- Salary statistics
- Researcher, biotechnology salary
Researcher, biotechnology salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
42 500 - 50 400 SEK / month
Women earn 100% of what men do.
Naturvetenskapligt arbete
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Salary progression Researcher, biotechnology
What does a researcher in biotechnology do? – Tasks and work environment
A researcher in biotechnology works on developing and applying biological processes to solve problems in areas such as medicine, environment, and industry. Tasks include experimental research, analysis of cells and molecules, and development of new biotechnological methods and products. The work is often conducted in laboratories with advanced equipment, but may also involve project management, report writing, and collaboration with other researchers and external partners. The work environment is characterized by high demands for accuracy, safety, and documentation, while offering great opportunities for innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Salary development over time
Salaries for researchers in biotechnology have shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 44,700 SEK per month, which increased to 49 100 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 48 100 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 10% over three years. This salary trend reflects an increased demand for qualified expertise in biotechnology, driven by rapid advances in areas such as genetic engineering, drug development, and sustainability innovations. Despite some variation between sectors and regions, the trend shows that biotech researchers remain an attractive profession with good prospects for salary improvements, especially for those with specialized skills and experience.
Biotech researcher salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 48 100 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 41,600 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Highest salary: 52,100 SEK/month (male, various sectors, unspecified education level)
- Hourly wage: 295 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
- Gender differences: Women earn 100% of what men do (women: 48 000 SEK, men: 52,100 SEK)
- Regional differences: No detailed statistics available
Education and qualifications
To work as a researcher in biotechnology, a solid academic background is required, typically at least a master's or doctoral degree in biotechnology, molecular biology, or related fields. The educational path is often long and includes both theoretical and practical components, where laboratory experience and the ability to work independently are highly valued. Many employers also seek international experience or specialized courses in areas such as genetics, bioinformatics, or cell culture.
- Formal degree: Master’s (5 years) or doctoral (8 years) in biotechnology/molecular biology
- Internship/Trainee: Common during education, often in collaboration with research institutions
- Certifications/courses: Specializations in areas like genetic engineering, bioinformatics, or GMP laboratories
- Prerequisites: Science-oriented high school education, basic laboratory skills
- Tips for choosing: International experience and doctoral studies can provide competitive advantages
Many biotech researchers work in close-knit, international teams where projects are often conducted across borders. The ability to collaborate and communicate in English is therefore almost always a requirement, and it is common for researchers to change countries or institutions several times during their career.
Common benefits and compensations
Researchers in biotechnology are often offered generous benefits such as flexible working hours, wellness allowances, opportunities for remote work, and professional development through conferences and courses. Occupational pension, extra vacation days, and insurance are common, especially for employment at universities, research institutes, or large pharmaceutical companies.
Competition and challenges
The competition for research positions in biotechnology can be intense, especially at the most attractive research institutions and in larger cities. At the same time, there is a growing need for specialists in new technological areas, opening doors for those with the right skills. Challenges often include pressure to publish research results, secure research funding, and stay updated in a rapidly evolving field. Long-term projects and requirements for international mobility can also be demanding, but they offer opportunities for exciting collaborations and career development.
Tips for those who want to become a researcher in biotechnology
To succeed as a researcher in biotechnology, it is good to combine analytical skills with curiosity and perseverance. Engaging early in research projects and laboratory work during studies provides invaluable practical experience and strengthens problem-solving abilities. Precision is crucial, especially in experiments and documentation, while good teamwork skills facilitate work in interdisciplinary teams. Being communicative and willing to seek international opportunities can open doors to exciting projects and new networks. Finally, it is important to be flexible and prepared to continuously learn, as the biotech field develops very quickly.
Key facts about researchers in biotechnology
- Education level: Master’s or doctoral degree in biotechnology/molecular biology
- Work environment: Laboratories, research institutes, and universities
- Work form: Full-time, often project-based and international collaboration
- Demand: 143 job openings in the profession (May 2024)
- Gender wage gap: Women earn 100% of men's average salary
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a researcher in biotechnology, opportunities exist to advance to leading roles such as project manager, research director, or specialist in areas like drug development or bioinformatics. Some choose to continue in academia with a focus on teaching and supervision, while others move into industry or government agencies. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, there is no detailed assessment for the profession due to limited data, but the overall demand for cell and molecular biologists remains stable. The number of available positions indicates good opportunities for qualified candidates, especially in new technological fields and specialized research areas.
Frequently asked questions about researchers in biotechnology
- What does a researcher in biotechnology earn?
- The average salary is 48 100 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, sector, and region. - How to become a researcher in biotechnology?
- Most commonly, by obtaining a master’s or doctoral degree in biotechnology or related fields. - Are there gender differences in salary for researchers in biotechnology?
- Yes, women earn on average 100% of what men do in the profession. - Which workplaces hire researchers in biotechnology?
- Universities, research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech firms are common employers. - What are the future prospects for researchers in biotechnology?
- The outlook is stable with many available jobs, but competition for attractive positions is high. - What benefits are common for researchers in biotechnology?
- Flexible working hours, wellness allowances, professional development, and occupational pension are common. - Can you work internationally as a researcher in biotechnology?
- Yes, international collaborations and exchanges are very common in the profession.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 42000 kr | 42200 kr | |
| 35-44 | 101% | 47000 kr | 47400 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 51400 kr | 51800 kr |
| 55-64 | 55000 kr | 55700 kr | |
| Snitt | 100% | 47700 kr | 48100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 40800 kr | 41000 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 43800 kr | 43900 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 47600 kr | 47700 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 50000 kr | 50100 kr |
| 65-68 | 121% | 52100 kr | 52100 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 45500 kr | 45700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 40800 kr | 41000 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 43800 kr | 43900 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 47600 kr | 47700 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 50000 kr | 50100 kr |
| 65-68 | 121% | 52100 kr | 52100 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 45500 kr | 45700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 49800 kr | 50500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 49800 kr | 50500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 35-44 | 101% | 46900 kr | 47000 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 52000 kr | 52700 kr |
| Snitt | 100% | 47900 kr | 48100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 41600 kr | 41600 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 43900 kr | 44100 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 47900 kr | 48000 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 50900 kr | 50900 kr |
| 65-68 | 121% | 49500 kr | 49500 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 46000 kr | 46100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 41600 kr | 41600 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 43900 kr | 44100 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 47900 kr | 48000 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 50900 kr | 50900 kr |
| 65-68 | 121% | 49500 kr | 49500 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 46000 kr | 46100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 41700 kr | 41900 kr | |
| 35-44 | 101% | 47100 kr | 47600 kr |
| 45-54 | 97% | 51100 kr | 51300 kr |
| Snitt | 100% | 47500 kr | 48000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 40100 kr | 40400 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 43600 kr | 43800 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 47300 kr | 47400 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 49000 kr | 49000 kr |
| 65-68 | 121% | 59900 kr | 59900 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 45100 kr | 45300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 97% | 40100 kr | 40400 kr |
| 35-44 | 99% | 43600 kr | 43800 kr |
| 45-54 | 99% | 47300 kr | 47400 kr |
| 55-64 | 96% | 49000 kr | 49000 kr |
| 65-68 | 121% | 59900 kr | 59900 kr |
| Snitt | 98% | 45100 kr | 45300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 49600 kr | 50400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 49600 kr | 50400 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Researcher, biotechnology has the SSYK code 2131, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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