- Salary statistics
- Researchers, medicines salary
Researchers, medicines salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
43 100 - 75 900 SEK / month
Women earn 96% of what men do.
Naturvetenskapligt arbete
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Salary progression Researchers, medicines
What does a researcher in pharmaceuticals do? – Tasks and work environment
A researcher in pharmaceuticals works on developing, analyzing, and improving medicines and medical products. Tasks often include laboratory work, planning and conducting experiments, data collection, and evaluating results. Documentation for regulatory purposes and collaboration with experts in pharmacology, toxicology, and clinical trials are also common. The work environment is usually laboratory-based with high demands for accuracy, safety, and documentation, but researchers may also participate in international collaborations and present their findings at conferences.
Salary development over time
The profession of a researcher in pharmaceuticals has experienced clear salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 59,400 SEK per month, rising to 65 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has increased significantly to 67 900 SEK per month, representing a salary increase of about 17 % from the previous year. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified researchers in the rapidly growing pharmaceutical industry, as well as a focus on advanced research and innovation. Competition for well-educated personnel in biomedical research has also contributed to rising salary levels. The trend indicates that the profession continues to be highly valued by employers, especially in the private sector.
Researcher in pharmaceuticals salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 67 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month
- Highest salary: 76,400 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 395 SEK
- Women earn: 96 % of men's salary (67 200 SEK/month for women, 70 100 SEK/month for men)
- Regional differences: No data available
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a researcher in pharmaceuticals typically involves a long university education in science, often with specialization in pharmacology, chemistry, biomedicine, or similar fields. After a bachelor's degree, doctoral studies are usually required, often including international experience and specialized courses. Practical laboratory experience and involvement in research projects are crucial for success in the role.
- Master's or bachelor's degree in pharmacology, chemistry, or biomedicine (5 years)
- Doctorate (PhD) in a relevant field (additional 4–5 years)
- Internships or trainee programs in the pharmaceutical industry or academia
- Prerequisites: Science foundation courses, mathematics, biology, and chemistry
- Further education: Courses in statistics, regulatory processes, and project management
Researchers in pharmaceuticals often work in interdisciplinary teams where communication and collaboration with experts from various fields are essential. Many projects also involve international cooperation, providing great opportunities for networking and exchanges abroad.
Common benefits and compensations
Researchers in pharmaceuticals are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, extra vacation days, and opportunities for skills development. Some employers also provide bonus schemes, flexible working hours, and access to modern laboratories and equipment. The extent of benefits varies depending on the employer and employment type.
Competition and challenges
The profession of a researcher in pharmaceuticals is attractive, but competition for the most qualified positions is high. Requirements for formal education and experience are extensive, and the job market is influenced by economic fluctuations and research funding. Challenges include long project cycles, high responsibility for results, and the need to continuously update knowledge in rapidly evolving research fields. Success requires perseverance, precision, and teamwork skills. Despite these challenges, there are good opportunities for those with the right skills and commitment.
Tips for aspiring researchers in pharmaceuticals
To succeed as a researcher in pharmaceuticals, being curious, analytical, and solution-oriented is beneficial. Building a strong foundation in science during high school increases the chances of further studies. It is also wise to seek summer jobs or internships in laboratory environments to gain practical experience and network in the industry. Being meticulous and methodical helps with experiments and documentation, while an interest in collaboration fosters development in teams and international projects. Flexibility and patience are important qualities, as research results often require long-term dedication. Keeping up with the latest research and taking relevant courses provides an advantage when applying for jobs.
Key facts about researchers in pharmaceuticals
- Educational level: Usually a PhD
- Work environment: Laboratory-based, often international
- Typical employment: Full-time, project-based
- Demand: 143 available jobs in Sweden (2024)
- Special skills: Advanced laboratory techniques and regulatory knowledge
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a researcher in pharmaceuticals can advance to leadership roles such as project manager, senior researcher, or specialist in areas like clinical trials or regulatory affairs. It is also common to transition into the pharmaceutical industry, biotech companies, or government agencies. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, there is no detailed assessment for this specific role, but the industry is characterized by high demand for qualified personnel, as indicated by the 143 available positions in the field. Digitalization, new treatment methods, and increased globalization are expected to continue driving the need for skilled researchers in the future.
Common questions about researchers in pharmaceuticals
- What is the salary of a researcher in pharmaceuticals?
- The average salary is 67 900 SEK/month, but it varies between 40,500 SEK and 76,400 SEK depending on experience, gender, and employer. - Are there significant salary differences between genders?
- Yes, women earn on average 96 % of men's salaries within the profession. - What education is required to become a researcher in pharmaceuticals?
- Usually a master's degree followed by a doctorate in pharmacology, chemistry, biomedicine, or similar fields. - What is the job market like?
- There are 143 available jobs in the profession, but competition for qualified positions is high. - What tasks does a researcher in pharmaceuticals perform?
- Main tasks include drug development, laboratory work, analysis, and documentation. - What benefits are offered in this profession?
- Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness contributions, flexible working hours, and skills development. - Are there regional salary differences?
- No data available about regional differences for this profession.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 92% | 51200 kr | 51300 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 67300 kr | 68400 kr |
| 45-54 | 73500 kr | 75200 kr | |
| 55-64 | 79200 kr | 80800 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 66800 kr | 67900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 42100 kr | 42100 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 45000 kr | 45000 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 47700 kr | 47700 kr |
| 55-64 | 83% | 48300 kr | 48500 kr |
| 65-68 | 60400 kr | 60500 kr | |
| Snitt | 95% | 46600 kr | 46600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 42100 kr | 42100 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 45000 kr | 45000 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 47700 kr | 47700 kr |
| 55-64 | 83% | 48300 kr | 48500 kr |
| 65-68 | 60400 kr | 60500 kr | |
| Snitt | 95% | 46600 kr | 46600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 51500 kr | 51500 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 68200 kr | 69400 kr |
| 45-54 | 74600 kr | 76300 kr | |
| 55-64 | 82000 kr | 83800 kr | |
| Snitt | 94% | 67800 kr | 68900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 51500 kr | 51500 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 68200 kr | 69400 kr |
| 45-54 | 74600 kr | 76300 kr | |
| 55-64 | 82000 kr | 83800 kr | |
| Snitt | 94% | 67800 kr | 68900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 92% | 54500 kr | 54500 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 67700 kr | 68600 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 69500 kr | 70100 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 42600 kr | 42600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 45800 kr | 45800 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 46700 kr | 46700 kr |
| 55-64 | 83% | 53900 kr | 53900 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 47900 kr | 47900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 42600 kr | 42600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 45800 kr | 45800 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 46700 kr | 46700 kr |
| 55-64 | 83% | 53900 kr | 53900 kr |
| Snitt | 95% | 47900 kr | 47900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 55100 kr | 55100 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 69500 kr | 70500 kr |
| Snitt | 94% | 71200 kr | 71900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 55100 kr | 55100 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 69500 kr | 70500 kr |
| Snitt | 94% | 71200 kr | 71900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 92% | 50100 kr | 50200 kr |
| 35-44 | 100% | 67200 kr | 68300 kr |
| 45-54 | 71300 kr | 73200 kr | |
| 55-64 | 79400 kr | 81400 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 65900 kr | 67200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 41600 kr | 41600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 44400 kr | 44400 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 48300 kr | 48300 kr |
| 55-64 | 83% | 44400 kr | 44600 kr |
| 65-68 | 61400 kr | 61400 kr | |
| Snitt | 95% | 45600 kr | 45700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 98% | 41600 kr | 41600 kr |
| 35-44 | 97% | 44400 kr | 44400 kr |
| 45-54 | 103% | 48300 kr | 48300 kr |
| 55-64 | 83% | 44400 kr | 44600 kr |
| 65-68 | 61400 kr | 61400 kr | |
| Snitt | 95% | 45600 kr | 45700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 50200 kr | 50300 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 67900 kr | 69000 kr |
| 45-54 | 72000 kr | 74000 kr | |
| 55-64 | 81900 kr | 84100 kr | |
| Snitt | 94% | 66700 kr | 67900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 91% | 50200 kr | 50300 kr |
| 35-44 | 98% | 67900 kr | 69000 kr |
| 45-54 | 72000 kr | 74000 kr | |
| 55-64 | 81900 kr | 84100 kr | |
| Snitt | 94% | 66700 kr | 67900 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 Researchers, medicines has the SSYK code 2133, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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