How much does a Researcher, microbiology make

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  2. Researcher, microbiology
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Researcher, microbiology

49 100 kr

Cell and molecular biologists etc.

41 600 - 52 100 kr / month

Women earn 89% of what men do.

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What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Researcher, microbiology

Average salary 49 100 kr
Males 52 100 kr
Females 46 400 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 17 Vacant jobs ->

What does a microbiology researcher do? – Tasks and work environment

A microbiology researcher investigates microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa using advanced laboratory methods. Tasks include planning and conducting experiments, analyzing results, and reporting research findings in scientific articles or to partners. Many microbiologists work at universities, government agencies, hospitals, or the pharmaceutical industry. The work environment is characterized by laboratory work, teamwork, and sometimes teaching. The profession requires precision, analytical skills, and an interest in solving complex biological problems.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for microbiology researchers have steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 44,700 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 46 700 SEK in 2023, representing a roughly 4.5% increase. Between 2023 and 2024, the trend continued with a new average salary of 49 100 SEK – an increase of an additional 5.1%. Salary development is mainly driven by increased demand for specialized skills in biomedicine, drug development, and food safety, as well as general salary improvements in academic and research-related jobs. Regional differences and access to research funding can also influence salary levels locally.

Researcher, microbiology salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 49 100 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
  • Average salary for women: 46 400 SEK/month (89% of men's salary)
  • Average salary for men: 52,100 SEK/month
  • Regional differences: Data varies, but salary levels can be higher in metropolitan areas and near larger research centers.

Education and qualifications

To work as a microbiology researcher, a long academic education is usually required, often culminating in a master's or doctoral degree in microbiology, cell biology, biomedicine, or related fields. Many employers also value research experience, publications in scientific journals, and practical laboratory skills. Specialized courses and certifications can improve job prospects.

  • Formal degree: Master's (5 years) or PhD (approx. 8 years) in microbiology or related field
  • Practical experience: Research experience, often through thesis work or doctoral projects
  • Courses: Specialization in molecular biology, genetics, or bioinformatics
  • Prerequisites: Science-oriented high school education and a bachelor's degree
  • Merits: Publications, international experience, and participation in scientific conferences

Microbiological research is often interdisciplinary and involves collaboration with doctors, chemists, data analysts, and engineers. It opens opportunities for exciting projects and innovations across disciplines.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Researches in microbiology are usually offered occupational pensions, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and sometimes subsidized lunches. Other common benefits include professional development, conference travel, and access to advanced laboratory equipment. Employment in academia may also include holiday benefits and overtime compensation according to collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The job market for microbiology researchers is competitive, especially for permanent positions within academia where the number of doctoral students often exceeds the number of associate professorships and research positions. In industry and government agencies, competition may be less, but higher demands are placed on specialization and project management. Funding for research projects is a recurring challenge, as is the need for continuous publishing and staying updated with the latest research. Additional challenges include global competition and rapid technological advances requiring ongoing skills development.

Tips for those wishing to become a microbiology researcher

To succeed as a microbiology researcher, it is good to be curious and highly motivated to understand complex biological processes. Precision is crucial for conducting experiments and analyzing data reliably, so early training in laboratory work is recommended. Collaboration skills are important, as many research projects are team-based and often international. The ability to communicate results, both orally and in writing, increases chances of publishing and obtaining research funding. Participating in international conferences and networking can provide valuable contacts and insights. Flexibility and perseverance are also essential, as the research process often involves setbacks and revisions before results are achieved.

Key facts about Researcher, microbiology

  • Education level: Master's or doctoral degree in microbiology or related fields
  • Work environment: Laboratory-based, often in interdisciplinary research teams
  • Typical employment: Permanent employment in academia, government, or industry
  • Demand: 143 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
  • Special skills: Molecular biology methods, data analysis, and scientific publishing

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a microbiology researcher can advance to roles such as project manager, research group leader, or specialist in a specific microbiological area. Many researchers also choose to move into industry, for example in pharmaceutical or biotech companies, where leadership opportunities exist. According to the Swedish Employment Service's forecasts, there is no specific assessment for microbiology researchers due to limited data, but there are 143 job openings in related fields. Digitalization and increased investment in biomedical research suggest continued demand for qualified microbiologists, especially in areas like antibiotic resistance and pandemic preparedness.

Common questions about Researcher, microbiology

  • What does a microbiology researcher earn?
    - The average salary is 49 100 SEK per month, but salaries vary depending on experience, education, and sector.
  • What are the gender differences in salary?
    - Men earn an average of 52,100 SEK, while women earn 46 400 SEK, which means women have 89% of men's salary.
  • What education is required to become a microbiology researcher?
    - A master's or doctoral degree in microbiology or a related field is generally required.
  • Are there regional salary differences?
    - Yes, salaries can be higher in major cities and near larger research centers.
  • What is the job market like?
    - There are 143 job openings within the profession, but competition for permanent academic positions is high.
  • What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
    - The highest salary is 52,100 SEK (male), and the lowest is 41,600 SEK (female, public sector).

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-11 00:45:06

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Researcher, microbiology is 52100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Multiple sectors with a unspecified education. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 50300 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Researcher, microbiology is 41600 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Public sector. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 42900 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 40700 kr 41000 kr
35-44 100% 45800 kr 45900 kr
45-54 98% 49900 kr 50300 kr
Snitt 89% 48900 kr 49100 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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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, microbiology has the SSYK code 2131, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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