What does a researcher in nursing do? – Tasks and work environment
A researcher in nursing conducts scientific studies focusing on developing and improving care and treatment, often aiming to enhance patients' quality of life and increase efficiency in healthcare. Tasks include designing research projects, collecting and analyzing data, and publishing results in scientific journals. The work is usually carried out in collaboration with other researchers, healthcare staff, and sometimes patients. The work environment is often based at universities, colleges, or research institutions, but may also include practical tasks within healthcare services.
Salary development over time
The salary for researchers in nursing has increased steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,100 SEK per month, while in 2023 it rose to 44 000 SEK. For 2024, the average salary is 45 500 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 8% over three years. This trend reflects a generally high demand for qualified research expertise within the healthcare sector, as employers compete for experienced researchers with specialized skills. The salary increase may also be linked to an increased focus on evidence-based care and the need to attract researchers with advanced education and proven experience. Despite the growth, gender pay gaps remain small, with women earning about 98% of what men do within the profession.
Researchers in nursing salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 45 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary (men): 43,100 SEK
- Lowest salary (women): 43,200 SEK
- Highest salary (men): 58,600 SEK
- Highest salary (women): 52,600 SEK
- Hourly wage (average): 274 SEK
- Gender pay gap: Women earn 98% of men's salary
- Regional differences: Specific data is lacking, but variations may occur depending on workplace and region.
Education and qualifications
To work as a researcher in nursing, an advanced university degree in health sciences is generally required, often followed by doctoral studies. Many have a background as licensed nurses and have further specialized at master's, magister's, or doctoral levels. In addition to formal education, experience in clinical work and participation in research projects are important merits.
- Licensed nurse degree: 3 years
- Master's or magister's degree in nursing: 1–2 years
- Research training (doctoral level): 4 years
- Experience in clinical work: often a requirement
- Courses in research methodology and ethics: recommended
Researchers in nursing have a unique opportunity to influence the future of healthcare by combining clinical experience with scientific methods. Many projects are conducted in interdisciplinary teams, opening up collaboration across professions and providing great variation in tasks. Working in this role often involves shaping new guidelines and improving patients' everyday lives in a very tangible way.
Common benefits and compensations
Researchers in nursing are often offered competitive benefits such as occupational pension, generous wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences. Many employers also provide flexible working hours, support for further education, and the possibility to work partly remotely, especially at universities and research centers.
Competition and challenges
The competition for research positions in nursing is relatively high, especially at universities and larger research institutes where application pressure is often intense. Challenges may include securing research funding, managing publication requirements, and maintaining high quality in clinical connections. Since the profession is narrow and recruitment needs vary, it can sometimes be difficult to find the right position, especially for recent graduates. Limited data on future forecasts makes it hard to predict exact demand, but there is a stable base with available positions in the field.
Tips for those wishing to become researchers in nursing
To succeed as a researcher in nursing, it is good to combine curiosity with analytical skills and a solid scientific foundation. Patience and systematic work facilitate when research projects take longer or encounter unexpected obstacles. Good collaboration skills are crucial, as much work is done in teams and in dialogue with colleagues and patients. Initiative and independence help drive your own research ideas forward, while strong communication skills are important for presenting and disseminating research results clearly.
Key facts about Researchers in nursing
- Education level: Doctoral or master's degree required
- Work environment: Universities, colleges, and research institutes
- Typical work form: Project-based and interdisciplinary
- Available positions: 375 within the profession (May 2024)
- Gender distribution: Small differences, women earn 98% of men's salary
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession as a researcher in nursing, it is common to undertake more advanced research projects, supervise doctoral students, or participate in the development of new educational programs. Career paths can also lead to leadership roles within research groups, clinical development projects, or work as experts within authorities and international organizations. Projections from the Swedish Public Employment Service are uncertain due to limited data, but with 375 available jobs in the profession, there are signs of continued demand. The job market is expected to remain stable, especially for those with documented research competence and experience in clinical work.
Common questions about Researchers in nursing
- What does a researcher in nursing earn?
- The average salary is 45 500 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and workplace.
- How does one become a researcher in nursing?
- The path goes via a nursing degree, master's or magister's, and often doctoral studies in nursing.
- Which workplaces hire researchers in nursing?
- Common workplaces are universities, colleges, research institutes, and sometimes larger hospitals.
- Are there regional salary differences?
- Regional differences exist, but detailed statistics are lacking for this profession.
- What is the gender pay gap?
- Women earn 98% of men's salaries within the profession.
- What is the job market like?
- There are 375 available jobs within the profession, but future forecasts are uncertain.
- What is the highest salary for a researcher in nursing?
- The highest salary is 58,600 SEK for men and 52,600 SEK for women.
