How much does a Researcher, political science make

  1. Salary statistics
  2. Researcher, political science
Image that illustrates Researcher, political science

Researcher, political science

46 000 kr

Archaeologists and specialists in humanities etc.

41 100 - 52 100 kr / month

Women earn 97% of what men do.

Administration, ekonomi

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Researcher, political science

Average salary 46 000 kr
Males 46 600 kr
Females 45 300 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 6 Vacant jobs ->

What does a researcher in political science do? – Tasks and work environment

A researcher in political science analyzes and investigates political systems, institutions, and processes at local, national, or international levels. Tasks often include planning and conducting scientific studies, collecting and processing data, and publishing research results in scientific journals or reports. Many political science researchers also teach at universities and participate in societal debates or provide advice to authorities and organizations. The work environment is characterized by high independence, a fast-paced intellectual rhythm, and extensive computer work, often in office or university settings.

Salary development over time

The salary for political science researchers has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, increasing to 43 300 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 46 000 SEK per month, corresponding to an increase of about 7% over three years. This growth can partly be explained by increased competition for research funding, higher educational requirements, and a more qualified job market. The demand for researchers in social sciences, especially political science, has grown in line with societal issues and political analysis gaining greater importance in public debate and decision-making. The salary increase has been slightly higher than inflation and reflects the profession’s increased complexity and responsibility.

Political science researcher salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 46 000 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 41,100 SEK/month (men), 42,000 SEK/month (women)
  • Highest salary: 52,100 SEK/month (men), 50,700 SEK/month (women)
  • Hourly wage: 277 SEK
  • Gender differences: Women earn 97% of what men do (46 600 SEK for men, 45 300 SEK for women)
  • Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

The path to a career as a political science researcher involves a lengthy academic education, usually with a master's degree followed by doctoral studies and a PhD. In addition to formal degrees, experience in scientific work, strong analytical skills, and familiarity with scientific publishing are often required. Internships in research projects and international exchanges can be advantageous and increase employment opportunities.

  • Master's degree in political science: 5 years (bachelor + master)
  • PhD: 4–5 years after master's
  • Research internship or assistant position: Recommended during or after studies
  • Strong ability in scientific analysis and academic writing: Basic requirements
  • International experience and networks: Meritorious

Many political science researchers are engaged not only in academic contexts but also contribute to societal debates, investigations, and political advising. This role often offers opportunities to influence important societal issues directly and bridge research and practice.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Researchers in political science are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, generous vacation conditions, and opportunities for research travel and international collaborations. Universities also provide professional development, flexible working hours, and access to research infrastructure. Additional allowances may be provided for participation in projects or assignments outside regular duties.

Competition and challenges

The competition for permanent positions as a political science researcher is high, especially within academia where the number of PhDs often exceeds available lecturer and professorship positions. Many start with temporary or project-based employment, which requires active pursuit of research funding. Challenges also include high demands for scientific publishing, international visibility, and the ability to communicate complex issues to different audiences. Success requires persistence and the ability to collaborate across disciplines.

Tips for aspiring political science researchers

To succeed as a political science researcher, it is important to combine curiosity with analytical ability and perseverance. Developing a habit of reading and writing scientific texts early, and participating in research projects during studies, is beneficial. Building international networks and applying for scholarships or exchanges can open doors to new research environments. Self-discipline greatly facilitates working on long-term projects and independent research, while communication skills help present results both within and outside academia. Flexibility and collaboration with researchers from other disciplines strengthen chances of success.

Key facts about Political Science Researchers

  • Education level: Doctorate recommended
  • Work environment: Universities, research institutes, and authorities
  • Work form: Independent and project-based
  • Demand: 758 available jobs in the profession
  • Special skills: Advanced methodological knowledge and political analysis

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a political science researcher, opportunities open to advance to lecturer, associate professor, or research leader within universities and colleges. Other career paths include policy work within authorities, international organizations, or think tanks. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate continued good demand within social sciences, but competition for academic positions remains high. For those combining academic expertise with experience from the public sector or international contexts, the job market is broader, especially in policy development and analysis.

Common questions about Political Science Researchers

  • What does a political science researcher earn?
    - A researcher in political science has an average salary of 46 000 SEK per month. The highest salary is 52 100 SEK and the lowest 41 100 SEK.
  • How to become a political science researcher?
    - The path involves a master's degree and doctoral studies in political science, often followed by postdoctoral positions.
  • Are there gender differences in salary?
    - Yes, women earn approximately 97% of what men do within the profession.
  • What are the most common workplaces?
    - Universities, colleges, research institutes, and government agencies are the main employers.
  • What is the job market like?
    - There are 758 available jobs within the profession, but competition for permanent positions is high.
  • Is a doctorate necessary to become a researcher?
    - A doctoral degree is usually a requirement for independent research and permanent employment as a researcher.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-11 00:58:48

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Researcher, political science is 52100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Public sector with a data missing. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 50700 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Researcher, political science is 41100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 42000 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 38500 kr 38600 kr
35-44 101% 45600 kr 45800 kr
45-54 101% 47200 kr 47300 kr
55-64 91% 47300 kr 47300 kr
Snitt 97% 45900 kr 46000 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
Register an account before you can comment

To write a comment you need to create an account.

Default Avatar

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, political science has the SSYK code 2623, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

Search salary statistics for occupation
8000 kr
<-|->
90000 kr
Vacant jobs
Show more
Similar occupations
Latest posts
  • Public Opinion - Opinion Poll Status Novus: Unchanged Support – Social Democrats Largest

    Public Opinion

    Opinion Poll Status Novus: Unchanged Support – Social Democrats Largest

    Wed, 19 Nov 2025 - 08:35
  • National Debt - The National Debt – Level, Development, and Significance for Sweden

    National Debt

    The National Debt – Level, Development, and Significance for Sweden

    Wed, 8 Oct 2025 - 08:00
Salary, Taxes, and Fees
Net salary 31 377
Net salary
31 377
Taxes
11 738
Fees
12 129

With our Swedish tax calculator, you can easily calculate your after-tax income (net salary).

Swedish Church Member

* Updated with 2025 taxes

Explore more topics