Experimental techniques, animals

What does a laboratory technician within animal research do – tasks and work environment

An animal research technician primarily assists with and conducts animal experiments within research or pharmaceutical development. Tasks include caring for laboratory animals, documenting experiments, sampling, and monitoring animal health and welfare. The environment is often laboratory-based or connected to universities and research institutions, where precision and ethics regarding animal welfare are central to daily work. Collaboration with researchers, veterinarians, and other technicians is common, and the work environment demands responsibility and good communication skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for animal research technicians has varied slightly over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,000 SEK per month, increasing in 2023 to 27 800 SEK. In 2024, however, the average salary has decreased to 26 300 SEK, which is approximately a 5.4% decline compared to the previous year. This decrease may be due to changes in demand, redistribution of tasks, or altered employment conditions within the industry. Overall, salaries within the profession have been relatively stable, but clear differences exist depending on education level, sector, and region. Higher education and experience tend to result in somewhat better salary development, especially for privately employed workers with post-secondary education.

Animal research technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 26 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,100 SEK (women), 25,400 SEK (men)
• Highest salary: 28,000 SEK (women), 27,500 SEK (men)
• Hourly wage: 158 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 26 300 SEK (salary data for men is missing for the average)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and sector

Education and qualifications

Animal research technicians usually have a high school education in natural sciences or animal care, but many employers also require post-secondary studies in biology, animal experiments, or laboratory technology. Practical experience and certifications in animal research are often advantageous, and knowledge of ethical regulations related to working with experimental animals is important. Success in the profession requires both technical skill and precision.

• High school education: Natural sciences program with specialization in animal care (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Short courses or university programs in biomedicine, animal research, or laboratory technology
• Certifications: Approved training in animal research ethics (according to Swedish legislation)
• Internship: Internship at a research institution or laboratory is strongly recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of biology and animal husbandry

Common benefits and compensations

Animal research technicians are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, and paid training. Opportunities for skill development are common, as well as access to occupational health services and sometimes additional insurance coverage for work with animals. Employment in the public sector may also include more vacation days and favorable working hours.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as animal research technicians varies by region and specialization, but there is generally a steady demand for qualified technicians in research and pharmaceutical development. Challenges often include staying updated with new laws and ethical guidelines, as well as handling demanding tasks with significant responsibility for animal welfare. Since many projects are research-based, workload can fluctuate, requiring flexibility to adapt to different research environments. Additional challenges may arise when working on international projects, where language skills and understanding of different regulations are important.

Tips for those wanting to become an animal research technician

To succeed as an animal research technician, attention to detail is crucial, as all tasks require precision and adherence to ethical rules. Engagement during education and internships provides valuable experience and increases employment chances. A genuine interest in animals combined with resilience helps manage daily routines and urgent situations. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with researchers and colleagues, while the ability to quickly acquire new knowledge is essential to keep up with developments in the field. Consider obtaining certification in animal research ethics early, and proactively seek internships at universities or research laboratories. Finally, flexibility and adaptability are important, as tasks and research projects can vary greatly over time.

Key facts about animal research technicians

• Education level: High school or post-secondary education in natural sciences, biomedicine, or laboratory technology
• Work environment: Laboratories, research institutions, and universities
• Typical employment: Full-time, sometimes shifts or irregular hours
• Demand: 360 job openings in Sweden according to current statistics
• Special skills: Animal research ethics and laboratory techniques

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an animal research technician, opportunities exist to advance to more specialized roles, such as laboratory coordinator, research assistant, or animal research ethics advisor. Further education in biomedicine or animal research can also open doors to managerial positions or roles within the pharmaceutical industry. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate continued stable demand for the profession, especially within research and higher education, where the need for qualified animal personnel is high. Increasing research projects and stricter animal welfare requirements are expected to keep the profession relevant in the long term.

Common questions about animal research technicians

• What does an animal research technician earn?
  - The average salary is 26 300 SEK per month, with variations depending on education, experience, and sector.
• What education is required to become an animal research technician?
  - High school education in natural sciences or animal care, as well as post-secondary courses in biomedicine or laboratory techniques, are recommended.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Women earn on average 26 300 SEK. The highest and lowest salaries differ slightly between genders.
• How is the job market for animal research technicians?
  - Currently, there are 360 job openings in Sweden, indicating good demand.
• What are the most common workplaces?
  - Most often laboratories and research institutions, frequently linked to universities or pharmaceutical companies.
• What are the biggest challenges in the profession?
  - Working ethically with experimental animals, keeping up with legislation, and managing fluctuating workloads.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, further education in biomedicine, laboratory techniques, or animal research ethics is common and can lead to more qualified roles.