What does a clinical immunologist do? – Tasks and work environment
A clinical immunologist works with diagnosis, treatment, and investigation of immune system diseases. Tasks include analyzing patient samples, interpreting immunological test results, and developing treatment strategies for conditions such as allergies, autoimmune diseases, and immunodeficiencies. Many clinical immunologists are also involved in research, supervising medical colleagues, and developing new laboratory methods. The work environment is often hospital-based, with close collaboration with other specialists, biomedical analysts, and laboratory staff. The role requires a combination of clinical experience, laboratory knowledge, and a scientific approach.
Salary development over time
The salary for clinical immunologists has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month, which increased to 92 200 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary further rose to 93 600, representing a salary increase of approximately 8.3% over the three-year period. This development reflects both increased demand for immunology specialists and the general salary level for highly specialized medical professions. The salary increase can also be linked to the growing importance of immunological competence in healthcare and the need to attract experienced specialists to both clinical practice and research.
Immunologist, clinical salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 84,600 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
- Highest salary: 110,600 SEK/month (male, public sector, postgraduate education 3+ years)
- Highest salary for women: 101,500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary for women: 91,200 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 563 SEK
- Gender pay gap: Women earn 98% of what men do (men: 94 300 SEK, women: 92 900 SEK)
Education and qualifications
To work as a clinical immunologist, a comprehensive educational background and specialist competence are required. The path begins with medical training, followed by internship (AT), specialist training (ST) in a relevant area, and further specialization in clinical immunology. Besides formal degrees, experience in laboratory work and research is highly valued, as well as the ability to collaborate clinically and an interest in scientific development.
- Medical degree: 5.5 years (basic education)
- Internship (AT): approximately 1.5–2 years
- Specialist training (ST) in clinical immunology: approximately 5 years
- Research experience: Doctorate (PhD) is common but not required
- Courses and certifications: Continuing education in immunology, laboratory methods, and clinical diagnostics
- Prerequisites: Medical license
Many clinical immunologists actively participate in research and development of new diagnostic methods, which often combines patient care with advanced laboratory work and scientific innovation.
Common benefits and compensations
Clinical immunologists are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, extra vacation days, professional development, and opportunities for research positions. Some employers also provide flexible working hours, wellness allowances, and access to specialist conferences. The salary structure can be complemented with on-call allowances and potential bonuses for research efforts.
Competitions and challenges
The demand for clinical immunologists is high, but the recruitment situation is characterized by a paradox: there are both recruitment difficulties and a certain proportion leaving the profession or working part-time. Competition for the most attractive positions can be intense, especially at university hospitals and research-intensive environments. The profession demands continuous further education and a scientific mindset. A challenge can be staying updated with rapid medical advances and new treatment methods. Workload and responsibility levels are also significant, requiring resilience and good teamwork skills.
Tips for those wanting to become an immunologist in clinical practice
To succeed as a clinical immunologist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with genuine curiosity about medical research. Early engagement in laboratory work and research projects provides valuable experience for specialist training. Precision is crucial, both in interpreting laboratory results and patient investigations. Good teamwork facilitates collaboration with other specialists and laboratory staff, while communication skills are important for supervising colleagues and engaging with patients. Being flexible and constantly updated on new research findings offers great advantages in this rapidly evolving field.
Key facts about Immunologist, clinical
- Education level: Specialist degree after at least 12 years of education
- Work environment: Hospitals, university hospitals, and advanced laboratories
- Work mode: Full-time, often with on-call and research components
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment and increasing needs
- Specialized knowledge: Immunological diagnostics and laboratory methods
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a clinical immunologist, there are opportunities to take leading roles in laboratory operations or research, such as medical director or research leader. Other career options include teaching at universities, participating in national expert groups, or working in the pharmaceutical industry. The Employment Service’s forecasts indicate that the job market for specialists is very good, with continued increasing demand over the next five years. Recruitment challenges in finding qualified personnel suggest strong career opportunities in the profession. As of May 2024, there were 375 job openings in the field.
Common questions about Immunologist, clinical
- What does a Clinical Immunologist earn?
- The average salary is 93 600 SEK/month, ranging between 84,600 SEK and 110,600 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
- How long is the education to become a clinical immunologist?
- About 12 years including basic education, internship, and specialization.
- Are there gender differences in salary?
- Yes, women earn approximately 98% of what men do in the profession.
- What are the most common workplaces?
- Hospitals, university hospitals, and specialized laboratories.
- What is the demand on the job market?
- Very good, with great opportunities for employment and increasing needs according to the Employment Service.
- What personal qualities are important?
- Accuracy, analytical skills, teamwork ability, and interest in research.
- What is the highest salary for a Clinical Immunologist?
- 110,600 SEK/month, usually within the public sector with extensive education.
