How much does a Pharmaceutical researchers make

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  2. Pharmaceutical researchers
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Pharmaceutical researchers

65 600 kr

Pharmacologists and biomedical scientists

40 500 - 76 400 kr / month

Women earn 88% of what men do.

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Salary progression Pharmaceutical researchers

Average salary 65 600 kr
Males 72 200 kr
Females 63 600 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 12 Vacant jobs ->

What does a Pharmaceutical Researcher do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Pharmaceutical Researcher works on developing, analyzing, and improving medicines and pharmaceuticals to treat various diseases and conditions. Tasks often include laboratory work, clinical studies, and advanced data analysis. Research can take place both in academia and the private sector, such as at pharmaceutical companies or research institutes. The work environment is high-tech and characterized by interdisciplinary collaborations, where both independent work and teamwork are essential for success.

Salary Development Over Time

Pharmaceutical Researchers have experienced clear salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 59,400 SEK per month, which increased to 56 100 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 65 600, representing an increase of approximately 10% from the previous year. The salary increase can be explained by increased demand for advanced skills in pharmacology and biomedicine, as well as the growing need for new medicines globally. The market has also been influenced by technological advances and increased focus on research within the pharmaceutical industry, further driving up salary levels for qualified researchers.

Pharmaceutical Researcher Salary – Complete Overview

  • Average salary: 65 600 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, private sector employee)
  • Highest salary: 76,400 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
  • Hourly wage: 395 SEK
  • Women: 63 600 SEK/month
  • Men: 72 200 SEK/month
  • Women earn: 88% of what men do

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Pharmaceutical Researcher, a long academic education in science is required, often with a degree in pharmacology, biomedicine, chemistry, or related fields. The profession's high specialization requirements mean many also hold a research degree, such as a doctorate. Practical experience in laboratory settings and clinical studies is highly meritorious.

  • Formal degree: Master's or doctoral degree in pharmacology, biomedicine, or chemistry (5–8 years)
  • Certifications: Courses in GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) and GCP (Good Clinical Practice) are often advantageous
  • Internships: Laboratory internships and/or trainee programs during studies
  • Prerequisites: Science-focused high school, often with specialization in biology or chemistry
  • Tips for choosing: International experience and project work can increase employability

Interdisciplinary collaboration is central for pharmaceutical researchers – chemists, biologists, data scientists, and medical professionals often work closely together to solve complex problems and develop new treatments. This breadth provides unique career opportunities for those who enjoy thinking outside their own specialty.

– statsskuld.se

Common Benefits and Compensation

Pharmaceutical Researchers are often offered generous benefits beyond salary, such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for remote work. Continuing education, conference travel, access to advanced equipment, and health and wellness support are common. Some employers may also offer bonuses and extra vacation days.

Competition and Challenges

Competition for positions as a Pharmaceutical Researcher can be intense, particularly within the most attractive research environments and at international pharmaceutical companies. The requirements for formal education and experience are extensive, and high expectations are placed on analytical skills and innovation. The profession's development is also influenced by rapid technological advances and regulatory changes, which may necessitate continuous skills development. However, individuals with broad expertise and international experience have good opportunities, provided they maintain a strong network and stay updated with knowledge.

Tips for Aspiring Pharmaceutical Researchers

To succeed as a Pharmaceutical Researcher, it is important to be goal-oriented and curious, as the profession requires a constant pursuit of new knowledge and solutions. Developing analytical skills is crucial, as complex data and experiments need to be interpreted and translated into tangible results. Collaboration and communication skills facilitate work in interdisciplinary projects and international teams. A strong drive to stay current with the latest research and technological developments makes it easier to stay ahead in the role. Finally, precision and patience are vital, as the research process is often lengthy and filled with challenges.

Key Facts About Pharmaceutical Researchers

  • Educational level: Master's or doctoral degree in science
  • Work environment: Laboratory-based with high-tech equipment
  • Typical work form: Full-time, sometimes project-based
  • Demand: 143 job openings within the field
  • Gender salary gap: Women earn 88% of men's salaries

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as a Pharmaceutical Researcher, opportunities exist to advance to project manager, specialist in areas such as clinical trials or regulatory affairs, or to leadership roles in research and development. Other options include working in drug development at global companies or transitioning to academic research and teaching. According to the latest forecast from the Employment Service, no specific assessment has been made for the profession due to limited data, but the high education level and growing need for new medicines suggest continued good prospects. Currently, there are 143 job openings in pharmacology and biomedicine, indicating a stable job market.

Common Questions About Pharmaceutical Researchers

  • What is the average salary of a Pharmaceutical Researcher?
    - The average salary for a Pharmaceutical Researcher is 65 600 SEK per month.
  • What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Pharmaceutical Researcher?
    - The highest salary is 76,400 SEK and the lowest is 40,500 SEK per month.
  • What education is required to become a Pharmaceutical Researcher?
    - A master’s or doctoral degree in pharmacology, biomedicine, or chemistry is usually required.
  • Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
    - Yes, women earn 88% of what men do in the profession.
  • What are the future prospects for Pharmaceutical Researchers?
    - The outlook is uncertain due to limited data, but the job market is considered stable with 143 job openings in the field.
  • What work environments are common for Pharmaceutical Researchers?
    - Laboratories, research institutes, and pharmaceutical companies are the most common workplaces.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-12 23:41:15

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Pharmaceutical researchers is 76400 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a unspecified education. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 67600 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Pharmaceutical researchers is 40500 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Privately employed workers. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 42800 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 45600 kr 46200 kr
35-44 64100 kr 65700 kr
45-54 72600 kr 75200 kr
55-64 72500 kr 75800 kr
Snitt 88% 63700 kr 65600 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 Pharmaceutical researchers has the SSYK code 2133, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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