Hospital geneticist

What does a hospital geneticist do? – Tasks and work environment

Hospital geneticists work on investigating, diagnosing, and advising on hereditary diseases and genetic conditions within healthcare. Their tasks include laboratory work, where advanced DNA analyses and molecular genetic tests are performed, and patient contact, where results are communicated and genetic counseling is provided to patients and relatives. The role often involves collaboration in multidisciplinary teams consisting of doctors, biomedical analysts, and other specialists. The work environment is primarily clinical and laboratory-based, requiring high precision, strong analytical skills, and confidence in handling sensitive patient data.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for hospital geneticists have shown a stable and positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 44,700 SEK per month, increasing to 46 700 in 2023, which represents an increase of approximately 4.4%. Between 2023 and 2024, the average salary further rose to 49 100, an increase of 5.1%. The total salary increase over the three-year period is thus close to 9.8%. This development reflects a growing demand for specialist competence in medical genetics and an increased focus on personalized care and precision medicine. At the same time, educational requirements and technical expertise in the profession have become more extensive, contributing to higher salary levels.

Hospital geneticist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 49 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,600 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 52,100 SEK/month (male, various sectors, unspecified education level)
• Hourly wage: 295 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 46 400 SEK (89% of men's 52,100 SEK). Highest salary for women: 50,300 SEK. Lowest for men: 42,900 SEK.
• Regional differences: Specific regional salary differences are not documented, but variations may occur depending on location and employer.

Education and qualifications

To work as a hospital geneticist, a long and specialized educational path is required, typically with a university degree in biology, genetics, or equivalent. Many have completed a doctorate in a relevant field. Practical experience from laboratory work and clinical genetics is often a requirement, and additional training or certifications in molecular biology, bioinformatics, or medical genetics are advantageous.

• Formal degree: Bachelor's or master's degree in biology, genetics, or equivalent (5 years)
• Doctoral degree: Often a requirement, involving a dissertation in a relevant area (additional 4 years)
• Practical training: Clinical service/laboratory internship
• Certifications: Courses in molecular genetics, bioinformatics, or medical genetics
• Prerequisites: Scientific high school education

Common benefits and compensations

Employees as hospital geneticists are often offered benefits packages including occupational pension, wellness contributions, flexitime, and extra vacation days. Opportunities for professional development, participation in conferences, and research projects are common. In some regions, subsidized lunches or access to staff health services and further education support are also provided.

Competition and challenges

The profession of hospital geneticist is relatively niche, and competition for positions can be high, especially in metropolitan areas and at university hospitals. Since the job market is small and specialized, continuous further education and staying updated on new research and methods in genetics are essential. Technological advances and increased demands for digital skills, especially in bioinformatics, mean the role is evolving rapidly. The shortage of experienced specialists can be a challenge for employers, while quality and patient safety requirements are very high.

Tips for aspiring hospital geneticists

To succeed as a hospital geneticist, it is beneficial to have strong analytical skills and a genuine interest in natural sciences. Precision is crucial, as the work often involves interpreting complex genetic data where small mistakes can have significant consequences for patients. Being communicative and pedagogical is important, as results need to be clearly conveyed to colleagues and patients. Flexibility and a willingness to constantly learn new things facilitate adaptation, as the field develops quickly and new techniques are regularly introduced. Cooperation skills are also central, since most work is team-based and involves close contact with other healthcare professionals.

Key facts about hospital geneticists

• Average salary: 49 100 SEK/month
• Salary range: 41,600–52,100 SEK/month
• Gender differences: Women earn 89% of what men do
• Education level: Master’s or doctoral degree often required
• Job market: 143 available positions within the profession in Sweden

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a hospital geneticist, opportunities open for advancement to roles such as laboratory manager, research project leader, or specialist in clinical genetics. Some choose to pursue research careers or doctoral studies, while others move into university teaching or work in the pharmaceutical industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, no precise assessment of future prospects for hospital geneticists can be made due to limited data, but the demand for specialists in cell and molecular biology is generally considered stable, especially as precision medicine and genetic analyses become increasingly important in healthcare. Currently, there are 143 available positions in the field, indicating a healthy job market for well-educated and flexible professionals.

Frequently asked questions about hospital geneticists

• What does a hospital geneticist earn?
  - A hospital geneticist has an average salary of 49 100 SEK per month.
• What is the salary range for hospital geneticists?
  - The salary varies between 41,600 SEK and 52,100 SEK per month depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• How does one become a hospital geneticist?
  - The profession requires a master's or doctoral degree in biology, genetics, or similar, often with clinical practice.
• Is there a salary difference between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 89% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for hospital geneticists?
  - Demand is stable and there are 143 available positions within the profession.
• Which workplaces hire hospital geneticists?
  - Common employers include university hospitals, research laboratories, and specialized clinics.
• Is a doctoral degree necessary to work as a hospital geneticist?
  - It is common but not always a requirement. Practical experience and specialized training are highly advantageous.