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Medical Scientist

Medical scientists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health. They often use clinical trials and other investigative methods to reach their findings.

Medical scientists typically do the following:

• Design and conduct studies to investigate human diseases and methods to prevent and treat diseases
• Prepare and analyze data from medical samples and investigate causes and treatment of toxicity, pathogens, or chronic diseases
• Standardize drugs' potency, doses, and methods of administering to allow for their mass manufacturing and distribution
• Create and test medical devices
• Follow safety procedures, such as decontaminating workspaces
• Write research grant proposals and apply for funding from government agencies, private funding, and other sources
• Write articles for publication and present research findings

Medical scientists form hypotheses and develop experiments. They study the causes of diseases and other health problems in a variety of ways. For example, they may conduct clinical trials, working with licensed physicians to test treatments on patients who have agreed to participate in the study. They analyze data from the trial to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment.

Some medical scientists choose to write about and publish their findings in scientific journals after completion of the clinical trial. They also may have to present their findings in ways that nonscientist audiences understand.

Medical scientists often lead teams of technicians or students who perform support tasks. For example, a medical scientist may have assistants take measurements and make observations for the scientist’s research.

Medical scientists usually specialize in an area of research, with the goal of understanding and improving human health outcomes. The following are examples of types of medical scientists:

Clinical pharmacologists  research new drug therapies for health problems, such as seizure disorders and Alzheimer’s disease.

Medical pathologists   research the human body and tissues, such as how cancer progresses or how certain issues relate to genetics.

Toxicologists  study the negative impacts of chemicals and pollutants on human health.

Medical scientists conduct research to better understand disease or to develop breakthroughs in treatment. For information about an occupation that tracks and develops methods to prevent the spread of diseases, see the profile on epidemiologists.

Medical scientists held about 119,200 jobs in 2021. The largest employers of medical scientists were as follows:

Medical scientists typically work in offices and laboratories. In the lab, they sometimes work with dangerous biological samples and chemicals. They must take precautions in the lab to ensure safety, such as by wearing protective gloves, knowing the location of safety equipment, and keeping work areas neat.

Work Schedules

Most medical scientists work full time, and some work more than 40 hours per week.

Medical scientists typically have a Ph.D., usually in biology or a related life science. Some get a medical degree instead of, or in addition to, a Ph.D.

Medical scientists typically need a Ph.D. or medical degree. Candidates sometimes qualify for positions with a master’s degree and experience. Applicants to master’s or doctoral programs typically have a bachelor's degree in biology or a related physical science field, such as chemistry.

Ph.D. programs for medical scientists typically focus on research in a particular field, such as immunology, neurology, or cancer. Through laboratory work, Ph.D. students develop experiments related to their research.

Medical degree programs include Medical Doctor (M.D.), Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.), Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.), Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.), and advanced nursing degrees. In medical school, students usually spend the first phase of their education in labs and classrooms, taking courses such as anatomy, biochemistry, and medical ethics. During their second phase, medical students typically participate in residency programs.

Some medical scientist training programs offer dual degrees that pair a Ph.D. with a medical degree. Students in dual-degree programs learn both the research skills needed to be a scientist and the clinical skills needed to be a healthcare practitioner.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations

Medical scientists primarily conduct research and typically do not need licenses or certifications. However, those who practice medicine, such as by treating patients in clinical trials or in private practice, must be licensed as physicians or other healthcare practitioners.

Medical scientists with a Ph.D. may begin their careers in postdoctoral research positions; those with a medical degree often complete a residency. During postdoctoral appointments, Ph.D.s work with experienced scientists to learn more about their specialty area and improve their research skills. Medical school graduates who enter a residency program in their specialty generally spend several years working in a hospital or doctor’s office.

Medical scientists typically have an interest in the Building, Thinking and Creating interest areas, according to the Holland Code framework. The Building interest area indicates a focus on working with tools and machines, and making or fixing practical things. The Thinking interest area indicates a focus on researching, investigating, and increasing the understanding of natural laws. The Creating interest area indicates a focus on being original and imaginative, and working with artistic media.

If you are not sure whether you have a Building or Thinking or Creating interest which might fit with a career as a medical scientist, you can take a career test to measure your interests.

Medical scientists should also possess the following specific qualities:

Communication skills. Communication is critical, because medical scientists must be able to explain their conclusions. In addition, medical scientists write grant proposals, which are often required to continue their research.

Critical-thinking skills. Medical scientists must use their expertise to determine the best method for solving a specific research question.

Data-analysis skills. Medical scientists use statistical techniques, so that they can properly quantify and analyze health research questions.

Decision-making skills. Medical scientists must use their expertise and experience to determine what research questions to ask, how best to investigate the questions, and what data will best answer the questions.

Observation skills. Medical scientists conduct experiments that require precise observation of samples and other health data. Any mistake could lead to inconclusive or misleading results.

The median annual wage for medical scientists was $95,310 in May 2021. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $50,100, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $166,980.

In May 2021, the median annual wages for medical scientists in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:

Employment of medical scientists is projected to grow 17 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 10,000 openings for medical scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire. 

Demand for medical scientists will stem from greater demand for a variety of healthcare services as the population continues to age and rates of chronic disease continue to increase. These scientists will be needed for research into treating diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and cancer, and problems related to treatment, such as resistance to antibiotics. In addition, medical scientists will continue to be needed for medical research as a growing population travels globally and facilitates the spread of diseases.

The availability of federal funds for medical research grants also may affect opportunities for these scientists.

For more information about research specialties and opportunities within specialized fields for medical scientists, visit

American Association for Cancer Research

American Physician Scientists Association

American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science

American Society for Clinical Pathology

American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics

The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics

The Gerontological Society of America

Infectious Diseases Society of America

National Institute of General Medical Sciences

Society for Neuroscience

Society of Toxicology

Where does this information come from?

The career information above is taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook . This excellent resource for occupational data is published by the U.S. Department of Labor every two years. Truity periodically updates our site with information from the BLS database.

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This information is taken directly from the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Truity does not editorialize the information, including changing information that our readers believe is inaccurate, because we consider the BLS to be the authority on occupational information. However, if you would like to correct a typo or other technical error, you can reach us at [email protected] .

I am not sure if this career is right for me. How can I decide?

There are many excellent tools available that will allow you to measure your interests, profile your personality, and match these traits with appropriate careers. On this site, you can take the Career Personality Profiler assessment, the Holland Code assessment, or the Photo Career Quiz .

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Research scientist (medical)

Working as a medical research scientist means you'll be contributing to important developments in the world of medicine

As a medical research scientist, one of your aims will be to increase the body of scientific knowledge on topics related to medicine. You will do this by planning and conducting experiments and sharing your results.

You may also use your research to develop new, or improve existing, drugs, treatments or other medically-related products.

You can find work in higher education institutions, research institutes, hospitals, industry and medical research charities. The type of research you can carry out is wide ranging from from investigating the underlying basis of health or disease, to conducting clinical research and investigating methods of prevention, diagnosis and treatment of human disorders.

It's also possible for you to carry out molecular level research. This may involve using appropriate cell and animal models, or human volunteers may be used to study the clinical effects of various factors.

Responsibilities

Roles vary depending on the setting, but much of the work is laboratory-based. In general you'll need to:

• plan and conduct experiments and analyse or interpret the results
• keep accurate records of work undertaken
• use specialist computer software to analyse data and to produce diagrammatic representation of results
• write and submit applications and progress reports to funding bodies that support medical research (outside industry)
• discuss research progress with other departments, e.g. production and marketing (in industry)
• constantly consider the profit/loss potential of research products (in industry)
• collaborate with industry, research institutes, hospitals and academia
• teach and supervise students (in some higher education roles).

You'll often need to disseminate the results of your work to others, which means you'll:

• carry out presentations or discussions at team meetings with colleagues
• prepare presentations and deliver these at national and international scientific conferences
• write original papers for publication in peer-reviewed medical or scientific journals. In industry, there is usually less pressure to publish.

It's also important to stay in touch with developments and advances in your field and so you'll need to:

• read relevant scientific literature and journals
• attend scientific meetings and conferences in order to hear presentations from other researchers and participate in informal discussions with scientists from other parts of the world.
• If you're doing a PhD and have been awarded a studentship, it will usually come with a tax-free stipend to help cover living costs. This is currently at least £18,622 if funded by UKRI. Some institutions may award higher amounts or you may receive more if you’re industry funded or based in London.
• If you've completed a PhD, you may start on £25,000 to £40,000 a year, depending on your specialist subject and experience.
• Senior researchers and university professors earn in the region of £50,000 to £75,000 a year or more.

For current details on PhD studentship stipends, see UKRI - Studentships and Doctoral Training .

The majority of academic institutions in the UK have now implemented a single pay spine for all grades of staff. Pay varies according to whether you're leader of your own research group, part of a team of researchers or whether you've secured a lectureship while continuing your research.

Pay is usually higher in industry and the private sector.

Income figures are intended as a guide only.

Working hours

Your hours will vary depending on your setting. In academia in particular, there may be some flexibility with your start and finish times. Due to the nature of experimental work, hours can be irregular and may require some evening or weekend work.

You may be required to work longer hours when grant application deadlines are looming or an important experiment is underway. Overtime tends to be paid in industry but is unusual in academia.

What to expect

• Work is mainly laboratory-based with some time spent in the office planning and writing up experiments. Some positions may require field work.
• With career progression, the work becomes more office-based with a focus on writing grant applications, collaborating with other scientists, supervising staff, planning experiments, writing papers for publication and reviewing papers.
• Care and attention to detail is required as work can involve contact with potentially toxic or radioactive materials.
• Working with animals or animal-derived products, such as embryonic stem cells, may form part of the research, which will be an ethical dilemma for some. See the arguments at Understanding Animal Research .
• Travel is sometimes required, as you'll often collaborate with other institutions. Some national and international travel is needed for attendance at conferences to present the results of your research and to keep up to date with research findings from peers. Travel typically becomes more frequent with career progression.
• Initiatives are in place in various sectors to encourage equality, inclusion and diversity within medical research. UKRI has equality, diversity and inclusion policies and guidance with the aim to create a dynamic system of research and innovation in the UK.

Qualifications

You'll need a good honours degree in a medical or life science subject to become a medical researcher. Relevant subjects include:

• biochemistry
• biomedical sciences
• medical microbiology
• molecular biology
• pharmacology
• physiology.

Many areas of medical research now also look for graduates in chemistry, physics or statistics/bioinformatics, so you can be successful if you have a degree in one of these subjects.

Most people entering this field have or will be working towards a research-based MSc or a PhD. This is particularly important for higher level positions and career progression without a PhD (particularly in academia) is likely to be limited.

You may be able to enter with just your degree and no postgraduate qualification if you also have some significant laboratory experience but you'll typically still need a PhD to then progress.

Direct entry to a research scientist role with an HND or foundation degree only is not possible. With either of these qualifications, you may be able to enter at technician level, but you'll need to take further qualifications to become a medical researcher. Some employers allow you to study while working part time.

Funding is made available to research institutions via the Medical Research Council (MRC). This is then passed on to students in the form of scholarships, bursaries and studentships. Contact the individual institution to find out more about the funding options.

You'll need to show:

• technical, scientific and numerical skills
• good written and oral communication skills for report writing and presenting findings
• genuine enjoyment of the research subject
• a methodical approach to work with good planning skills
• tenacity and patience when carrying out experiments
• the ability to work well in teams and to network and forge links with collaborators
• problem-solving skills and analytical thinking
• attention to detail.

Work experience

Laboratory experience and knowledge of the range of techniques used will improve your chances of finding a research appointment. Experience can be achieved through either a placement year in industry or vacation work experience in academia or industry.

You could make speculative applications to potential academic supervisors to ask for work experience or shadowing opportunities. You may also want to consider getting experience within both industry and academia so you can see how the different sectors vary and where your preference lies.

Funding for placements and projects may be available through:

• Nuffield Foundation

You should also try to keep up to date with developments in the medical field and the Medical Research Council (MRC) can help with this.

Find out more about the different kinds of work experience and internships that are available.

There are various employers in medical research, including:

• industry (especially pharmaceutical companies)
• non-governmental and voluntary bodies
• medical research charities
• research councils, especially the Medical Research Council (MRC)
• universities.

Work outside industry is usually funded by the government through the allocation of research funding to universities, research councils and hospitals.

Medical research also receives extensive financial support from charitable bodies that fund specific research into their areas of interest.

Opportunities are also available through Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP) . This is a joint project between a graduate, an organisation and a 'knowledge base', such as a university or a research organisation, which allows PhD graduates to apply research in a commercial environment.

Look for job vacancies at:

• Medical Research Council (MRC)
• Nature Jobs
• New Scientist Jobs
• Times Higher Education Uni Jobs

University websites advertise vacancies too.

Specialist recruitment agencies are used within the scientific community. These include:

• Cranleigh Scientific

Professional development

If you're studying for a PhD while being employed in a medical research post, you'll be supported by a supervisor. Your institution is likely to provide additional training or you can access this through Vitae , which helps to support the professional development of researchers.

You'll need to keep up to date with developments in your field throughout your career and continuing professional development (CPD) is very important for this.

Technical training, either self-taught or from more experienced scientists, will allow you to learn new laboratory techniques. It's also common to visit other labs to be taught techniques that are already established elsewhere.

You'll be expected to attend conferences on a regular basis to hear about scientific advances and new research techniques. On occasion, you'll be required to present your own work.

Training may be more structured in industry and it may be possible for you to develop your own training programme with guidance from a mentor.

Membership of a professional organisation is useful for support throughout your career and to help with CPD. Many professional bodies have their own learning and training schemes and can help with how your record your CPD activities. You can also work towards professional qualifications or chartered status as you gain experience.

Relevant bodies include:

• Royal Society of Biology

Career prospects

Career structures vary between sectors. In academia, once you've completed your PhD, it's likely you'll enter a postdoctoral position. These are normally short-term contracts of up to three years.

Career progression is related to the success of your research project(s), the quality and quantity of original papers you publish and your success in attracting funding. Building up experience in laboratory specialties can also help. With experience, you can progress to senior research fellow or professor and can one day manage your own team.

You'll usually have to undertake a few short-term contracts before you have a chance of securing a much sought-after permanent position in academic science. There are often teaching duties attached to these positions and opportunities are limited with high levels of competition.

Career development tends to be more structured in industry, hospitals or research institutes and involves taking on increased responsibilities, such as supervising and managing projects.

With experience and a successful track record, you can move into senior research and management roles. It's also be possible in some industrial companies to move into other functions, such as production, quality assurance, HR or marketing.

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What does a biomedical scientist do?

Would you make a good biomedical scientist? Take our career test and find your match with over 800 careers.

What is a Biomedical Scientist?

Biomedical scientists uses scientific methods to investigate biological processes and diseases that affect humans and animals. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and interpret findings to improve our understanding of diseases and develop new treatments and cures. They also ensure the safety and efficacy of drugs and medical devices through clinical trials and regulatory processes.

The work of biomedical scientists covers a wide range of areas, including genetics, microbiology, immunology, and biochemistry. Various tools and techniques are used to study living organisms at the molecular and cellular levels, such as microscopy, DNA sequencing, and protein analysis. Biomedical scientists often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians and nurses, to develop new diagnostics and treatments for diseases.

What does a Biomedical Scientist do?

The work of biomedical scientists has a profound impact on human health and has contributed to the development of numerous life-saving medical advances.

Duties and Responsibilities The duties and responsibilities of a biomedical scientist vary depending on their area of specialization and the specific role they play within their organization. However, some common responsibilities of biomedical scientists include:

• Conducting Research: Biomedical scientists design and conduct experiments to investigate biological processes and diseases. They use various laboratory techniques, including microscopy, DNA sequencing, and protein analysis, to study living organisms at the molecular and cellular levels. They collect and analyze data, interpret findings, and communicate results to other scientists and healthcare professionals.
• Developing New Treatments: Biomedical scientists work to develop new drugs, therapies, and medical devices to treat diseases. They conduct preclinical studies to test the safety and efficacy of new treatments, and they work with clinicians to design and conduct clinical trials to evaluate the effectiveness of new treatments in humans.
• Analyzing Samples: Biomedical scientists analyze biological samples, such as blood, tissue, and urine, to diagnose diseases and monitor treatment. They use laboratory techniques to detect and quantify biomarkers, such as proteins and DNA, that are associated with specific diseases.
• Ensuring Quality Control: Biomedical scientists are responsible for ensuring the quality and accuracy of laboratory tests and procedures. They follow established protocols and standard operating procedures, maintain laboratory equipment, and monitor laboratory safety to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Managing Laboratory Operations: Biomedical scientists may be responsible for managing laboratory operations, including supervising staff, developing and implementing laboratory policies and procedures, and ensuring that laboratory equipment is properly maintained and calibrated.
• Collaborating with Other Healthcare Professionals: Biomedical scientists collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and pharmacists, to develop and implement treatment plans for patients. They communicate laboratory results and provide expert advice on the interpretation of test results.
• Teaching and Mentoring: Biomedical scientists may be responsible for teaching and mentoring students and junior researchers. They may develop and deliver lectures, supervise laboratory activities, and provide guidance and mentorship to students and trainees.

Types of Biomedical Scientists There are several different types of biomedical scientists, each with their own area of specialization and focus. Here are some examples of different types of biomedical scientists and what they do:

• Microbiologists : Microbiologists study microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. They investigate how these organisms cause disease, develop new treatments to combat infections, and develop new diagnostic tests to identify infectious agents.
• Immunologists : Immunologists study the immune system and its role in fighting disease. They investigate how the immune system responds to infectious agents, cancer cells, and other foreign substances, and they develop new treatments that harness the immune system to fight disease.
• Geneticists : Geneticists study genes and their role in disease. They investigate the genetic basis of diseases, such as cancer, and develop new diagnostic tests and treatments that target specific genetic mutations.
• Biochemists : Biochemists study the chemical processes that occur in living organisms. They investigate how cells and tissues produce and use energy, and they develop new drugs and therapies that target specific metabolic pathways.
• Toxicologists : Toxicologists study the effects of toxic substances on the body. They investigate how chemicals, pollutants, and other environmental factors can cause disease, and they develop strategies to prevent and mitigate the harmful effects of toxic exposures.
• Pharmacologists: Pharmacologists study the effects of drugs on the body. They investigate how drugs interact with cells and tissues, and they develop new drugs and therapies to treat disease.
• Medical Laboratory Scientists: Medical laboratory scientists, also known as clinical laboratory scientists, perform laboratory tests on patient samples to diagnose diseases and monitor treatment. They analyze blood, urine, tissue, and other samples using various laboratory techniques and instruments.

What is the workplace of a Biomedical Scientist like?

Biomedical scientists work in diverse settings, contributing to advancements in medical research, healthcare, and the understanding of diseases. The workplace of a biomedical scientist can vary based on their specific role, specialization, and the nature of their work.

Academic and Research Institutions: Many biomedical scientists are employed in universities, medical schools, and research institutions. In these settings, they conduct cutting-edge research, lead laboratory teams, and contribute to scientific discoveries. Academic biomedical scientists often split their time between conducting research, teaching students, and publishing their findings in scientific journals.

Hospitals and Healthcare Settings: Biomedical scientists play a crucial role in healthcare, especially in clinical laboratories and diagnostic facilities. They may be involved in analyzing patient samples, conducting medical tests, and interpreting results to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Biomedical scientists working in hospitals collaborate with clinicians and healthcare professionals to ensure accurate and timely diagnostic information.

Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Companies: The biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries employ biomedical scientists to drive innovation in drug discovery, development, and testing. In these settings, scientists work on designing experiments, conducting preclinical and clinical trials, and developing new therapeutic interventions. Biomedical scientists may also be involved in quality control, ensuring the safety and efficacy of pharmaceutical products.

Government Agencies and Public Health Organizations: Biomedical scientists can work for government agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In these roles, they contribute to public health research, policy development, and the regulation of healthcare products.

Nonprofit Research Organizations: Nonprofit organizations dedicated to medical research and public health also employ biomedical scientists. These organizations focus on specific diseases or health issues and work towards finding solutions, advancing knowledge, and advocating for improved healthcare practices.

Private Research Foundations: Biomedical scientists may work for private research foundations that fund and conduct medical research. These foundations often collaborate with academic institutions and industry partners to support innovative research projects with the potential to impact human health.

Collaborative and Interdisciplinary Teams: Biomedical scientists frequently collaborate with professionals from various disciplines, including bioinformaticians, clinicians, engineers, and statisticians. Interdisciplinary collaboration is common, especially in research projects that require a multifaceted approach to address complex health challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Biology related careers and degrees.

• Animal Scientist
• Bioinformatics Scientist
• Biomedical Scientist
• Biophysicist
• Biostatistician
• Cellular Biologist
• Comparative Anatomist
• Conservation Biologist
• Developmental Biologist
• Ecology Biologist
• Ecotoxicologist
• Entomologist
• Evolutionary Biologist
• Herpetologist
• Ichthyologist
• Immunologist
• Mammalogist
• Marine Biogeochemist
• Marine Biologist
• Marine Conservationist
• Marine Ecologist
• Marine Fisheries Biologist
• Marine Mammalogist
• Marine Microbiologist
• Microbiologist
• Molecular Biologist
• Neurobiologist
• Ornithologist
• Paleontologist
• Physiologist
• Systems Biologist
• Wildlife Biologist
• Wildlife Ecologist
• Zoo Endocrinologist

Related Degrees

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• Conservation Biology
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• Molecular Biology
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• Anthropologist
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• Cytotechnologist
• Dairy Scientist
• Engineering Physicist
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• Food Scientist
• Forensic Pathologist
• Forensic Science Technician
• Forensic Scientist
• Geospatial Information Scientist
• Horticulturist
• Hydrologist
• Industrial Ecologist
• Materials Scientist
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Medical Research Scientist

What does a professional in this career do.

A Medical Research Scientist conducts research with the goal of understanding diseases and improving human health. May study biology and causes of health problems, assess effectiveness of treatments or develop new pharmaceutical products. May direct clinical trials to gather data..

Job Outlook

There were 212 Medical Research Scientist job postings in North Carolina in the past year and 7788 in the United States.

In combination with other careers in the Medical Scientist industry, which includes the Medical Research Scientist career, the following graph shows the number of people employed for each year since 2015:

Many new Medical Research Scientist jobs have salaries estimated to be in the following ranges, based on the requirements and responsibilities listed in job postings from the past year.

The average estimated salary in the United States for this career, based on job postings in the past year, is $146,645.

The average estimated salary in North Carolina for this career, based on job postings in the past year, is $132,757.

Percentiles represent the percentage that is lower than the value. For example, 25% of estimated salaries for Medical Research Scientist postings in the United States in the past year were lower than $76,282.

Education and Experience

Posted Medical Research Scientist jobs typically require the following level of education. The numbers below are based on job postings in the United States from the past year. Not all job postings list education requirements.

Posted Medical Research Scientist jobs typically require the following number of years of experience. The numbers below are based on job postings in the United States from the past year. Not all job postings list experience requirements.

Below are listings of the most common general and specialized skills Medical Research Scientist positions expect applicants to have as well as the most common skills that distinguish individuals from their peers. The percentage of job postings that specifically mention each skill is also listed.

Baseline Skills

A skill that is required across a broad range of occupations, including this one.

• Research (27.84%)
• Communication (12.47%)
• Teaching (10.76%)
• Management (9.6%)
• Leadership (8.41%)
• Writing (6.82%)
• Operations (6.24%)
• Innovation (5.56%)
• Presentations (5.44%)
• Interpersonal Communications (5.06%)

Defining Skills

A core skill for this occupation, it occurs frequently in job postings.

• Clinical Research (8.73%)
• Diabetes Mellitus (22.99%)
• Endocrinology (80.87%)

Necessary Skills

A skill that is requested frequently in this occupation but isn’t specific to it.

• Biomarkers (2.85%)
• Workflow Management (1.8%)
• Biotechnology (2.22%)
• Pediatrics (11.38%)
• Molecular Biology (5%)
• Quality Improvement (2.32%)
• Cell Biology (4.7%)
• Biochemical Assays (5.86%)
• Clinical Practices (2.3%)
• Biochemistry (3.08%)
• Metabolism (7.06%)
• Immunology (5.32%)
• Clinical Trials (6.55%)
• Flow Cytometry (4.1%)
• Cell Cultures (4.33%)
• Biology (7.86%)
• R (Programming Language) (1.25%)
• Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent (ELISA) Assay (2.7%)
• Data Analysis (4.61%)
• Internal Medicine (7.05%)
• Oncology (8.99%)
• Nursing (4.88%)
• Western Blot (2.33%)
• Research Experiences (2.74%)
• Pharmaceuticals (3.64%)
• Surgery (4.37%)

Distinguishing Skills

A skill that may distinguish a subset of the occupation.

• Endocrine Diseases And Disorders (3.16%)
• Thyroid (7.15%)

Salary Boosting Skills

A professional who wishes to excel in this career path may consider developing the following highly valued skills. The percentage of job postings that specifically mention each skill is listed.

• Endocrine Diseases And Disorders (18.34%)
• Thyroid (41.56%)
• Clinical Research (50.7%)

Alternative Job Titles

Sometimes employers post jobs with Medical Research Scientist skills but a different job title. Some common alternative job titles include:

• Endocrinologist
• Endocrinology Physician
• Pediatric Endocrinologist
• Endocrinology Registered Nurse
• Oncology Research Scientist
• Reproductive Endocrinologist
• Endocrinology Medical Assistant
• Endocrinology Diabetes Care Specialist
• Medical Researcher

Similar Occupations

If you are interested in exploring occupations with similar skills, you may want to research the following job titles. Note that we only list occupations that have at least one corresponding NC State Online and Distance Education program.

• Biomedical Scientist

Common Employers

Here are the employers that have posted the most Medical Research Scientist jobs in the past year along with how many they have posted.

United States

• Archway Physician Recruitment (384)
• CompHealth (186)
• Enterprise Medical Recruiting (163)
• Britt Medical Search (160)
• AMN Healthcare (112)
• Summit Recruiting Services, LLC. (81)
• AstraZeneca (80)
• University of California (80)
• Weatherby Healthcare (79)
• The Curare Group (78)

North Carolina

• Archway Physician Recruitment (28)
• Atrium Health Floyd (21)
• Atrium Health (17)
• Novant Health (13)
• AMN Healthcare (12)
• Wake Forest Baptist Health (8)
• UNC Health (8)
• HCA Healthcare (6)
• InSync Healthcare Recruiters (5)
• Permanent Placement Resources (5)

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So You Want to Be a Medical Scientist

• By Med School Insiders
• January 27, 2024
• Accompanying Video , Pre-med
• So You Want to Be

So you want to be a medical scientist. An MD isn’t enough to make your parents proud, so why not toss in a PhD as well? With your MD/PhD, you’ll be making groundbreaking medical discoveries each day you go to work. Well, not quite. This is the reality of being a medical scientist.

Welcome to our next installment in So You Want to Be. In this series, we highlight a specific medical career path to help you decide if it’s a good fit for you. You can find the other specialties on our So You Want To Be blog category  or  YouTube playlist .

What Is a Medical Scientist?

A medical scientist or physician scientist isn’t a distinct specialty of medicine but rather a career path you choose to take.

Medical scientists might hold a PhD, an MD, or both. These are notable distinctions because a PhD will not have gone to medical school, whereas earning an MD or MD/PhD requires four years of medical school. That’s why some medical scientists with an MD prefer to be referred to as physician scientists.

For the purposes of this guide, we’ll be focusing on the MD path, but much of the pros and cons and day-to-day will also apply to anyone interested in becoming a PhD medical scientist without an MD.

A medical scientist is dedicated to conducting research that enhances our understanding of human health and diseases. They focus on exploring the causes and progressions of various health conditions, aiming to develop effective treatments and preventive measures.

Depending on their interest and field of study, medical scientists often devote approximately 4 to 5 days of their work week to performing research in laboratories. An integral part of this includes writing research grants, conducting lab meetings, and performing meticulous analysis of experimental data, and they often employ statistical methods to decipher complex health-related phenomena.

Medical scientists can also be actively involved in conducting clinical trials. These trials are critical for testing the safety and efficacy of new treatments, drugs, or medical devices on human subjects. Collaboration is a cornerstone of their work, as they frequently team up with doctors, other scientists, and statisticians. This multidisciplinary approach is essential due to the multifaceted nature of medical research.

After testing a hypothesis, medical scientists publish their findings in scientific journals and share their discoveries with both the medical community and, at times, the broader public. This dissemination of knowledge can significantly influence healthcare practices and policy-making.

Medical scientists can have a profound impact on healthcare, which can be incredibly rewarding. Their contributions are vital for the development of new medical treatments and diagnostics, ultimately leading to enhanced patient care and health outcomes.

Medical scientists can practice in a wide variety of different settings.

Academic Settings

Academic settings are the most common workplace.

Universities and medical schools offer an environment conducive to both research and teaching, given that there are interested students, faculty, and many technicians and other research personnel. In these settings, physician scientists often conduct research, teach medical students and residents, and sometimes practice clinically.

Academic institutions provide support to tackle research projects, including obtaining funding and the facilities for shared lab equipment. Most academic settings also have the benefit of being associated with large hospitals and medical centers.

Research Institutes

Independent research institutes, which often focus on specific diseases or types of research, are another common workplace. These institutes may have affiliations with academic centers, but they function primarily as dedicated research facilities. Physician scientists in this setting can focus intensively on research, often with greater resources and specialized equipment.

Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies

Some physician scientists work in the industry, particularly with companies that focus on developing new medications or medical technologies. Their clinical expertise is required to develop new treatments, understand patient needs, and conduct clinical trials.

Government Agencies

Government agencies like the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, and the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, employ physician scientists in various capacities. They can work on public health research, policy development, and administration of research programs. Their medical expertise helps to shape health policies and research agendas at the national level.

Nonprofit Organizations and Foundations

Some physician scientists work with nonprofits and foundations that focus on health research and policy. These roles can involve research, advocacy, and the development of programs to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes.

Private Practice and Consultancy

Although less common, some physician scientists may be involved in private practice, either in clinical work, consultancy, or in combination with research activities. These roles often require balancing clinical duties with research interests.

Common Misconceptions About Medical Research

Let’s clear up some of the misconceptions about working as a medical scientist.

A common misconception is that medical research frequently leads to immediate, groundbreaking discoveries. In reality, the process is often slow and meticulous.

Significant breakthroughs are relatively rare and are usually the result of many years of sustained research. The journey involves numerous incremental advancements as opposed to dramatic new findings.

The career path for medical scientists isn’t always straightforward and can be quite varied. Individuals in this field may find themselves transitioning between different sectors, such as academia, industry, and government roles. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all career trajectory in medical science, and success often requires flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and opportunities.

Another misconception is that medical scientists exclusively work in labs. In reality, their work is multifaceted, encompassing not only laboratory research but also data analysis, writing research papers and grant applications, and presenting findings at conferences. This variety in tasks ensures that the role is diverse and not confined to a single setting.

Lastly, many people believe there are limited job opportunities for medical scientists. The field is broad, offering diverse career opportunities in academia, the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, government agencies, and healthcare organizations. The job opportunities are so varied because the skill set of a medical scientist, and their ability to communicate with other scientific parties, is valued across multiple sectors.

How to Become a Medical Scientist

Becoming a physician scientist with an MD/PhD involves a rigorous and lengthy educational process that’s designed to train individuals who are interested in both practicing medicine and conducting biomedical research.

The journey is largely split into two branches: pursuing each degree independently or enrolling in an MD/PhD program or integrated Medical Scientist Training Program, MSTP.

Pursuing an MD and PhD Independently

With a sequential approach, you first must complete a Doctor of Medicine (MD) program and then enroll in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program, or vice versa. This path is less common due to the extended time commitment and the requirement of two different and unique applications—one for MD and another for the PhD program. MD graduates may choose to pursue their PhD during or after residency.

An MD program typically takes 4 years and is focused on clinical training, preparing students for a career in medicine. This is the same path anyone who wants to become an MD will begin with, no matter the specialty.

A PhD program with a research focus usually takes 4-6 years and requires a dissertation based on original research.

Independently pursuing an MD and PhD usually takes longer than completing a joint program or MSTP. The time to complete both programs can range from 8-12 years, depending on a student’s pace and the nature of their PhD research.

This route offers flexibility in timing and choice of programs but can be more challenging due to the lack of a structured pathway. Many courses will likely be repeated, and unlike the opportunities available to those enrolled in an MSTP, there’s no tuition reimbursement.

Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP)

Medical Scientist Training Programs are dual-degree programs designed to integrate medical and graduate education.

Training occurs simultaneously in medicine and research, as pursuing degrees independently can sometimes result in a disconnect between the two fields. There are around 50 MSTPs located across the US.

The MSTP distinction means the NIH provides governmental funds to support the program, including tuition coverage and a graduate stipend every year, making MSTPs more financially appealing. There are also MD/PhD programs that are not MSTP, but their funding depends on the internal program and institution itself, not the government. Because of this, non-MSTP programs tend to be smaller in size.

There are appropriate standards across MSTP institutions, such as annual retreats, a formalized curriculum, and seminars to aid in transitions. The structured curriculum smoothly transitions students between medical training and research~~, with research rotations completed during the summers in between medical school semesters~~.

An MSTP is typically 7 to 8 years in length and involves two phases: Pre-clinical and clinical, and these phases are interspersed with PhD research.

Because of the limited spots available, guaranteed stipends, and the fact the programs are often located at more prestigious schools, admission to MSTPs is highly competitive.

Each year, there are approximately 700 MD/PhD matriculants across the nation. Students must not only have satisfied requirements for medical school entry, which includes extracurriculars as well as a high MCAT and GPA, but also have actively participated in several research projects or experiences. Lately, competitive applicants commonly have at least one publication. Unfortunately, because of NIH governmental funding, MSTPs do not accept international or non-US trainees.

Subspecialties Within Medical Research

What about subspecialization?

Most MD/PhD graduates choose to pursue residency and fellowship training, which will take another 3-7 years minimum. Their dual degree, research prowess, and extensive training it takes to complete an MD/PhD makes them particularly attractive to residency programs.

While MD/PhD graduates can enter any medical specialty, some fields are more common due to the presence of integrated research pathways, funding availability, and research prevalence in the specialty.

Internal medicine, pediatrics, pathology, neurology, psychiatry, radiology, and radiation oncology are common residency paths. Given how long the MD/PhD training already is, students interested in longer residencies and fellowships must acknowledge the delayed income, level of work ethic, and perseverance required to complete this 1- to 2-decade journey.

What You’ll Love About Being a Medical Scientist

There’s a lot to love about working as a medical scientist.

People who love working as a medical scientist cite the dynamic and intellectually stimulating nature of their work as a major draw. The field offers a unique blend of clinical practice and research, allowing individuals to directly impact patient care while also contributing to the broader understanding of medical science.

The variety in day-to-day activities is a significant appeal. One day might involve seeing patients and addressing their immediate health concerns, while the next could be dedicated to laboratory research or analyzing data to uncover new insights into disease mechanisms.

Medical scientists also encounter diverse patient populations, providing a rich and rewarding clinical experience. The “bread and butter” of work ranges from routine patient examinations to conducting groundbreaking research, which means no two days are alike.

Additionally, the lifestyle of a medical scientist is flexible, with the ability to balance clinical duties with research pursuits. This balance makes for a career that is not only professionally fulfilling but also accommodating of personal interests and commitments. The sense of contribution to both immediate patient health and the advancement of medical knowledge is a powerful motivator and source of satisfaction and fulfillment for those in this field.

What You Won’t Love About Being a Medical Scientist

While the career of a medical scientist has a lot to offer, it’s a long journey to get there, which isn’t for everyone.

The most notable downside to this career path is the extra training involved, which delays your ability to earn an attending salary even further. While many MD/PhD programs offer stipends and tuition waivers, the extended years in training equates to delayed entry into the full-time workforce.

The field requires extensive education and training, and the early years, particularly in academic or research settings, may not be as financially rewarding as other professions requiring similar levels of education. However, it can be a financially stable and rewarding career over the long term.

Though rewarding when breakthroughs are made, these don’t happen every day—far from it. Research can seem exciting and even sexy from the outside, but it’s often a slow and frustrating process; some experiments may require years to see results, whereas others may never yield the expected results. This can be disheartening, especially for those who are results-oriented.

That’s why it’s so important for premeds to get exposure to various types of research before they dedicate their education and future careers to it. Some types of research may be more appealing than others, and you could write it off entirely after one bad experience before figuring out what you like.

Additionally, the dual demands of clinical practice and research can lead to a busy lifestyle. Balancing patient care with the rigors of scientific investigation means long hours, which often impact work-life balance and job satisfaction.

Lastly, securing funding for research is a constant challenge. The competitive nature of grant applications and the reliance on external funding sources can create uncertainty and affect the scope and direction of research. And different areas of research see different spikes and drops in popularity, given public perception and government funding priorities. What’s most important or most interesting to you isn’t always what’s most funded.

For those in academic settings, there’s often pressure to publish regularly, contribute to teaching, and maintain a reputation in the scientific community, which can be demanding alongside clinical responsibilities. These activities are not reimbursed yet are frequently seen as necessary.

Should You Become a Medical Scientist?

So, should you become a medical scientist?

Medical scientists get to help shape healthcare delivery and treatment. Those who are naturally curious, enjoy solving complex problems, and are constantly seeking new knowledge tend to do well in this field. Enjoying teamwork and collaboration is also important, as medical scientists often work with other researchers, clinicians, and healthcare professionals. If you have a genuine interest in understanding disease mechanisms and a drive to improve patient care, this may be an ideal path for you.

However, the path to becoming a medical scientist is long and can be filled with challenges, including research setbacks and the pressures of medical training. The field of research can also be unpredictable and full of unknowns. Comfort with ambiguity and a flexible mindset are crucial.

Patience and resilience are also incredibly vital and relevant traits to possess. It’s easy to become discouraged while conducting research. Medical scientists must be able to push through the failed experiments, rejections from grant approvals, long periods of monotony, as well as periods of great challenge. Earning an MD already requires significant levels of dedication and perseverance. An MD/PhD takes this to a whole new level, not only because the training is longer, but also because the day-to-day requires more patience than regular MD work. Research is no cakewalk.

If you’re considering becoming a medical scientist, seek out mentors and experiences in both research and clinical settings to better understand the nature of the work and whether or not it aligns with your interests. Engaging in longitudinal research projects can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.

If you’re considering a career as a medical scientist or in medicine as a whole, elevating your research skillset and becoming prolific in research will open doors for you. Our all-new Ultimate Research Course is packed with dozens of videos, resources, and exclusive private community access to elevate your research game to the highest level. Learn from the Med School Insiders experts on our tested and proven tactics to publish dozens and dozens of publications to wow admissions committees and make your application stand out. Whether you’re applying to MD/PhD programs or MD programs, we’re confident you are going to find tremendous value. So much so, it comes with a money back guarantee so that there’s no risk to you.

Med School Insiders has helped thousands of premeds and medical students design and achieve their ideal career paths and we’d love to be a part of your journey to becoming a future physician.

Special thanks to physician scientist Dr. Albert Zhou for helping us create this So You Want to Be entry.

It’s never too early to begin thinking about the specialty you want to pursue. If you’re struggling to choose the best path for you, our So You Want to Be playlist is a great place to start.

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• Medical Scientists: Jobs, Career, Salary and Education Information

Medical Scientists

Career, salary and education information.

What They Do : Medical scientists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health.

Work Environment : Medical scientists work in offices and laboratories. Most work full time.

How to Become One : Medical scientists typically have a Ph.D., usually in biology or a related life science. Some medical scientists get a medical degree instead of, or in addition to, a Ph.D.

Salary : The median annual wage for medical scientists is $95,310.

Job Outlook : Employment of medical scientists is projected to grow 17 percent over the next ten years, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Related Careers : Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of medical scientists with similar occupations.

Following is everything you need to know about a career as a medical scientist with lots of details. As a first step, take a look at some of the following jobs, which are real jobs with real employers. You will be able to see the very real job career requirements for employers who are actively hiring. The link will open in a new tab so that you can come back to this page to continue reading about the career:

Top 3 Medical Scientist Jobs

Firstat Medical Staffing is seeking a travel Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS) for a travel job in Duarte, California. Job Description & Requirements Specialty: Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS) Discipline

Medical Lab Scientist Discipline: Allied Health Professional Start Date: 09/23/2024 Duration: 13 weeks 40 hours per week Shift: 8 hours, days Employment Type: Travel A medical laboratory scientist ...

Education and/or Experience Bachelor's Degree with completion of NAACLS accredited Medical Laboratory Scientist program, or Bachelor's Degree in a lab related field & one to two years of Medical ...

See all Medical Scientist jobs

What Medical Scientists Do [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Medical scientists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health. They often use clinical trials and other investigative methods to reach their findings.

Duties of Medical Scientists

Medical scientists typically do the following:

• Design and conduct studies that investigate both human diseases and methods to prevent and treat them
• Prepare and analyze medical samples and data to investigate causes and treatment of toxicity, pathogens, or chronic diseases
• Standardize drug potency, doses, and methods to allow for the mass manufacturing and distribution of drugs and medicinal compounds
• Create and test medical devices
• Develop programs that improve health outcomes, in partnership with health departments, industry personnel, and physicians
• Write research grant proposals and apply for funding from government agencies and private funding sources
• Follow procedures to avoid contamination and maintain safety

Many medical scientists form hypotheses and develop experiments, with little supervision. They often lead teams of technicians and, sometimes, students, who perform support tasks. For example, a medical scientist working in a university laboratory may have undergraduate assistants take measurements and make observations for the scientist's research.

Medical scientists study the causes of diseases and other health problems. For example, a medical scientist who does cancer research might put together a combination of drugs that could slow the cancer's progress. A clinical trial may be done to test the drugs. A medical scientist may work with licensed physicians to test the new combination on patients who are willing to participate in the study.

In a clinical trial, patients agree to help determine if a particular drug, a combination of drugs, or some other medical intervention works. Without knowing which group they are in, patients in a drug-related clinical trial receive either the trial drug or a placebo—a pill or injection that looks like the trial drug but does not actually contain the drug.

Medical scientists analyze the data from all of the patients in the clinical trial, to see how the trial drug performed. They compare the results with those obtained from the control group that took the placebo, and they analyze the attributes of the participants. After they complete their analysis, medical scientists may write about and publish their findings.

Medical scientists do research both to develop new treatments and to try to prevent health problems. For example, they may study the link between smoking and lung cancer or between diet and diabetes.

Medical scientists who work in private industry usually have to research the topics that benefit their company the most, rather than investigate their own interests. Although they may not have the pressure of writing grant proposals to get money for their research, they may have to explain their research plans to nonscientist managers or executives.

Medical scientists usually specialize in an area of research within the broad area of understanding and improving human health. Medical scientists may engage in basic and translational research that seeks to improve the understanding of, or strategies for, improving health. They may also choose to engage in clinical research that studies specific experimental treatments.

Work Environment for Medical Scientists [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Medical scientists hold about 119,200 jobs. The largest employers of medical scientists are as follows:

Medical scientists usually work in offices and laboratories. They spend most of their time studying data and reports. Medical scientists sometimes work with dangerous biological samples and chemicals, but they take precautions that ensure a safe environment.

Medical Scientist Work Schedules

Most medical scientists work full time.

How to Become a Medical Scientist [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Get the education you need: Find schools for Medical Scientists near you!

Medical scientists typically have a Ph.D., usually in biology or a related life science. Some medical scientists get a medical degree instead of, or in addition to, a Ph.D.

Education for Medical Scientists

Students planning careers as medical scientists generally pursue a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Undergraduate students benefit from taking a broad range of classes, including life sciences, physical sciences, and math. Students also typically take courses that develop communication and writing skills, because they must learn to write grants effectively and publish their research findings.

After students have completed their undergraduate studies, they typically enter Ph.D. programs. Dual-degree programs are available that pair a Ph.D. with a range of specialized medical degrees. A few degree programs that are commonly paired with Ph.D. studies are Medical Doctor (M.D.), Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.), Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.), and advanced nursing degrees. Whereas Ph.D. studies focus on research methods, such as project design and data interpretation, students in dual-degree programs learn both the clinical skills needed to be a physician and the research skills needed to be a scientist.

Graduate programs emphasize both laboratory work and original research. These programs offer prospective medical scientists the opportunity to develop their experiments and, sometimes, to supervise undergraduates. Ph.D. programs culminate in a dissertation that the candidate presents before a committee of professors. Students may specialize in a particular field, such as gerontology, neurology, or cancer.

Those who go to medical school spend most of the first 2 years in labs and classrooms, taking courses such as anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, psychology, microbiology, pathology, medical ethics, and medical law. They also learn how to record medical histories, examine patients, and diagnose illnesses. They may be required to participate in residency programs, meeting the same requirements that physicians and surgeons have to fulfill.

Medical scientists often continue their education with postdoctoral work. This provides additional and more independent lab experience, including experience in specific processes and techniques, such as gene splicing. Often, that experience is transferable to other research projects.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Medical Scientists

Medical scientists primarily conduct research and typically do not need licenses or certifications. However, those who administer drugs or gene therapy or who otherwise practice medicine on patients in clinical trials or a private practice need a license to practice as a physician.

Medical Scientist Training

Medical scientists often begin their careers in temporary postdoctoral research positions or in medical residency. During their postdoctoral appointments, they work with experienced scientists as they continue to learn about their specialties or develop a broader understanding of related areas of research. Graduates of M.D. or D.O. programs may enter a residency program in their specialty of interest. A residency usually takes place in a hospital and varies in duration, generally lasting from 3 to 7 years, depending on the specialty. Some fellowships exist that train medical practitioners in research skills. These may take place before or after residency.

Postdoctoral positions frequently offer the opportunity to publish research findings. A solid record of published research is essential to getting a permanent college or university faculty position.

Work Experience in a Related Occupation for Medical Scientists

Although it is not a requirement for entry, many medical scientists become interested in research after working as a physician or surgeon , or in another medical profession, such as dentist .

Important Qualities for Medical Scientists

Communication skills. Communication is critical, because medical scientists must be able to explain their conclusions. In addition, medical scientists write grant proposals, because grants often are required to fund their research.

Critical-thinking skills. Medical scientists must use their expertise to determine the best method for solving a specific research question.

Data-analysis skills. Medical scientists use statistical techniques, so that they can properly quantify and analyze health research questions.

Decisionmaking skills. Medical scientists must determine what research questions to ask, how best to investigate the questions, and what data will best answer the questions.

Observation skills. Medical scientists conduct experiments that require precise observation of samples and other health-related data. Any mistake could lead to inconclusive or misleading results.

Medical Scientist Salaries [ About this section ] [ More salary/earnings info ] [ To Top ]

The median annual wage for medical scientists is $95,310. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $50,100, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $166,980.

The median annual wages for medical scientists in the top industries in which they work are as follows:

Job Outlook for Medical Scientists [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Employment of medical scientists is projected to grow 17 percent over the next ten years, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 10,000 openings for medical scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Employment of Medical Scientists

Demand for medical scientists will stem from greater demand for a variety of healthcare services as the population continues to age and rates of chronic disease continue to increase. These scientists will be needed for research into treating diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and cancer, and problems related to treatment, such as resistance to antibiotics. In addition, medical scientists will continue to be needed for medical research as a growing population travels globally and facilitates the spread of diseases.

The availability of federal funds for medical research grants also may affect opportunities for these scientists.

Careers Related to Medical Scientists [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Agricultural and food scientists.

Agricultural and food scientists research ways to improve the efficiency and safety of agricultural establishments and products.

Biochemists and Biophysicists

Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes, such as cell development, growth, heredity, and disease.

Epidemiologists

Epidemiologists are public health professionals who investigate patterns and causes of disease and injury in humans. They seek to reduce the risk and occurrence of negative health outcomes through research, community education, and health policy.

Health Educators and Community Health Workers

Health educators teach people about behaviors that promote wellness. They develop and implement strategies to improve the health of individuals and communities. Community health workers collect data and discuss health concerns with members of specific populations or communities.

Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians

Medical laboratory technologists (commonly known as medical laboratory scientists) and medical laboratory technicians collect samples and perform tests to analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances.

Microbiologists

Microbiologists study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi, and some types of parasites. They try to understand how these organisms live, grow, and interact with their environments.

Physicians and Surgeons

Physicians and surgeons diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses. Physicians examine patients; take medical histories; prescribe medications; and order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests. They counsel patients on diet, hygiene, and preventive healthcare. Surgeons operate on patients to treat injuries, such as broken bones; diseases, such as cancerous tumors; and deformities, such as cleft palates.

Postsecondary Teachers

Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a wide variety of academic and technical subjects beyond the high school level. They may also conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books.

Veterinarians

Veterinarians care for the health of animals and work to improve public health. They diagnose, treat, and research medical conditions and diseases of pets, livestock, and other animals.

More Medical Scientist Information [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

For more information about research specialties and opportunities within specialized fields for medical scientists, visit

American Association for Cancer Research

American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science

American Society for Clinical Pathology

American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics

The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics

The Gerontological Society of America

Infectious Diseases Society of America

National Institute of General Medical Sciences

Society for Neuroscience

Society of Toxicology

A portion of the information on this page is used by permission of the U.S. Department of Labor.

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• How to Become a Medical Researcher – 6 Steps You Must Take
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A medical researcher, sometimes referred to as a medical scientist, carries out scientific studies to enhance our understanding of medicine and how to treat illnesses better. Their work is crucial for pushing healthcare forward, leading to new treatments and technologies that save lives and improve the quality of care for patients.

Those passionate about making their mark in the medical field often find themselves working there. However, despite the rewards this career offers, it requires commitment. Understanding how to get into medical research as well as the steps to take is crucial for determining whether this career is for you. Read on to discover more!

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What is a medical researcher.

A medical researcher plays a crucial role in discovering new ways to improve our health. They conduct experiments to test new medicines or treatments, carefully analyze the results, and then share their findings through publications. This process helps the medical community learn more about diseases and how to combat them.

Medical research is vast and covers various fields. For example, clinical research focuses on testing new treatments or drugs directly on patients to see if they are safe and effective. Epidemiology is the study of how diseases spread and affect different groups of people, helping identify illness patterns and causes. Translational research bridges the gap between laboratory discoveries and real-world medical treatments. It aims to quickly turn scientific findings into practical solutions that can be used in healthcare. Together, these fields of medical research contribute to advancing our understanding of health and disease, leading to better prevention, diagnosis, and treatments.

What Does a Medical Researcher Do?

A medical researcher completes many important tasks. They design studies to answer specific health questions, collect data through experiments or observations, analyze the results to find patterns or answers, and then write research papers to share their findings with others. This process helps improve our understanding of diseases and health.

Medical research is a team effort. Researchers often collaborate with people from different fields, such as biology, statistics, and medicine, to get a well-rounded view of their study. They also collaborate with doctors and healthcare professionals to apply their findings in real-life settings. This teamwork strengthens medical research because it combines knowledge from various areas to tackle health problems more effectively.

How to Become a Medical Researcher?

Becoming a medical researcher is an exciting path for those who want to explore the mysteries of health and disease. The journey to getting there includes a mixture of education, subjects and practical work, ensuring you are equipped with all the skills necessary to succeed in this dynamic field.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Earning a Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or biochemistry is like laying the foundation for future study. It gives you the basic knowledge and skills needed for a career in medical research or related fields. A strong GPA is important because it shows you understand the material well, which is crucial for tackling complex research problems. Also, getting involved in research during your undergraduate studies is a big plus. It gives you a taste of what medical research is like and helps you stand out when applying for further studies or jobs. Together, these steps prepare you for success in the scientific community.

Earn a Medical Degree

Choosing to pursue a medical degree, like an MD program (Doctor of Medicine) or DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine), opens the door to becoming a physician-researcher. At this point, it’s crucial to know what makes a medical school application stand out and approach it strategically. This special path lets you both treat patients and conduct research to find new ways to improve healthcare. As a physician-researcher, you can apply your scientific discoveries directly to patient care, seeing firsthand how your work makes a difference. It’s a challenging but rewarding journey for those passionate about making a lasting impact on health and medicine.

Complete a Three-Year Residency

After earning their medical degree, physician-researchers must complete a residency program. This is a critical step where they work in hospitals or clinics for several years, gaining hands-on experience in treating patients under the supervision of experienced doctors. During residency, they learn a lot about different medical conditions and how to manage them. This period is crucial for building their clinical skills and medical knowledge, preparing them to be both excellent doctors and insightful researchers who can contribute to advancing medical science.

Get a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degree

Obtaining a PhD in a field like biomedical sciences or public health means going deeper into studying and researching a specific area of medicine. This journey starts with taking advanced classes to build your knowledge. Then, the main focus shifts to doing your own research project. You’ll pick a unique question to explore, conduct experiments or studies to find answers, and finally, write a detailed dissertation about what you discovered. This process, which takes several years, prepares you to be an expert in your field, ready to contribute new knowledge to the world of medical research.

Pass the United States Medical Learning Examination (USMLE)

For physician-researchers in the United States, passing the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) is a must to get a medical license. This series of exams tests your knowledge and skills in medicine to ensure you’re ready to provide high-quality care to patients. Part of the test, for example, is the USMLE Step 2 CK , where you will be tested on clinical science. At further stages, it will cover everything from basic medical science concepts to clinical skills. Passing this exam is a big step toward practicing medicine and conducting research that can improve patient care.

Obtain Licensing and Certification

Getting a medical license or certification is highly important for doctor-researchers, depending on what their job or the place they want to work requires. This license proves they have the knowledge and skills to treat patients safely and effectively. For research positions, especially those involving direct patient care, being licensed ensures you meet the high standards needed to conduct medical research ethically and responsibly. It opens doors to more opportunities, allowing researchers to make a more significant impact in both patient care and the medical research community.

What Skills Do You Need to Become a Medical Researcher

Medical researchers need several key skills to be successful at their job, including:

• Analytical Skills : Ability to examine data and extract meaningful insights
• Attention to Detail : Noticing and considering every small part or fact to avoid errors
• Communication Skills : Clearly conveying research findings and ideas, both in writing and speaking, to a variety of audiences
• Teamwork : Collaborating effectively with other researchers, healthcare professionals, and possibly patients
• Critical Thinking : Evaluating information logically and creatively to make reasoned decisions and solve problems
• Problem-Solving Skills : Identifying issues within a study and finding effective solutions
• Ethics : Understanding and applying ethical principles to research involving human or animal subjects
• Time Management : Effectively managing one’s time to balance research, publication deadlines, and possibly clinical duties

Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for medical researchers is bright, with a growing demand for skilled professionals. As we face new health challenges and continue to seek better treatments for diseases, the need for innovative research increases. According to BLS data , the need for medical researchers is projected to grow 10% in the following decade, meaning more opportunities to work in the field.

Salaries in this sector can vary widely. Factors like experience, education, and where you work (e.g., in a big city versus a rural area) can make a big difference in how much you earn. Generally, medical researchers can expect to earn up to $99,930 per year, a salary that reflects the importance and complexity of their work and offers many opportunities for advancement.

To become a successful medical researcher, you need a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, or a related field, followed by advanced training such as a PhD or medical degree. Essential skills include analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication. If you’re passionate about advancing healthcare, start by pursuing relevant education and seeking research opportunities. Dive into the world of medical research and contribute to life-saving discoveries!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can you still be a doctor and do research.

Yes, you can be a doctor and also conduct research. Many physicians split their time between seeing patients and working on research projects to advance medical knowledge.

Can you be a medical researcher without being a doctor?

Yes, you can be a medical researcher without being a doctor. Many researchers have PhDs in fields like biology, biochemistry, or public health instead of medical degrees.

If I want to go into medical research, is biochemistry a good major choice?

Biochemistry is an excellent major for going into medical research. It gives you a solid foundation in the sciences that underpin medicine, helping you understand the chemical processes behind health and disease.

How many years does it take to be a medical researcher?

Becoming a medical researcher typically takes about 8 to 12 years after undergraduate studies, including time spent earning a PhD or MD and gaining additional research experience.

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Why I Chose AUA:

“I was confident going into AUA because of their leadership. It was clear to me from the beginning that the staff and administration from top to bottom were pioneers and leaders in medical education. They showed a great deal of commitment by investing in constructing a brand new state of the art campus while I was there. Although the new campus opened shortly after I left the island, it was encouraging to watch its construction. It let us know that AUA was committed to investing back into its students, and are here to stay for years to come.”

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Physician-Scientists

Physician-scientists are physicians (MDs or DOs with or without additional degrees) who devote regular components of their professional effort seeking new knowledge about health, disease, or delivery of patient care through research. While all physicians receive training in medical science, physician-scientists are those who are trained to conduct independent scientific investigation in the laboratory, clinic, or other setting. A physician scientist’s in-depth clinical knowledge of human health and disease, combined with skills in scientific investigation and analysis, make her uniquely resourceful. Physician-scientists are well prepared to detect new threats to human health; develop potential new therapies, treatments, or means of prevention; communicate knowledgeably across disciplines and to lead scientific teams or organizations; and, guide important policy decisions, such as in drug approval.

Historically, physicians were pioneers in medical science, and often relying on only informal scientific training coupled to their intellectual insight and curiosity. Today, however, most physician-scientists complete formal, usually intensive scientific training in addition to their medical education. There are vibrant examples of physician-scientist training programs that accommodate students entering science at different stages of their medical training or early career. At the same time, the knowledge and skills required for medical education and clinical specialization have also increased for all physicians. Beginning in the 1970s, prominent medical leaders publicly raised the question of whether any individuals could continue to master the growing complexities of both medicine and science, while being adequately sustained by medical institutions and health systems that were also changing. They raised such concerns not to sell their profession short, but to call for added attention and resources to the needs of students and early career physician-scientists. Those calls continue to this day, as the National of Institutes of Health finds that the number of younger physician scientists applying for research support is decreasing, and that the average age of these investigators, including first-time applicants, is increasing.

For those that become academic medical faculty, physician-scientists often teach, perform research, and provide clinical service, and embody in each individual the several missions of the academic medical center. The types of science” that physicians engage in has also broadened, from laboratory and clinical investigation, noted above, to research on health services and implementation, population health, community engagement, and health equity (we also expect a growing need for physicians with expert training in emerging data sciences). The AAMC is committed to the nurturing and growth of new physician-scientists.

AAMC Committee on Creating a Physician-Scientist Training and Career Development Home

The AAMC has convened an expert Committee to develop recommendations for medical schools and teaching hospitals to more comprehensively nurture physician-scientists across the continuum of training and early career development. For more information, visit the Committee Roster (PDF) and the Committee Charge (PDF) .

A National Institutes of Health working group recently concluded—confirming decades of earlier concerns—that the nation is failing to adequately renew and advance the physician-scientist workforce, as too few young physicians are attracted into scientific research or – if attracted—find necessary support or guidance lacking at key stages of their professional development. Several AAMC member institutions have begun to create physician-scientists “homes”, which integrate the support for new physician-scientists across career stages and departments. Such homes may be formal programs, networks, or other communities that support the training and development of individuals pursuing physician-scientist careers. The AAMC Committee will focus on constructive, systemic solutions for medical schools and teaching hospitals to ensure needed support.

In all its deliberations, the Committee embraces the variety of physician-scientist careers, from laboratory-based investigation to research in clinics, health systems, and communities, as well as the multiple training pathways, from integrated dual-degree programs to accumulated, distinct educational experiences, through which individuals attain these careers.

National MD-PhD Program Outcomes Study

A report from the AAMC's Group on Graduate Research, Education, and Training (GREAT) that tracks the careers of MD-PhD dual-degree program graduates over 50 years (1964–2014) and highlights results of a research project that explored their career paths.

NIH Advisory Committee to the Director Physician-Scientist Workforce Working Group

An NIH Advisory Committee to the Director Working Group on the Physician-Scientist Workforce issued a report with “recommendations for actions that NIH should take to support a sustainable and diverse clinical research infrastructure, as well as recommendations for actions needed by other relevant stakeholders.”

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What is a medical research scientist and how to become one

A medical research scientist conducts experiments and analyzes data to advance medical knowledge and improve healthcare. They collaborate with principal investigators and other scientists, often setting up partnerships with global research teams. These scientists may focus on specific areas like vaccine development, disease prevention, or drug efficacy. They adhere to quality control policies, documenting all activities and maintaining laboratory equipment. Medical research scientists plan and conduct experiments, process data, and report findings. They may also manage mouse colonies for genetic research or evaluate tissue proteins for specific responses. Their work can lead to breakthroughs in disease understanding and treatment, contributing to the development of new medical technologies and therapies.

How long does it takes to become a medical research scientist?

It typically takes 9-12 years to become a medical research scientist:

• Years 1-4: Obtaining a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as biology, chemistry, or physics.
• Years 5-8: Completing a Doctoral degree in a related field, including coursework, research, and a dissertation.
• Years 9-10: Accumulating the necessary work experience, such as conducting research, analyzing data, and publishing findings.

On-site and on-the-job training may overlap with accumulating work experience, typically lasting 1-2 years.

Avg. Salary $78,125

Avg. Salary $59,228

Growth Rate 17 %

Growth Rate 0.3 %

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.15 %

Asian 27.22 %

Black or African American 6.28 %

Hispanic or Latino 9.50 %

Unknown 4.08 %

White 52.77 %

female 60.00 %

male 40.00 %

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00 %

Asian 7.00 %

Black or African American 14.00 %

Hispanic or Latino 19.00 %

White 57.00 %

female 47.00 %

male 53.00 %

Stress level is manageable

Complexity Level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work Life balance is fair

Key steps to become a medical research scientist

Explore medical research scientist education requirements.

The educational requirements for a medical research scientist are a doctorate degree in a related field such as biology, biochemistry, medicine, chemistry, or psychology. According to David Cool Ph.D. , Professor of Biology at Wright State University, "The best place to work is wherever you can get a job. Colleges and universities employ people every day. However, the jobs there are usually called 'soft money,' meaning that your job ends when the grant runs out." He further adds that clinical research is expanding greatly in the U.S. now, and universities are starting to create new degree programs designed to train people to run clinical trials.

Most common medical research scientist degrees

Bachelor's

Master's

Start to develop specific medical research scientist skills

A medical research scientist needs a range of skills to excel in their role. They must be adept at conducting experiments, processing data, and preparing reports. They also need to be able to facilitate communication between collaborators, set up academic collaborations, and maintain mouse colonies. Additionally, they should be skilled in activities such as method development and validation, instrument calibration, and instrument maintenance.

Complete relevant medical research scientist training and internships

Research medical research scientist duties and responsibilities.

Medical research scientists have a variety of responsibilities. They set up collaborations, design and execute experiments, and monitor and report on findings. They also perform cell culture work, process experimental data, and prepare reports. As Glenn Starkman , Distinguished University Professor and Co-chair at the Department of Physics at Case Western Reserve University, puts it, "For students planning to head off to graduate school, what really counts is sustained and meaningful research in collaboration with faculty."

• Manage sample inventory via in-house laboratory information management system (LIMS) and implement additional systems for sample and chemical organization.
• Experience working in a GMP regulate environment.
• Experience with``firefight"responses and working with FDA.
• Mouse colony maintenance are paramount, mouse genotyping, data organization.

Prepare your medical research scientist resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your medical research scientist resume.

You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a medical research scientist resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

Choose From 10+ Customizable Medical Research Scientist Resume templates

Apply for medical research scientist jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a medical research scientist job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

• Browse job boards for relevant postings
• Consult your professional network
• Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
• Watch out for job scams

How Did You Land Your First Medical Research Scientist Job

Are you a Medical Research Scientist?

Share your story for a free salary report.

Average medical research scientist salary

The average Medical Research Scientist salary in the United States is $78,125 per year or $38 per hour. Medical research scientist salaries range between $47,000 and $129,000 per year.

What Am I Worth?

How do medical research scientists rate their job?

Medical research scientist reviews.

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Updated June 25, 2024

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The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Medical Research Scientist Related Careers

• Assistant Research Scientist
• Associate Scientist
• Doctoral Fellow
• Laboratory Researcher
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• PHD Researcher
• Postdoctoral Associate
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• Postdoctoral Scholar
• Principal Scientist
• Research And Development Scientist
• Research Fellow
• Research Laboratory Manager
• Research Scientist

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Stanford MD Physician Scientist Programs

Become a Physician-Scientist at Stanford School of Medicine

Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders in Discovery and Care

As part of our mission to train future leaders and scholars in multiple domains, Stanford School of Medicine offers unique, highly flexible curricula that enable MD students to pursue clinical investigation during medical training.

With several degree and non-degree physician-scientist pathways available, most Stanford MD students pursue scholarly investigation and biomedical research – giving them the skills to translate research, create better understanding of disease, and lead clinical trials. In addition to traditional physician-scientist areas such as basic science, students have recently pursued research in diverse areas, including epidemiology, global health, health policy, and clinical trials and biomarkers.

Our novel physician-scientist training programs offer:

• Funding: Opportunities for fully funded research training
• Flexibility: The ability to change pathways to deepen scholarly pursuits
• Faculty Mentorship: One-to-one guidance from faculty physician-scientists

The Physician-Scientist Pathway at Stanford School of Medicine

• Physician-Scientist Training Program : Students engage in a broad range of biomedical research, within the medical school, on the university campus or abroad as part of global health projects led by Stanford faculty.
• Berg Scholars : Berg Scholars pursue a MS in Biomedical Investigation while enrolled in the MD program at Stanford.
• Medical-Scientist Training Program (MSTP, MD/PhD) : One of the nation’s most recognized programs, MSTP trains students and prepares them for careers dedicated to biomedical research.
• *Does not include other non-research master’s degrees
• **Internal MSTP admits who move into MSTP, which typically occurs after MD2, receive full funding the fall quarter after acceptance.

What role do physician-scientists have in medicine?

Physician-scientists — doctors trained as both expert care providers and scientists – possess a mix of skills and expertise that enable them to have central roles in the basic science discovery process, test new diagnostics and therapeutics in clinical settings, and deliver discoveries at individual and societal levels.

Though physician-scientists make up less than 1% of the physician workforce in the United States, they account for 37% of all Nobel laureates in physiology or medicine and some 70% of chief scientific officers of major pharmaceutical companies and National Institutes of Health (NIH) leadership.

What does physician-scientist training at Stanford look like?

Stanford’s MD students admitted into physician-scientist training programs pursue curiosity-driven research to the depth of their interests. This flexibility allows them to transition from one pathway to another as they immerse themselves more into physician scientist training. Some trainees opt for exposure to biomedical research in a non-degree pathway, while others choose to pursue more research-intensive programs and graduate with an MD/MS or MD/PhD.

What is the Split Curriculum?

Stanford's "Split Curriculum" provides medical students an opportunity to acquire in-depth research experience alongside academic coursework. More beneficial than a gap-year approach, the Split Curriculum starts after the first year of medical training, with students dedicating half their time to lectures or clinical activities and the rest for research. Unlike gap year pathways offered by other medical schools, the Split Curriculum is unique to Stanford and allows students to combine research and preclinical coursework over seven consecutive quarters.

What does the funding structure for physician-scientist training look like?

Stanford School of Medicine is committed to creating an environment where a student’s training is defined by their interests, not concerns about future debt. Our clinician-scientist pathways provide full funding for research pursuits, and some pathways also include full funding for the student’s medical training.

Another differentiator, Stanford offers the Medical Scholars Research Program , a fellowship that supports medical student research, including scholarly concentration projects. With MedScholars funding, students carry out research under the direction of faculty members in the medical school, hospital and clinics,  throughout the university, and in some cases across the globe.

Addressing the physician-scientist shortage

The number of U.S. physicians engaged in research has dropped more than 50% over the past 40 years, and this has accelerated since the start of the pandemic. Stanford School of Medicine aims to address this urgent crisis by reinvigorating this pipeline through funding, flexibility, and faculty mentorship. These unprecedented offerings enable Stanford MD students to become physician-scientists who serve as a bridge between biomedical research and patient care. With transformative medical advances on the brink of reality – including cures for genetic illnesses, the ability to program cells, vaccines for cancer, personalized medicine, and AI-enabled medicine – the unique skills of physician-scientists will become only more important to advancing research, translation, and care.

Who should consider becoming a physician-scientist?

Stanford’s physician-scientist pathways are designed for MD students who have an interest in conducting independent scientific investigation during their medical training. The skills developed in these programs have broad application in professional environments, with demand across academia, health systems, and biotech and pharmaceutical companies. Most importantly, Stanford wants to attract and develop the abilities of students who have a keen interest in developing innovative solutions to today’s greatest health challenges.

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What is Health Sciences? Understanding the Basics

By Staff Writer on 08/22/2024

Have you ever stopped to think about the diverse and intriguing world of health sciences? It’s a field that spans centuries of development, includes numerous disciplines and impacts our daily lives in countless ways. From ancient remedies to modern technology, health sciences encompass everything we’ve learned about improving human health and well-being.

Beyond the well-known areas like medicine and nursing, health sciences also cover fields such as epidemiology, nutrition and public health. It involves research and innovation to understand diseases, develop treatments and promote healthy lifestyles.

Health sciences professionals work in various settings, including hospitals, laboratories and community organizations, all striving to enhance the quality of life and health outcomes for individuals and populations.

The history of health sciences

To truly appreciate health sciences, we need to journey back to ancient civilizations. Imagine the Egyptians crafting herbal medicines or the Greeks prioritizing physical fitness. These early efforts were the building blocks of what we now call health sciences.

They were the pioneers, attempting to decode the mysteries of the human body and discovering remedies along the way.

The renaissance breakthroughs in anatomy

Fast forward to the Renaissance, a period of remarkable breakthroughs in anatomy, physiology, and pathology. Think of Leonardo da Vinci's Anatomical Drawings and Andreas Vesalius, whose meticulous dissections and studies (now standard topics in medical school) unveiled the intricate workings of our bodies. Their contributions were significant, influencing the future of health sciences.

Discovering microorganisms and vaccines

Over the centuries, monumental discoveries like microorganisms and vaccines catapulted health sciences into new realms. Imagine the excitement of scientists as they unveiled the hidden world of microbes, leading to giant leaps in microbiology and immunology. These advancements transformed our approach to preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases.

Public health challenges and innovations in the industrial revolution

The industrial revolution was a game-changer for health sciences. As factories sprang up and cities grew, public health challenges emerged. Enter visionaries like Florence Nightingale , who championed modern nursing and the crucial role of sanitation in healthcare in the 19th century.

Thanks to her and others, patient care improved dramatically. This era also saw the birth of specialized health science programs and degrees, with universities launching courses in medicine, nursing and public health.

The birth of modern nursing in the 19th century

Jumping to the 20th century, medical technology and pharmaceuticals saw unprecedented growth. Think about Alexander Fleming ’s discovery of antibiotics – a milestone that greatly impacted bacterial infection treatment and saved innumerable lives.

At the same time, the human genome mapping paved the way for personalized medicine, introducing targeted therapies based on individual genetics. Medical schools were at the heart of these innovations, training the next generation of health science professionals and driving research forward.

Major disciplines in health sciences

Health sciences cover a broad spectrum of disciplines, each playing an important role in our understanding of health and disease. Most higher education institutions have medicine and nursing as two separate fields of study, with health sciences (covering many potential career paths) as a third field.

Let’s take a closer look at a few key areas:

• Pharmacology

Pharmacology delves into the intricate world of drugs, studying their origins, chemical properties, biological effects, and therapeutic uses. Pharmacologists research and develop new medications, ensuring their safety and efficacy.

This field bridges the gap between laboratory science and clinical practice, contributing to the advancement of personalized medicine and improved treatment outcomes.

Rasmussen University does not offer any programs that will lead to the career opportunity of Pharmacologist.

• Public health

Public health focuses on the health of communities and populations, aiming to prevent disease and promote health through education, policy-making and preventive measures.

Public and community health professionals work on issues such as infectious disease control, environmental health and health promotion. Their efforts lead to improved quality of life and increased life expectancy on a population scale.

• Biomedical sciences

Biomedical scientists investigate the cellular and molecular foundations of human health and disease. They conduct research to understand how biological processes affect the body, leading to the development of new diagnostic tools, treatments and therapies.

Their discoveries pave the way for advancements in medical science and technology.

Rasmussen University does not offer any programs that will lead to the career opportunity of biomedical scientist.

Nutrition explores the relationship between diet and health, aiming to promote balanced eating habits for optimal physical and mental well-being.

Nutritionists and dietitians assess dietary needs, develop nutrition plans, and educate individuals and communities on healthy eating practices. Their work helps prevent and manage health conditions related to diet, such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Rasmussen University does not offer any programs that will lead to the career opportunity of nutritionist.

• Physical therapy

Physical therapy is dedicated to helping individuals recover from injuries and disabilities through targeted exercise, manual therapy and other physical methods. Physical therapists assess and treat movement dysfunctions, develop rehabilitation plans and provide education on injury prevention. Their goal is to restore function, improve mobility and enhance the quality of life for their patients.

These disciplines often work in synergy, each contributing unique perspectives and expertise to the vast landscape of health sciences. Through collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches, professionals in these fields aim to improve the health outcomes of individuals and communities.

Rasmussen University does not offer any programs that will lead to the career opportunity of physical therapist.

Curious about the career opportunities that a health sciences degree can unlock?

Discover the diverse paths you can pursue with a health sciences degree and see how you can make an impact in the healthcare industry.

Practical applications in health sciences careers

The practical applications of health sciences are all around us, impacting our lives in both small and significant ways. Here are a few examples:

Vaccinations

They’ve been crucial in preventing the spread of infectious diseases, safeguarding both individuals and communities.

Cancer therapies

Advances in oncology mean more effective treatments, better survival rates, and improved quality of life for those battling cancer.

Health education and promotion

By educating the public on healthy living, we empower people to take charge of their health and reduce chronic disease risks.

Epidemiology and outbreak management

Health scientists in this field study disease patterns and work to control outbreaks, a critical role highlighted during recent health crises.

Rehabilitation

From physical therapy to post-surgery recovery, these strategies help individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life.

These practical applications highlight the tangible and meaningful impact that health sciences have on individuals, communities, and society as a whole.

Health sciences careers offer diverse and rewarding opportunities, with projected growth in healthcare occupations and advancements in healthcare leading to a wide range of career and graduate school opportunities.

Emerging trends in health science

The health sciences are continually evolving, with several emerging trends shaping the future of healthcare. These trends are addressing current challenges, aiming to improve patient care, and expanding our understanding of health and disease.

Fusing technology and healthcare

One prominent trend is the integration of technology and healthcare. The digital age has led to the development of innovative tools and platforms, such as telemedicine and wearable devices, enabling remote consultations and real-time monitoring of vital signs.

This integration allows for more accessible and personalized healthcare, particularly for individuals in remote areas or with limited mobility.

AI and machine learning

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning is revolutionizing the healthcare industry. These technologies have the potential to analyze vast amounts of medical data, identify patterns, and assist in diagnosing diseases.

AI-powered algorithms can help healthcare professionals make more accurate and timely decisions, leading to improved patient outcomes. There are even efforts to integrate AI into medical and nursing simulation--allowing for more efficient and immersive training experiences for healthcare professionals.

A focus on prevention

Another emerging trend is the focus on preventive health care rather than solely disease management. Health sciences professionals are emphasizing the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles, early screenings and vaccinations to prevent diseases before they occur.

By shifting the emphasis to prevention, healthcare systems can reduce the burden of chronic diseases and improve overall population health.

Mental health as physical health

The growing recognition of the mind-body connection is another notable trend.

Healthcare professionals are acknowledging the influence of mental health on physical well-being and vice versa. This holistic approach fosters a more comprehensive understanding of health and promotes integrated care that addresses both physical and mental aspects of a person’s well-being.

Medicine tailored to your DNA

Personalized medicine is gaining traction in the field of health sciences. With advancements in genetic testing and molecular diagnostics, healthcare professionals can tailor treatments to an individual’s unique genetic makeup.

This precision medicine approach aims to allow for more targeted therapies, minimizing side effects and enhancing treatment efficacy.

The continuous pursuit of health and well-being

With ongoing research, technological advancements and interdisciplinary collaboration, we can look forward to a future where healthcare is more accessible, personalized and effective.

Health science programs play a crucial role in preparing students for these emerging trends and advancements in health sciences. These programs ensure that health sciences graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and contribute to advancements in healthcare.

Health sciences are a multidisciplinary field that encompasses various historical, major disciplines, practical applications and emerging trends. Get an idea of what careers are involved by checking out  Allied Health Professionals: Who Are They and What Do They Do?

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Posted in General Health Sciences

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• Health and Wellness
• health sciences

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