Position
Salary
Becoming a laboratory scientist offers a rewarding career with a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for a laboratory scientist is $63,920. This means most scientists earn somewhere around this amount each year. Salaries can vary depending on experience, education, and the specific industry.
A breakdown of the salary distribution shows that many scientists fall within a certain range. For instance, about 23.13% of scientists earn between $42,440 and $49,869 each year. Another 17.79% earn between $49,869 and $57,298. These figures provide a clear picture of what to expect in terms of earnings. The highest earners, making over $116,731 annually, make up a smaller percentage of the workforce. This shows that while most earn a solid income, a few top earners make significantly more.

Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $87,932
In Baltimore, scientists can find work at renowned research institutions like Johns Hopkins University. The city offers a mix of cutting-edge research and a vibrant community. Opportunities in biotechnology and health sciences are plentiful.
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Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $73,997
Lansing boasts a range of opportunities in research and development, with companies like General Motors focusing on innovation. The city supports a collaborative work environment, where scientists can contribute to advancements in various fields.
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Lexington, KY
Average Salary: $67,084
Lexington is home to the University of Kentucky, a hub for scientific research and innovation. The city’s culture values academic and scientific excellence, offering numerous opportunities for growth and collaboration.
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Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $62,667
In Albuquerque, scientists can engage with Sandia National Laboratories and the University of New Mexico. The city’s unique environment fosters innovation, providing a chance to work on cutting-edge projects.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $53,460
Nashville offers a growing number of opportunities in medical research and pharmaceuticals. Companies like Vanderbilt University Medical Center create a dynamic work environment, focusing on health and scientific advancements.
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Jackson, MS
Average Salary: $52,869
Jackson provides a supportive atmosphere for scientific research, with institutions such as the University of Mississippi Medical Center. The city’s focus on healthcare innovation offers many avenues for professionals to contribute significantly.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $51,268
Denver is known for its vibrant scientific community and outdoor lifestyle. Companies like the National Renewable Energy Laboratory offer exciting opportunities for those interested in environmental science and technology.
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Fargo, ND
Average Salary: $47,518
Fargo supports a growing field of agricultural and environmental research. Institutions like North Dakota State University provide ample opportunities for scientists to engage in meaningful work and research.
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State of Michigan
Average Salary: $76,180
The State of Michigan offers rewarding Laboratory Scientist jobs across various locations. Employees work in state-of-the-art labs, contributing to public health and safety. Key locations include Lansing, Detroit, and Ann Arbor.
TriCore Reference Laboratories
Average Salary: $68,098
TriCore Reference Laboratories provides competitive salaries for Laboratory Scientists. They operate in New Mexico and offer a dynamic work environment. Locations include Albuquerque and Farmington.
University of Kentucky
Average Salary: $66,779
The University of Kentucky employs skilled Laboratory Scientists in Lexington. They focus on cutting-edge research and teaching. Lexington is a vibrant city with a supportive work environment.
West Virginia
Average Salary: $56,229
West Virginia offers Laboratory Scientist positions with a good salary. Locations include Charleston and Morgantown. Employees work in public health labs, making a real impact on the community.
Alverno Clinical Laboratories
Average Salary: $50,867
Alverno Clinical Laboratories provides Laboratory Scientist jobs with a solid salary. They operate in Illinois and Missouri. Their labs in Springfield and St. Louis offer a collaborative and growing environment.
Quest Diagnostics
Average Salary: $43,945
Quest Diagnostics is a leader in diagnostic information services. They offer Laboratory Scientist jobs in various locations across the U.S. The company emphasizes innovation and patient care.
Laboratory scientists often focus on the analysis of biological and chemical samples. They work in many fields, from healthcare to environmental science. If someone in this role seeks to earn more, they can take several steps. These steps can help increase knowledge, skills, and value in the job market. Increasing value often leads to higher pay.
Here are five ways a laboratory scientist can earn more: