How to become a medical scientist, except epidemiologists
Conduct research dealing with the understanding of human diseases and the improvement of human health. Engage in clinical investigation, research and development, or other related activities.
Steps to get there
Most employers expect most of these occupations require graduate school. for example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a ph.d., m.d., or j.d. (law degree)..Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.
What medical scientists, except epidemiologists do
- Follow strict safety procedures when handling toxic materials to avoid contamination.
- Plan and direct studies to investigate human or animal disease, preventive methods, and treatments for disease.
- Conduct research to develop methodologies, instrumentation, and procedures for medical application, analyzing data and presenting findings to the scientific audience and general public.
- Teach principles of medicine and medical and laboratory procedures to physicians, residents, students, and technicians.
- Write and publish articles in scientific journals.
- Write applications for research grants.
Skills that matter most
- Writing
- Speaking
- Science
- Active Learning
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Mathematics
Is medical scientist, except epidemiologists a good career?
On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 103% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.
Where it pays most
- California $136,990
- New Jersey $129,280
- Massachusetts $128,210
- Connecticut $116,990
- Arizona $116,820
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists salary by state and city
Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.