Across the industry starting salaries vary greatly. A research scientist will generally receive a yearly wage of £21k. Working within the pharmaceutical companies offers a more attractive wage due to the size and nature of the industry where a student will generally start on £23k and working in this area can lead to good progression and salary rises.

A candidate that has completed their PhD and is taking up a research position can expect to earn between £25k and £34k. After gaining experience a candidate can become a senior research developer, who will be involved in project management can earn £45k.

Working within the NHS as a Medical scientist generally has a good starting wage between £21k and £26k where once again there will be senior positions available working as team leaders or in management roles where candidates can earn more than £35k a year. As a public sector role there is confidence in the job security, although similar positions are available in the private sector and will offer higher wages.