▼6%
£52,750
Avg. Base Salary (GBP)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (GBP)
10%
£37k
MEDIAN
£53k
90%
£67k
The average salary for a Principal Scientist is £52,750 in 2025
Base Salary
£37k - £67k
Bonus
£985 - £10k
Profit Sharing
£0 - £3k
Total Pay
£38k - £73k
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Principal Scientists?
What Do Principal Scientists Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Principal Scientist
Medical
66%
Dental
30%
Vision
18%
None
32%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Scientists
Male
63.0%
Female
29.6%
Prefer to self-define
7.4%
This data is based on 27 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Principal Scientists
What is the highest pay for Principal Scientists?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Principal Scientist is £67k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Scientists?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Scientist is £37k / year
How can Principal Scientists increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Principal Scientist is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Principal Scientist that oversees more junior Principal Scientists, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.