▲10%
$116,051
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$62k
MEDIAN
$116k
90%
$141k
The average salary for a Principal Scientist is $116,051 in 2025
Base Salary
$62k - $141k
Bonus
$0 - $10k
Total Pay
$64k - $145k
Is Average Early-Career Principal Scientist with Molecular Biology Skills Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
Use our tool to get a personalized report on your market worth.What's this?
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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
100%
Dental
80%
Vision
80%
Gender Breakdown for Principal Scientists
Female
75.0%
Male
25.0%
This data is based on 4 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 $141k / year
What is the lowest pay for Principal Scientists?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Principal Scientist is $62k / 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.