▼12%
$160,785
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$116k
MEDIAN
$161k
90%
$294k
The average salary for a Research Scientist is $160,785 in 2025
Base Salary
$116k - $294k
Bonus
$0 - $20k
Total Pay
$116k - $325k
Is Average Research Scientist Salary at International Business Machines (IBM) Corp. your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Research Scientists?
What Do Research Scientists Do?
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Research Scientist
Medical
92%
Dental
75%
Vision
67%
None
8%
Gender Breakdown for Research Scientists
Male
60.0%
Female
40.0%
This data is based on 10 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Research Scientists
What is the highest pay for Research Scientists?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Research Scientist is $294k / year
What is the lowest pay for Research Scientists?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Research Scientist is $116k / year
How can Research Scientists increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Research 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 Research Scientist that oversees more junior Research Scientists, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.