▼44%
R461,343
Avg. Base Salary (ZAR)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (ZAR)
10%
ZAR 21k
MEDIAN
ZAR 461k
90%
ZAR 645k
The average salary for a Research Scientist is R461,343 in 2025
Base Salary
R21k - R645k
Bonus
R5k - R38k
Profit Sharing
R0 - R13k
Total Pay
R72k - R669k
Is Average Mid-Career Research Scientist Salary in South Africa 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
13%
None
88%
Gender Breakdown for Research Scientists
Female
66.7%
Male
33.3%
This data is based on 12 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 ZAR 645k / year
What is the lowest pay for Research Scientists?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Research Scientist is ZAR 21k / 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.