πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ USA Healthcare & Science Salaries

Geneticist Salary in the United States 2026

Geneticists study genes, heredity and biological variation across research, clinical and laboratory settings. BLS does not publish a separate national wage category for Geneticists, so this guide uses the May 2025 $98,920 median annual wage and $47.56 median hourly wage for Biological Scientists, All Other as the closest federal salary benchmark. Actual Geneticist pay can vary by experience, education, specialization, location, employer and work setting.

Research Team SalaryPayslip Research Team
Updated
Reading Time 15 Minutes
Category Healthcare & Laboratory Careers

Geneticist Salary in USA: Quick Answer

Geneticists research genes, heredity, genetic variation and biological processes across laboratory, clinical, academic and research environments. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish a separate national wage category specifically for Geneticists. O*NET identifies Geneticists under the broader BLS occupation Biological Scientists, All Other. For May 2025, that federal benchmark reports a median annual wage of $98,920 and a median hourly wage of $47.56. Individual Geneticist compensation can differ according to education, experience, specialization, employer, location and professional responsibilities.

BLS Biological Scientists Median Annual Wage
$98,920

BLS reported a $98,920 median annual wage for Biological Scientists, All Other in May 2025. O*NET includes Geneticists within this broader occupational category, making it the closest federal wage benchmark for Geneticist careers.

Estimated Monthly Equivalent
β‰ˆ $8,243

Dividing the BLS median annual benchmark of $98,920 by 12 produces an approximate monthly equivalent of $8,243. This is a mathematical conversion and not a separately reported monthly salary for Geneticists.

BLS Biological Scientist Median Hourly Wage
$47.56

The May 2025 BLS data reports a $47.56 median hourly wage for Biological Scientists, All Other. This broader occupational benchmark is used for Geneticist salary comparison because Geneticists are not separately reported by BLS.

BLS Biological Scientists Employment
59,600

BLS reported approximately 59,600 jobs for Biological Scientists, All Other in 2025. This employment figure represents the broader occupation and is not a separate count of Geneticists.

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Geneticist Salary Benchmark Note

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish a separate national salary category exclusively for Geneticists. O*NET places Geneticists under Biological Scientists, All Other, for which BLS reported a $98,920 median annual wage and $47.56 median hourly wage in May 2025. SalaryPayslip uses this official federal occupational benchmark for Geneticist salary comparison. Actual pay can vary by education, experience, specialization, location, employer and work setting.

Table of Contents

Geneticist Salary Table in USA: Annual, Monthly, Weekly & Hourly Benchmark

Salary Metric BLS-Based Benchmark
BLS Median Annual Wage $98,920 per year
Monthly Equivalent Approximately $8,243 per month
Weekly Equivalent Approximately $1,902 per week
BLS Median Hourly Wage $47.56 per hour
BLS Occupational Category Biological Scientists, All Other (19-1029)
Geneticist-Specific BLS Salary Not separately published
Actual Geneticist Compensation May vary with education, experience, state, specialization, employer, research setting, industry and employment arrangement
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Federal Salary Data Note

BLS May 2025 wage data reports a median annual wage of $98,920 and a median hourly wage of $47.56 for Biological Scientists, All Other. Geneticists are included within this broader occupational category, and BLS does not separately publish a national wage category specifically for Geneticists. The monthly and weekly amounts above are calculated from the annual federal wage benchmark and are provided for comparison only. Actual Geneticist earnings may differ based on education, experience, specialization, location, employer, research setting and professional responsibilities.

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Geneticist Salary by Experience in USA

Career Experience Level Annual Salary Benchmark Hourly Benchmark
Early-Career / Lower Wage Range $60,430 or less $29.05 or less per hour
Developing Genetics Career Around $76,800 Approximately $36.92 per hour
Mid-Career / National Benchmark $98,920 $47.56 per hour
Experienced / Advanced Career Around $127,670 Approximately $61.38 per hour
Highest-Paid Wage Range $168,010 or more $80.77 or more per hour
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Experience & Salary Note

The BLS does not report a Geneticist-specific salary progression by years of experience. These figures represent the national wage distribution for Biological Scientists, All Other, an occupational category that includes Geneticists. Actual Geneticist compensation can vary with education, specialization, research experience, location, employer, laboratory or clinical setting and level of scientific responsibility.

Geneticist Salary by State in USA

Geneticist pay can differ considerably across the United States because research activity, biotechnology employment, healthcare demand, academic institutions and local labor markets vary by state. The table below uses BLS 2025 wage data for Biological Scientists, All Other, the broader occupational category that includes Geneticists, as the federal salary benchmark.

State Annual Salary Benchmark Hourly Benchmark
California $113,530 per year $54.58 per hour
Massachusetts $108,850 per year $51.49 per hour
Maryland $121,680 per year $58.50 per hour
New Jersey $104,750 per year $50.36 per hour
Maine $104,570 per year $50.28 per hour
Utah $93,250 per year $44.83 per hour
Indiana $84,570 per year $40.66 per hour
Mississippi $91,170 per year $43.83 per hour
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State Salary Benchmark Note

State wage figures are based on the broader Biological Scientists, All Other occupation used by O*NET for Geneticists. Actual Geneticist compensation may differ depending on specialization, education, experience, employer, research environment, local demand and the type of genetics work performed.

Geneticist Salary by Employer in USA

Geneticist compensation can vary depending on whether professionals work in scientific research, government, pharmaceutical manufacturing, universities or other scientific organizations. Because BLS does not publish separate employer salary data specifically for Geneticists, the benchmarks below use the broader Biological Scientists, All Other occupation, which includes Geneticists.

Employer / Industry Setting Annual Salary Benchmark
Scientific Research and Development Services $114,650 per year
Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing $115,290 per year
Federal, State and Local Government $95,830 per year
Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories $96,520 per year
Colleges, Universities and Professional Schools $73,000 per year
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Employer Salary Benchmark Note

Employer-level wage differences reflect the broader Biological Scientists, All Other occupation rather than Geneticist-specific compensation. Geneticist earnings can also depend on research specialization, education, experience, job responsibilities, geographic location, employer type and the scientific environment in which the work is performed.

Highest-Paying Geneticist Career Opportunities in USA

Genetics Career Path Relevant Salary Benchmark
Senior Geneticist Around $127,670 annually
Genomics Research Scientist Around $127,670 annually
Molecular Genetics Specialist Around $98,920 annually
Genetics Laboratory Manager Potentially above $127,670 annually
Advanced Biomedical Research Scientist Up to $168,010+ annually
Senior Genetics Research Leader $168,010+ annually
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Highest-Paying Career Note

These figures are federal wage benchmarks for Biological Scientists, All Other rather than Geneticist-specific salary guarantees. Higher-level Genetics positions may offer stronger compensation when they involve advanced specialization, research leadership, complex laboratory work or greater scientific responsibility.

Geneticist Role & Responsibilities in USA

Geneticists are scientific professionals who study genes, DNA, heredity and genetic variation across laboratory, research, academic and biomedical settings. Their work can contribute to understanding inherited traits, genetic conditions, disease mechanisms and biological processes. Depending on their specialization, Geneticists may collaborate with molecular biologists, physicians, laboratory scientists, bioinformaticians and other research professionals.

🧬 Genetic Analysis & Research

Study genes, DNA sequences and genetic variations to investigate biological traits, inherited conditions and molecular processes.

πŸ”¬ Laboratory Investigation

Conduct laboratory experiments, analyze biological samples and apply specialized molecular techniques to investigate genetic questions.

πŸ§ͺ Molecular & Genomic Testing

Use laboratory methods and genomic technologies to examine genetic material and identify relevant biological patterns or variations.

πŸ“Š Genetic Data Analysis

Review and interpret genetic and biological data while applying scientific methods to identify relationships, patterns and meaningful research findings.

πŸ₯ Biomedical & Clinical Research

Contribute to research involving inherited disorders, disease mechanisms, human genetics and potential diagnostic or therapeutic applications.

πŸ“‹ Research Documentation & Reporting

Record experimental procedures, maintain accurate laboratory information, prepare scientific reports and communicate research findings to collaborating teams.

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Genetics Work Environment

Geneticists may work in research laboratories, universities, biotechnology organizations, pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, medical laboratories or other scientific environments. Daily responsibilities vary according to the area of genetics, research objectives, employer, laboratory resources and level of professional responsibility.

Genetic Analysis & Laboratory Research in the USA

Geneticists use laboratory-based methods to investigate DNA, genes, chromosomes and inherited biological characteristics. Their research may involve examining biological samples, identifying genetic variations, conducting molecular experiments and evaluating how specific genetic changes influence cells, organisms or biological processes. Depending on the research environment, Geneticists may work with specialized laboratory equipment and established analytical techniques to produce reliable scientific findings.

Laboratory research can also involve preparing samples, documenting experimental procedures, analyzing results and comparing findings with existing scientific evidence. Geneticists may design experiments to investigate particular genetic questions and repeat or refine laboratory procedures when additional evidence is required. Careful recordkeeping, quality procedures and attention to laboratory protocols are important parts of this work.

Genomics & Molecular Genetics in the USA

Genomics focuses on the study of genetic material at a broader scale, including genes, genomes and interactions between different genetic elements. Geneticists working in this area may examine DNA sequences, genomic variation and molecular mechanisms that help explain biological traits and disease-related processes. Advances in sequencing technologies and molecular analysis have expanded the range of research questions that Geneticists can investigate.

Molecular genetics can involve studying how genes are organized, expressed and regulated within cells. Geneticists may combine laboratory techniques with computational analysis to interpret genetic information and identify patterns that are relevant to research. This work is used across academic science, biotechnology, biomedical research, pharmaceutical development and other areas where understanding genetic mechanisms is important.

Geneticists Clinical Genetics & Biomedical Research in the USA

Geneticists involved in biomedical research study the relationship between genetic variation, biological function and human health. Their work may focus on inherited conditions, disease mechanisms, genetic risk factors or molecular pathways associated with particular health conditions. In research-oriented environments, Geneticists can contribute laboratory evidence that supports the development of improved diagnostic methods, therapeutic research and broader understanding of genetic disease.

Clinical and biomedical genetics research often requires collaboration between laboratory scientists and healthcare professionals. Geneticists may analyze research samples, interpret genetic findings, evaluate experimental results and contribute to studies involving patients or biological specimens. Their specific responsibilities depend on the research program, institution, specialization and level of professional involvement.

Geneticists Research Collaboration & Scientific Communication in the USA

Genetics research is frequently conducted through multidisciplinary teams that bring together Geneticists, molecular biologists, laboratory scientists, physicians, bioinformaticians and other research specialists. Geneticists may contribute their expertise to study design, laboratory investigations, genetic data interpretation and evaluation of research results. Effective collaboration helps connect genetic findings with wider biological, clinical and scientific questions.

Scientific communication is also an important part of a Geneticist's work. Professionals may prepare research reports, contribute to scientific papers, present findings to research teams and explain laboratory results using appropriate scientific terminology. Maintaining clear documentation and communicating evidence accurately helps research teams evaluate findings, reproduce methods and develop further investigations.

Geneticist Salary by Education and Advanced Training in the USA

Education level can influence the type of Genetics position a professional can pursue, particularly in research-intensive and specialized scientific environments. Geneticists may enter the field through undergraduate study in genetics, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related life-science discipline. More advanced positions can require graduate-level education that provides deeper training in genetic research, laboratory methods and scientific analysis.

A master's degree can provide additional preparation for specialized laboratory and research roles, while a doctoral degree such as a Ph.D. can be important for independent research, university-level scientific work and advanced genetics investigations. Postdoctoral research may further develop expertise in areas such as genomics, molecular genetics, population genetics or biomedical research. Education alone does not determine compensation, and actual earnings can also depend on experience, specialization, employer, location and professional responsibilities.

How to Become a Geneticist in the USA

The path to becoming a Geneticist generally begins with a strong academic foundation in the biological sciences. Students can pursue a bachelor's degree in genetics, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related field while developing knowledge of genetics, cell biology, chemistry, laboratory science and scientific research methods. Laboratory experience and undergraduate research can provide useful preparation for future Genetics careers.

Professionals seeking advanced research responsibilities may continue into a master's or doctoral program focused on genetics, genomics, molecular biology or another relevant scientific discipline. Graduate training can include independent research, laboratory experimentation, genetic data analysis and scientific publication. Depending on the intended career direction, additional postdoctoral research or specialized laboratory training may help prepare candidates for advanced scientific positions.

After completing the appropriate education and training, Geneticists can pursue opportunities in universities, research institutions, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical organizations, government agencies and scientific laboratories. Career progression typically involves building research expertise, developing specialized technical skills and taking on increasing scientific responsibility.

Geneticists Professional Credentials & Laboratory Qualifications in the USA

Credential requirements for Geneticists vary according to the type of position and the laboratory or research environment. Many research-focused Genetics roles emphasize academic qualifications, scientific experience, research publications and demonstrated laboratory expertise rather than a single universal Geneticist license. Professionals working in specialized laboratory environments may also need to meet employer-specific technical, quality and regulatory requirements.

Geneticists can strengthen their professional profile through advanced training in molecular genetics, genomics, genetic testing, laboratory methods, bioinformatics and related scientific disciplines. Depending on their responsibilities, additional laboratory qualifications or specialized certifications may be relevant to particular positions. Continuing education is also useful because genetic technologies, sequencing methods and laboratory practices continue to evolve.

Professional development can include participation in scientific organizations, research conferences, continuing education programs and specialized training. The most appropriate credentials depend on the Geneticist's career direction, employer, laboratory responsibilities and whether the role is focused primarily on research, biotechnology, clinical applications or academic science.

Geneticist Skills in the USA

Geneticists need a combination of biological science knowledge, laboratory ability, analytical thinking and research skills to investigate genes, genetic variation and biological processes. Strong attention to detail is important because Genetics work can involve complex experimental procedures, genetic datasets, laboratory observations and scientific documentation. Professionals also need to understand research methods and apply evidence carefully when evaluating scientific findings.

🧬 Genetics & Molecular Biology

Understand genes, DNA, heredity, molecular processes and genetic variation to investigate biological questions and research problems.

πŸ”¬ Laboratory Techniques

Apply appropriate laboratory procedures, handle biological samples and use specialized equipment for genetic and molecular research.

πŸ“Š Data Analysis

Analyze genetic, laboratory and biological data while identifying patterns, relationships and results that support scientific conclusions.

πŸ’» Genomics & Computational Tools

Work with genomic information and computational methods used to examine large datasets, genetic sequences and molecular research findings.

πŸ§ͺ Experimental Design

Develop and follow research procedures, evaluate experimental results and refine scientific methods when additional investigation is required.

πŸ“ Scientific Communication

Document research accurately, prepare scientific reports and communicate findings clearly with researchers, laboratory teams and other professionals.

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Geneticist Skill Development

Geneticists can strengthen their careers by combining laboratory expertise with data analysis, genomics, research design and scientific communication. The most valuable skills can vary according to specialization, employer, research environment and the type of Genetics work performed.

Geneticist Career Path Opportunities in USA

Geneticist careers can develop across academic research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical science, government laboratories, biomedical research and other scientific environments. Early-career professionals often focus on building laboratory and research experience before moving into more specialized scientific positions. Career progression can involve greater technical responsibility, independent research, project leadership or management of specialized laboratory activities.

πŸŽ“ Early-Career Genetics Research

Build foundational experience through laboratory research, biological analysis, genetics projects and scientific support roles.

πŸ”¬ Research Geneticist

Conduct genetics research, perform laboratory investigations and contribute to studies involving genes, DNA, heredity and biological variation.

🧬 Genomics Specialist

Develop deeper expertise in genomic analysis, sequencing technologies and the interpretation of complex genetic information.

🏭 Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Research

Apply Genetics knowledge to drug development, biotechnology research, biomedical investigations and laboratory-based scientific projects.

πŸ“‹ Senior Research Leadership

Lead research projects, guide laboratory teams, evaluate scientific results and take responsibility for more complex investigations.

πŸ›οΈ Academic & Scientific Careers

Pursue advanced research, university-based science, teaching, publications and collaborative projects within academic or research institutions.

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Career Advancement Note

Career progression for Geneticists depends on education, research experience, specialization, technical skills and the type of organization where they work. Advanced scientific roles may involve independent research, project leadership, specialized laboratory responsibilities or management of research programs.

Geneticist Benefits & Compensation in the USA

Geneticist compensation can include more than base salary. Depending on the employer and employment arrangement, professionals may receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement contributions, paid time off, professional development support and other workplace benefits. Academic, government, biotechnology, pharmaceutical and private-sector employers may offer different compensation structures and benefit packages.

Research-focused Geneticists may also receive support for scientific conferences, continuing education, professional memberships or specialized training. Some positions can provide opportunities to work with advanced laboratory technologies, participate in collaborative research programs and develop expertise in emerging areas of Genetics and genomics. The overall value of a compensation package therefore depends on both salary and the benefits associated with the position.

Professionals should compare total compensation rather than base pay alone when evaluating Genetics career opportunities. Factors such as retirement plans, insurance coverage, paid leave, research funding, professional development opportunities, work environment and long-term advancement can all influence the overall value of a position.

Genetics Employment Outlook in USA

The employment outlook for Geneticists is connected to broader demand for biological scientists, biomedical research, biotechnology and genetics-based scientific work. O*NET places Geneticists within the Biological Scientists, All Other occupational category for federal employment and wage data. This broader category is used as the closest available national benchmark because BLS does not publish a separate employment outlook specifically for Geneticists.

Employment opportunities can be influenced by research funding, biotechnology development, pharmaceutical research, advances in genomic technology and demand for scientific expertise. Geneticists with strong laboratory, computational, molecular and research skills may be positioned for opportunities across universities, government organizations, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical businesses and scientific research institutions.

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Genetics Employment Outlook Note

Federal employment projections should be interpreted using the broader Biological Scientists, All Other occupation rather than as a Geneticist-only forecast. Individual opportunities can vary by specialization, geographic area, research funding, employer demand and the level of education and technical expertise required for a position.

Future of Genetics in the USA

The future of Genetics is closely connected to continued advances in genomics, DNA sequencing, molecular biology, computational analysis and biomedical research. As researchers gain access to larger genetic datasets and more sophisticated laboratory technologies, Geneticists can contribute to increasingly detailed investigations of biological variation, inherited conditions and disease mechanisms.

Genomics and computational biology are also creating new opportunities for professionals who can combine traditional laboratory expertise with data analysis and bioinformatics. Biotechnology and pharmaceutical organizations continue to use genetic and molecular research in areas such as drug development, disease research and biological discovery. These developments can expand the range of scientific projects available to Genetics professionals.

Future Genetics careers are likely to reward professionals who continue developing technical expertise and adapting to new research technologies. Knowledge of genomic methods, laboratory science, computational tools, scientific analysis and interdisciplinary collaboration can help Geneticists remain competitive as the field evolves.

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Future Genetics Career Note

Emerging technologies can create new scientific opportunities, but future employment and compensation will continue to depend on research investment, technology adoption, employer demand, specialization, education and the broader U.S. scientific and healthcare environment.

International Geneticist Career Pathways in the USA

🌍 Foreign-Trained Geneticists

Scientists who completed their Genetics, Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology or related education outside the United States may apply for research and laboratory opportunities when their academic and technical background matches the employer's requirements.

πŸ“‹ International Degree Evaluation

Employers, universities or other institutions may request academic transcripts, degree documentation and evaluations to understand the equivalency and relevance of international educational qualifications.

πŸŽ“ Advanced Research Qualifications

A master's degree, Ph.D. or other advanced scientific training can support access to specialized Genetics research positions, particularly in genomics, molecular genetics, biomedical research and related fields.

πŸ”¬ U.S. Research & Laboratory Experience

Experience with U.S. laboratory practices, research methods, scientific documentation, genomic technologies and multidisciplinary research teams can help international professionals transition into American scientific work environments.

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International Geneticist Career Note

Requirements for foreign-trained Geneticists vary according to education, research specialization, employer, position type and immigration or employment authorization requirements. International applicants should verify current academic, professional and employment requirements directly with the relevant U.S. university, research organization, employer or appropriate government authority before applying.

Geneticist Salary Data Research Methodology in the USA

SalaryPayslip uses official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and O*NET occupational information as the primary federal sources for this Geneticist salary guide. Because BLS does not publish a separate national wage category specifically for Geneticists, this guide uses Biological Scientists, All Other (SOC 19-1029) as the closest federal wage benchmark. O*NET identifies Geneticists under 19-1029.03 and connects their wage and employment data to the broader Biological Scientists, All Other occupation.

Data Source / Method How It Is Used
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Primary federal source for Biological Scientists, All Other wage, employment and occupational projection information used as the Geneticist salary benchmark.
O*NET β€” Geneticists Used to identify Geneticists under SOC 19-1029.03 and establish the connection between the Geneticist occupation and the broader Biological Scientists, All Other wage category.
Biological Scientists, All Other Used as the closest BLS occupational salary benchmark because BLS does not separately publish national wage data specifically for Geneticists.
May 2025 Wage Data Used for the national Geneticist salary benchmark, wage distribution and hourly pay comparisons presented throughout this guide.
State Wage Data Used to compare Biological Scientists, All Other wage benchmarks across selected U.S. states and illustrate geographic differences in Geneticist pay.
Monthly & Weekly Calculations Annual federal wage figures are divided by 12 for monthly equivalents and by 52 for weekly equivalents. These amounts are mathematical conversions rather than separately reported BLS monthly or weekly wages.
Career & Education Information BLS and O*NET occupational information is used for education, skills, employment trends, work activities, training and career requirements.
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Methodology Note

BLS does not separately publish Geneticist salary data. SalaryPayslip therefore uses the Biological Scientists, All Other occupation as the closest federal wage benchmark and uses O*NET to identify Geneticists under SOC 19-1029.03. The national benchmark and wage distribution in this guide come from BLS 2025 data. Monthly and weekly figures are calculated from the annual benchmark, while actual Geneticist compensation can vary according to education, experience, specialization, location, employer and research environment.

Genetics Career & Professional Resources in the USA

The resources below can help current and aspiring Geneticists research scientific education, genetics research, laboratory careers, professional development, employment information, workforce trends and opportunities across the United States.

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Resource Note

Genetics education pathways, laboratory technologies, professional requirements and employment opportunities can change over time. Use current information from federal agencies, recognized scientific organizations, universities and individual employers when making education, research or career decisions.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Geneticist Salaries in the USA

What is the average Geneticist salary in the USA?

Geneticist salary in the USA, median annual wage of $98,920 This is the closest federal salary benchmark for Geneticist careers, although actual pay can differ according to education, experience, specialization, employer and location.

How much does a Geneticist earn per month in the USA?

Based on the BLS May 2025 median annual wage of $98,920 for Biological Scientists, All Other, the equivalent monthly amount is about $8,243. This is calculated by dividing the annual figure by 12 and should be viewed as a salary conversion rather than an independently reported monthly wage for Geneticists.

What is the hourly pay for a Geneticist?

The May 2025 BLS wage data shows a median hourly wage of $47.56 for Biological Scientists, All Other, the broader occupation that includes Geneticists according to O*NET. Individual Geneticists may earn more or less than this benchmark depending on their research specialization, qualifications, employer and professional experience.

Can Geneticists earn more than the national salary benchmark?

Yes. Geneticist compensation can exceed the national median as professionals gain advanced education, specialized research expertise and greater responsibility. The BLS wage distribution for Biological Scientists, All Other shows annual wages of around $127,670 at the 75th percentile and $168,010 or more at the 90th percentile. These figures represent the broader occupational wage distribution rather than Geneticist-specific salary levels.

Which states pay Geneticists the most?

State wage levels vary across the United States. In the 2025 O*NET wage data for Geneticists, which uses the broader Biological Scientists, All Other occupation, the median annual wage was approximately $121,680 in Maryland, $113,530 in California and $108,850 in Massachusetts. These figures provide geographic salary benchmarks rather than separately reported Geneticist-only wages.

Does experience affect Geneticist salary?

Experience can influence Geneticist earnings as professionals develop deeper knowledge of genomics, molecular genetics, laboratory research, genetic data analysis and specialized scientific methods. BLS does not publish a Geneticist-specific salary progression by years of experience, but the broader wage distribution ranges from $60,430 or less at the lower end to $168,010 or more for the highest-paid 10 percent.

What education is required to become a Geneticist?

Genetics careers can begin with an undergraduate degree in genetics, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or another related life-science field. More advanced research positions commonly require graduate-level training, with master's and doctoral programs providing deeper preparation in laboratory research, genomics, molecular genetics and scientific investigation. Education requirements ultimately depend on the specific Genetics position and employer.

Do Geneticists need a Ph.D.?

A Ph.D. is particularly valuable for Geneticists pursuing independent research, advanced scientific investigation, university research or senior research positions. However, not every Genetics-related role requires a doctorate. Some laboratory, technical and applied scientific positions may accept bachelor's or master's-level qualifications together with relevant laboratory and research experience.

Can international students and foreign-trained Geneticists work in the USA?

Internationally educated scientists may pursue Genetics opportunities in the United States through universities, research institutions, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical organizations and other scientific employers. Foreign-trained applicants may need to demonstrate the relevance of their education and research experience and meet applicable employment authorization or immigration requirements. Specific requirements depend on the employer and position.

What factors influence Geneticist salaries in the USA?

Geneticist compensation can be affected by education, research experience, genetics specialization, geographic location, employer, industry and level of scientific responsibility. BLS industry data for the broader Biological Scientists, All Other occupation has also shown substantial differences between employment settings, with higher-paying opportunities occurring in areas such as scientific research, pharmaceutical manufacturing and other specialized scientific industries.

Conclusion

Genetics brings together molecular biology, heredity, genomics and laboratory science to understand how genes and genetic variation influence biological processes. Geneticists contribute to scientific research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, biomedical studies and the investigation of inherited and disease-related biological mechanisms.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a $98,920 median annual wage for Biological Scientists, All Other in May 2025, with a median hourly wage of $47.56. O*NET identifies Geneticists within this broader occupational category because BLS does not publish a separate national wage category specifically for Geneticists. These figures therefore provide a federal salary benchmark rather than a guaranteed Geneticist salary.

Actual Geneticist earnings can differ according to education, research experience, genetics specialization, geographic location, employer, industry, laboratory environment and level of scientific responsibility. Total compensation may also include health insurance, retirement contributions, paid leave, professional development support, research benefits and other employer-provided compensation.

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Bottom Line

Genetics can provide a rewarding long-term scientific career for professionals interested in genes, genomics, laboratory research and biomedical discovery. When comparing opportunities, consider education, research training, specialization, employer, location, advancement potential and the complete compensation package instead of focusing on one salary benchmark alone.

Salary Disclaimer

The Geneticist salary information published by SalaryPayslip is intended for general educational and informational purposes. Scientific research and laboratory compensation may differ based on experience, education, qualifications, employer, geographic area, research specialization, work setting, professional responsibilities and other employment conditions.

Salary figures and employment details included in this guide should not be considered guaranteed earnings, employment offers or contractual compensation. Annual amounts and calculated monthly, weekly or hourly equivalents are provided for comparison and research purposes. Readers should verify current compensation information with prospective employers, state authorities, professional organizations and reliable U.S. labor-market sources.

SalaryPayslip uses publicly available government wage statistics, scientific workforce information and established professional resources when preparing its Geneticist salary guides. Because the BLS does not publish a separate national wage category for Geneticists, Biological Scientists, All Other occupational statistics are used as the federal benchmark through the O*NET Geneticist occupational classification and are kept distinct from Geneticist-specific market information.

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Important Notice

The BLS wage information referenced in this guide applies to the broader Biological Scientists, All Other occupational category and does not determine the income of an individual Geneticist. Actual compensation can change with professional experience, specialization, location, research employer, qualifications, work responsibilities, benefits, funding conditions and changes in the U.S. scientific and biotechnology labor market.