Immunologists study how the immune system works and investigate immune responses involved in diseases, infections, allergies and other health conditions. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish a separate national wage category specifically for Immunologists, so this guide uses the $103,410 median annual wage and $49.72 median hourly wage reported for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in May 2025 as the primary federal salary benchmark for research-focused immunology careers. Individual Immunologist compensation can differ by experience, location, research specialization, employer, education, industry and employment arrangement.
Immunologists study the immune system and investigate how immune responses relate to infections, autoimmune disorders, allergies, cancer and other diseases. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish a separate national wage category specifically for Immunologists. Its May 2025 data reports a median annual wage of $103,410 and a median hourly wage of $49.72 for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists. This occupation provides the primary federal salary benchmark for research-focused Immunology careers, although individual Immunologist compensation can vary by experience, location, specialization, employer, education and industry.
BLS reported a $103,410 national median annual wage for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in May 2025. This broader scientific occupation is used as the federal salary benchmark for research-focused Immunologists because BLS does not maintain a separate Immunologist wage category.
Dividing the BLS median annual wage of $103,410 by 12 produces an approximate monthly equivalent of $8,618. This is a mathematical conversion and not a separately reported Immunologist monthly salary from BLS.
The May 2025 BLS data reports a $49.72 median hourly wage for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists. Actual Immunologist hourly compensation can differ depending on research specialization, experience, employer, location, education and job responsibilities.
BLS reported approximately 125,300 jobs for Medical Scientists in 2024. This employment figure represents the broader Medical Scientists occupation and is not a separate employment count for Immunologists.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish a separate national salary category exclusively for Immunologists. The May 2025 BLS data reports $103,410 as the median annual wage and $49.72 as the median hourly wage for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists. SalaryPayslip therefore uses this official federal scientific wage category as the primary benchmark for research-focused Immunologist compensation. Actual pay may differ based on research field, laboratory or clinical setting, geographic location, experience, advanced education, specialization, employer and other compensation factors.
| Salary Metric | BLS-Based Benchmark |
|---|---|
| BLS Median Annual Wage | $103,410 per year |
| Monthly Equivalent | Approximately $8,618 per month |
| Weekly Equivalent | Approximately $1,989 per week |
| BLS Median Hourly Wage | $49.72 per hour |
| BLS Occupational Category | Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (19-1042) |
| Immunologist-Specific BLS Salary | Not separately published |
| Actual Immunologist Compensation | May vary with research setting, experience, state, specialization, education, employer, industry and employment arrangement |
BLS May 2025 wage data reports a median annual wage of $103,410 and a median hourly wage of $49.72 for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists. BLS does not separately identify Immunologists in its national wage table. The monthly and weekly amounts above are calculated from the annual federal wage benchmark and are provided for comparison only.
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Immunologist salaries generally increase as professionals gain research experience, advanced scientific expertise, leadership responsibilities and specialized knowledge. Because the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish Immunologist salaries by years of experience, the following benchmarks use the May 2025 BLS wage distribution for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists, the closest federal salary category for research-focused Immunologists. These figures show how compensation can progress from lower-paid positions toward the upper end of the occupation.
| Career Experience Benchmark | Annual Salary Benchmark | Hourly Benchmark |
|---|---|---|
| Early-Career / Lower Wage Range | Below $64,800 | Below $31.15 per hour |
| Developing Career / 25th Percentile | Approximately $79,840 | Approximately $38.38 per hour |
| Mid-Career / National Median | $103,410 | $49.72 per hour |
| Experienced / 75th Percentile | Approximately $139,380 | Approximately $67.01 per hour |
| Highly Experienced / Top 10% | Above $177,780 | Above $85.47 per hour |
BLS does not publish separate Immunologist salaries by years of experience. The figures above use the broader Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists occupation as a federal benchmark. Actual Immunologist compensation can vary with experience, specialization, employer, location, education and job responsibilities.
Immunologist compensation can vary significantly by state because research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology employers, hospitals and laboratory facilities are concentrated differently across the country. Because BLS does not publish a separate state salary category for Immunologists, the following figures use the May 2025 median wages for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists as the closest federal benchmark for research-focused Immunology careers.
| State | Median Annual Wage | Median Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| California | $136,990 | $65.86 per hour |
| New Jersey | $129,280 | $62.16 per hour |
| Massachusetts | $128,210 | $61.64 per hour |
| Connecticut | $116,990 | $56.25 per hour |
| Arizona | $116,820 | $56.16 per hour |
| Oregon | $111,030 | $53.38 per hour |
| Maryland | $106,000 | $50.96 per hour |
| Washington | $105,680 | $50.81 per hour |
| Rhode Island | $103,370 | $49.70 per hour |
| Tennessee | $102,720 | $49.39 per hour |
| Pennsylvania | $99,190 | $47.69 per hour |
| Florida | $94,940 | $45.64 per hour |
| Virginia | $93,620 | $45.01 per hour |
| Georgia | $92,450 | $44.45 per hour |
| Minnesota | $89,950 | $43.25 per hour |
| New York | $87,760 | $42.19 per hour |
| Michigan | $84,310 | $40.53 per hour |
| Kansas | $84,490 | $40.62 per hour |
| Iowa | $83,850 | $40.31 per hour |
| Utah | $82,940 | $39.88 per hour |
State figures are BLS-based benchmarks for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists and should not be treated as separate Immunologist salary reports. Actual pay can vary by employer, specialization, experience, education, research setting and location.
Immunologist compensation can differ depending on the type of organization and research environment. Research and development organizations, pharmaceutical companies, hospitals and medical laboratories employ scientists working on immune-related research and biomedical investigations. The following figures use May 2025 BLS median wages for Medical Scientists as a federal benchmark rather than separate Immunologist salary data.
| Employer & Research Setting | Median Annual Wage |
|---|---|
| Research & Development in Physical, Engineering & Life Sciences | $125,700 per year |
| Pharmaceutical & Medicine Manufacturing | $106,800 per year |
| Hospitals; State, Local & Private | $98,620 per year |
| Medical & Diagnostic Laboratories | $81,910 per year |
| National Medical Scientists Median | $103,410 per year |
These figures are BLS benchmarks for Medical Scientists and are not separately reported salaries for Immunologists. Actual compensation can vary by employer, research specialization, experience, location, education and job responsibilities.
Immunologists study the immune system and investigate how immune responses affect human health and disease. Their work can involve laboratory research, clinical investigation, experimental studies and analysis of immune-related biological processes. Depending on their specialization, Immunologists may focus on infections, autoimmune disorders, allergies, cancer, immunodeficiencies, vaccines or other immune system conditions.
| Immunologist Responsibility | Typical Work Focus |
|---|---|
| Immune System Research | Study immune cells, antibodies, signaling pathways and immune responses. |
| Disease & Infection Research | Investigate how immune responses contribute to infections, autoimmune conditions, allergies and other diseases. |
| Laboratory Experiments | Design and conduct experiments involving biological samples, cells, proteins and other laboratory materials. |
| Clinical & Translational Research | Connect laboratory findings with potential applications for diagnosis, prevention and treatment. |
| Data Analysis & Scientific Reporting | Analyze experimental results, prepare scientific reports and communicate research findings. |
| Research Collaboration | Work with physicians, laboratory scientists, researchers and other healthcare or scientific professionals. |
Immunology careers can range from laboratory-based scientific research to clinical and translational work. Specific responsibilities depend on the employer, specialization, education and research environment.
The highest-paying Immunology opportunities are often associated with research-intensive industries, pharmaceutical development and advanced biomedical research. BLS does not publish separate salary figures for individual Immunology specializations, so the following benchmarks use Medical Scientists industry wage data to show the types of settings where higher compensation may be available.
| Career Opportunity / Setting | BLS Median Annual Wage Benchmark |
|---|---|
| Biomedical & Life Sciences Research | $125,700 per year |
| Pharmaceutical & Medicine Research | $106,800 per year |
| Hospital-Based Medical Research | $98,620 per year |
| Medical & Diagnostic Laboratory Research | $81,910 per year |
| Academic & University Research | $74,970 per year |
These figures are BLS Medical Scientist industry benchmarks rather than separate Immunologist salaries. Higher-paying opportunities may be found in research-intensive and pharmaceutical environments, depending on specialization, experience, education, employer and location.
Immunologists investigate how the immune system recognizes, responds to and protects the body from biological threats. Their research can examine immune cells, antibodies, proteins, signaling pathways and interactions between the immune system and other biological systems. Experimental work may involve cell-based studies, molecular analysis, laboratory testing and evaluation of immune responses under controlled conditions.
| Research Area | Typical Immunology Work |
|---|---|
| Immune Cell Research | Study the function, development and interaction of immune cells involved in immune responses. |
| Antibody & Protein Analysis | Investigate antibodies, immune proteins and molecular mechanisms involved in immune recognition. |
| Immune Signaling | Examine cellular signaling pathways that regulate immune activation and inflammatory responses. |
| Experimental Studies | Design laboratory experiments to evaluate immune mechanisms and test scientific hypotheses. |
| Data Interpretation | Analyze experimental results and identify patterns that can support further immunology research. |
Immunology research combines biological science, laboratory experimentation and data analysis to improve understanding of immune system function and disease.
Immunologists may investigate how immune responses contribute to infections, autoimmune disorders, allergies, inflammatory diseases and other health conditions. This work helps researchers understand disease mechanisms and can contribute to the development of improved diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic approaches.
| Research Focus | Typical Immunologist Activities |
|---|---|
| Infectious Diseases | Study how immune responses recognize and respond to bacteria, viruses and other infectious agents. |
| Autoimmune Disorders | Investigate situations where immune activity mistakenly targets healthy cells or tissues. |
| Allergy & Hypersensitivity | Examine immune reactions associated with allergens and abnormal immune responses. |
| Inflammatory Conditions | Study biological pathways involved in inflammation and immune regulation. |
| Cancer Immunology | Research interactions between the immune system and cancer cells and investigate potential immune-based approaches. |
| Immune Deficiencies | Study conditions in which immune system components do not function normally or provide adequate protection. |
Disease-focused Immunology research can connect fundamental immune system science with laboratory and clinical research aimed at understanding and addressing human disease.
Some Immunologists work in research environments that connect laboratory findings with clinical questions. Clinical and translational research may involve biological samples, immune biomarkers, experimental protocols, laboratory analysis and interpretation of findings that could support future medical applications.
| Clinical Research Area | Typical Work |
|---|---|
| Biological Sample Analysis | Examine blood, tissue and other biological samples to investigate immune activity and disease-related processes. |
| Biomarker Research | Investigate measurable biological indicators that may help understand disease or immune responses. |
| Clinical Study Support | Contribute scientific and laboratory expertise to studies evaluating potential medical interventions or biological mechanisms. |
| Laboratory Protocols | Develop, follow and refine standardized procedures for research experiments and laboratory investigations. |
| Results Evaluation | Interpret laboratory findings and compare results with research objectives and scientific evidence. |
Clinical and laboratory research requires careful experimental design, accurate analysis, documentation and adherence to applicable research and laboratory procedures.
Immunology research is often collaborative and can involve scientists, physicians, laboratory professionals, statisticians, research coordinators and other specialists. Immunologists must communicate research findings clearly through scientific reports, presentations, publications and collaborative research projects.
| Collaboration Area | Typical Immunologist Contribution |
|---|---|
| Multidisciplinary Research | Work with researchers from biology, medicine, genetics, pharmacology and other scientific disciplines. |
| Research Documentation | Record experimental procedures, observations, results and research methodologies accurately. |
| Scientific Publications | Prepare research findings for scientific papers, reports and other professional publications. |
| Conference Presentations | Present research results and discuss findings with scientific and medical communities. |
| Research Data Communication | Explain experimental results and scientific conclusions to collaborators, research teams and relevant stakeholders. |
Strong scientific communication and collaboration skills are important for Immunologists working on multidisciplinary research and complex biomedical projects.
Education and advanced scientific training can strongly influence the types of Immunology positions available and the level of responsibility a professional can take on. Research-focused Immunologists commonly pursue advanced graduate or professional education, while specialized training can prepare them for laboratory research, translational science, clinical investigation and leadership roles.
| Education & Training Level | Typical Career Opportunities |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | Provides foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry and related life sciences and can support entry-level laboratory or research positions. |
| Master's Degree | Provides additional scientific and laboratory training and may qualify professionals for more specialized research responsibilities. |
| Ph.D. in Immunology or Related Life Science | Common advanced pathway for independent biomedical research, scientific investigation, university research and research leadership. |
| Medical Degree | Can support clinical and research-oriented careers involving immune-related diseases, patient care and translational research. |
| Postdoctoral Research Training | Provides advanced research experience and specialized expertise before independent scientific or academic positions. |
BLS reports that Medical Scientists typically need a doctoral or professional degree. Education, advanced training, specialization and research experience can affect the level and type of Immunology position available.
Becoming an Immunologist generally requires a strong foundation in the life sciences followed by advanced education and specialized research training. The exact pathway depends on whether the goal is laboratory research, academic science, biotechnology, pharmaceutical research or clinical practice.
| Career Step | What It Involves |
|---|---|
| 1. Complete Undergraduate Education | Study biology, biochemistry, chemistry, microbiology or another relevant life-science field. |
| 2. Gain Laboratory Experience | Develop practical experience through university laboratories, research projects, internships or research assistant positions. |
| 3. Complete Advanced Education | Pursue a Ph.D., medical degree or another advanced qualification appropriate to the intended Immunology career path. |
| 4. Develop Immunology Expertise | Focus on areas such as cellular immunology, molecular immunology, immunopathology, infectious disease or cancer immunology. |
| 5. Complete Specialized Research Training | Build advanced research experience through postdoctoral training, fellowships or specialized scientific positions when required. |
| 6. Pursue Professional Opportunities | Apply for research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, academic, laboratory or clinical opportunities based on education and qualifications. |
The pathway to an Immunology career varies by specialization. Research positions generally emphasize advanced scientific education and laboratory experience, while clinical pathways may require medical training and appropriate professional licensing.
Immunologists can strengthen their professional qualifications through advanced degrees, specialized research training, laboratory experience, professional development and demonstrated expertise in specific areas of Immunology. Credential requirements depend on the role, employer and whether the position involves clinical practice or scientific research.
| Qualification | Professional Value |
|---|---|
| Ph.D. or Professional Degree | Supports advanced scientific research, independent investigation and specialized professional roles. |
| Postdoctoral Training | Builds deeper expertise through advanced research under experienced scientists and research teams. |
| Laboratory Research Experience | Demonstrates practical ability to conduct experiments, analyze samples and follow research protocols. |
| Scientific Publications | Can demonstrate research productivity and expertise within a specialized area of Immunology. |
| Professional Research Training | Provides opportunities to develop current knowledge of laboratory methods, research practices and emerging scientific technologies. |
| Clinical Qualifications | Additional medical education and applicable professional licensing may be required for Immunologists involved in clinical practice. |
There is no single universal credential that defines every Immunologist career in the USA. Requirements depend on the position, employer, specialization and whether the work is research-based or clinical.
Immunologists need a combination of scientific knowledge, laboratory techniques, analytical ability and communication skills. The most valuable skills depend on whether the professional works in academic research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, clinical research or another scientific environment.
| Skill | How It Supports Immunology Work |
|---|---|
| Immunology & Life Science Knowledge | Understand immune cells, antibodies, immune responses, inflammation and related biological processes. |
| Laboratory Research | Perform experiments, handle biological samples and apply appropriate research procedures. |
| Data Analysis | Evaluate experimental results, identify patterns and interpret scientific data. |
| Critical Thinking | Develop research questions, evaluate evidence and solve complex scientific problems. |
| Scientific Writing | Prepare research reports, manuscripts, technical documents and scientific presentations. |
| Attention to Detail | Maintain accurate experimental procedures, measurements, records and research documentation. |
| Team Collaboration | Work effectively with scientists, physicians, laboratory professionals and other research specialists. |
Successful Immunologists combine strong scientific knowledge with practical research, analytical and communication skills. Specialized laboratory expertise can become increasingly important as careers progress.
An Immunology career can develop through progressively advanced research, scientific and leadership responsibilities. Professionals may begin with laboratory or research positions and later move into specialized scientific, academic, biotechnology, pharmaceutical or research leadership roles.
| Career Stage | Typical Career Development |
|---|---|
| Research Assistant | Support laboratory experiments, sample preparation, data collection and research projects. |
| Research Scientist | Conduct specialized research, analyze findings and contribute to scientific projects. |
| Senior Research Scientist | Lead complex experiments, develop research strategies and guide junior research professionals. |
| Principal Scientist | Direct major scientific projects and contribute to research strategy, innovation and scientific decision-making. |
| Research Director | Oversee research programs, scientific teams, project priorities and organizational research objectives. |
| Academic or Scientific Leadership | Lead university laboratories, research programs, departments or multidisciplinary scientific initiatives. |
Advancement typically depends on education, research experience, specialization, scientific contributions, leadership ability and the type of organization where an Immunologist works.
Immunologists employed by universities, research organizations, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, hospitals and other institutions may receive compensation packages that extend beyond base salary. Benefits can vary substantially according to employer, employment status, seniority and work setting.
| Compensation or Benefit | What It May Include |
|---|---|
| Base Salary | Regular compensation determined by position, experience, qualifications, employer and location. |
| Health Insurance | Employer-sponsored medical, dental or vision coverage where offered. |
| Retirement Benefits | Employer retirement plans or institutional retirement contributions. |
| Paid Time Off | Vacation, holidays, sick leave and other paid leave depending on the employer. |
| Research Support | Access to laboratory facilities, research resources, professional development or conference opportunities. |
| Bonuses & Incentives | Performance bonuses, research incentives or other additional compensation may be available in some organizations. |
| Academic Benefits | University positions may provide opportunities for teaching, research funding, academic collaboration and professional development. |
Benefits and total compensation vary by employer and employment arrangement. Research institutions, universities, pharmaceutical companies and private organizations may offer substantially different compensation packages.
Employment opportunities for Immunologists are connected to broader demand for medical research, biomedical science, pharmaceutical development, biotechnology and laboratory investigation. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not publish a separate employment outlook specifically for Immunologists, so the broader Medical Scientists occupation provides the closest federal outlook benchmark.
| Outlook Indicator | BLS Medical Scientists Benchmark |
|---|---|
| Employment Growth, 2025–2035 | 13% |
| Projected Growth Compared With Average | Much faster than average |
| Average Annual Openings | Approximately 10,500 |
| Primary Growth Drivers | Biomedical research, disease research, pharmaceutical development and advances in medical science |
The BLS outlook applies to the broader Medical Scientists occupation rather than Immunologists specifically. Demand for Immunology-related research can also be influenced by developments in biotechnology, infectious disease, immune therapies and biomedical research.
Immunology is expected to remain an important area of biomedical research as scientists continue studying immune responses, chronic diseases, infections, cancer and emerging therapies. Advances in biotechnology and molecular research are creating new opportunities for scientists who can combine immunology expertise with modern laboratory and analytical methods.
| Emerging Area | Potential Impact on Immunology Careers |
|---|---|
| Cancer Immunology | Continued research into how immune mechanisms can be studied and used in cancer treatment strategies. |
| Immune-Based Therapies | Growing scientific interest in treatments that modify or harness immune responses. |
| Precision Medicine | More detailed analysis of individual biological and immune characteristics may support personalized approaches to disease research. |
| Biotechnology | Advances in biotechnology can expand laboratory research and development opportunities involving immune-related applications. |
| Infectious Disease Research | Continued investigation of immune responses to emerging and existing infectious diseases. |
| Computational & Data-Driven Research | Advanced data analysis and computational methods can help researchers study complex biological and immune-system datasets. |
The future of Immunology will increasingly combine traditional laboratory science with biotechnology, advanced data analysis and translational research. Professionals who develop both specialized scientific expertise and modern research skills may be well positioned for evolving opportunities.
Internationally educated scientists and healthcare professionals may pursue Immunology careers in the United States after meeting the education, professional qualification, research experience and employment requirements that apply to their intended career path. Depending on the role, international applicants may need to demonstrate the equivalency of their academic background, obtain appropriate credentials and satisfy employer or state-specific requirements.
Professionals who completed their education outside the United States may pursue research and Immunology opportunities after demonstrating that their academic training and scientific background are appropriate for the position.
International applicants may need academic transcripts, degree records, research documentation and other professional information reviewed to establish the relevance of their previous education and qualifications.
A relevant master's degree, Ph.D., medical degree or advanced research training can support access to specialized Immunology positions, depending on the employer and type of scientific work.
Experience with U.S. research practices, laboratory procedures, scientific documentation, data analysis and collaborative research environments can help internationally educated professionals adapt to American research workplaces.
Requirements for internationally educated Immunology professionals vary according to education, credentials, specialization, employment type and whether the position involves research or clinical practice. Candidates should verify current requirements with the relevant U.S. institution, professional organization, state authority or prospective employer before starting the application process.
SalaryPayslip uses official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data as the primary federal source for this Immunologist salary guide. Because BLS does not publish a separate national wage category specifically for Immunologists, this guide uses Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists (SOC 19-1042) as the closest federal benchmark for research-focused Immunology careers. BLS describes this occupation as covering research related to human disease, human health, clinical investigation and research and development.
| Data Source / Method | How It Is Used |
|---|---|
| U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics | Primary federal source for Medical Scientist wage, employment and career outlook information. |
| Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists | Used as the closest BLS occupational benchmark for research-focused Immunologists because Immunologist is not separately reported. |
| May 2025 Wage Data | Used for national wage benchmarks, wage distribution and industry comparisons in this guide. |
| State Wage Data | Used to compare Medical Scientist wage benchmarks across U.S. states and show geographic differences. |
| Monthly & Weekly Calculations | Annual BLS wage figures are divided by 12 for monthly equivalents and by 52 for weekly equivalents. |
| Career & Education Information | BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook information is used for education, employment outlook, work environment and career requirements. |
BLS does not separately publish Immunologist salary data. SalaryPayslip therefore uses the closest relevant federal Medical Scientists benchmark and clearly identifies calculated figures and occupation-based estimates. Actual Immunologist compensation may differ by specialization, employer, location, education and experience.
The resources below can help current and aspiring immunologists research scientific career requirements, immunology education, biomedical research, professional development, employment information, workforce trends and research opportunities across the United States.
Education pathways, research opportunities, professional requirements and employment practices 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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Read GuideImmunologist salary in the USA , which reported a median annual wage of $103,410 in May 2025. Actual Immunologist compensation can vary significantly based on specialization, experience, employer, location, education and type of research or clinical work.
Using the May 2025 BLS median annual wage of $103,410 for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists, the simple monthly equivalent is approximately $8,618. This figure is calculated by dividing the annual benchmark by 12 and is not a separately reported Immunologist monthly salary. Actual monthly earnings depend on the employer, career level, specialization and compensation structure.
The May 2025 BLS data reports a median hourly wage of approximately $49.72 for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists. This provides a useful federal benchmark for research-focused Immunology careers, although an individual Immunologist's effective hourly compensation can differ based on employment arrangement, research responsibilities, location and professional experience.
Immunology is a specialized area of biomedical and life-science research, but the BLS does not publish a separate national salary category for Immunologists. Within the broader Medical Scientists occupation, the May 2025 median was $103,410, while the highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $177,780. Individual Immunology salaries can therefore fall substantially above or below the national benchmark depending on specialization, employer and career level.
State compensation can vary considerably for research-focused Immunology careers. BLS-derived wage data for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists shows median annual wages of approximately $136,990 in California, $129,280 in New Jersey and $128,210 in Massachusetts. These figures provide state-level market context but are not separate Immunologist-specific salary reports.
Experience can contribute to higher compensation as Immunologists develop advanced expertise in immune-system research, experimental methods, data analysis, scientific publication and specialized areas such as cancer immunology or infectious disease research. In the broader BLS wage distribution, annual pay ranges from below $64,800 at the lower end to above $177,780 for the highest-paid 10 percent, illustrating the potential range across the occupation.
Research-focused Immunologists typically require advanced education in biology, immunology, biomedical science or a related field. The BLS reports that Medical Scientists commonly need a doctoral or professional degree, with many pursuing a Ph.D. or related advanced research qualification. Specialized laboratory experience and postdoctoral training can also be important for research-intensive positions.
A Ph.D. is common for research-focused Immunology careers, particularly positions involving independent scientific research, laboratory leadership and academic or biotechnology research. Some Immunology professionals may follow medical-degree or other professional pathways depending on whether their work focuses on clinical practice, translational research or laboratory science.
Internationally educated scientists may pursue Immunology careers in the United States after meeting the academic, employment and immigration requirements applicable to their intended position. Depending on the role, employers may evaluate foreign degrees, research experience, publications, laboratory skills and other qualifications before making an employment decision.
Immunologist compensation can be influenced by research specialization, education, professional experience, geographic location, employer type, laboratory or research setting and level of responsibility. BLS May 2025 industry data shows median wages of $125,700 in research and development, $106,800 in pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing, and $98,620 in hospitals for the broader Medical Scientists occupation.
Immunology can offer long-term opportunities across biomedical research, pharmaceutical development, biotechnology, academic science, infectious disease research and immune-based therapies. The BLS projects employment for Medical Scientists to grow by 13% from 2025 to 2035, with about 10,500 openings per year across the broader occupation. Actual opportunities for Immunologists depend on specialization, research funding, employer demand and qualifications.
Immunology combines advanced biological science with the study of the immune system, disease mechanisms and immune responses. Immunologists contribute to biomedical research, drug development, infectious disease studies, autoimmune research, cancer immunology and other areas focused on improving human health.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a $103,410 median annual wage for Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in May 2025, with a median hourly wage of approximately $49.72. Because the BLS does not publish a separate national wage category specifically for Immunologists, these figures are used as a federal benchmark for research-focused Immunology careers rather than as a guaranteed Immunologist salary.
Actual Immunologist earnings can vary based on advanced education, research experience, specialization, geographic location, employer type, laboratory or research setting and level of professional responsibility. Compensation may also include health coverage, retirement benefits, paid leave, research support, bonuses and other employer-provided benefits.
Immunology can be a strong long-term scientific career for professionals interested in immune-system research, biomedical science and disease investigation. When evaluating opportunities, consider education, research training, specialization, employer, location, career advancement and the complete compensation package rather than relying on a single salary figure.
The Immunologist salary information published by SalaryPayslip is intended for general educational and informational purposes. Scientific and medical research 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 Immunologist salary guides. Because the BLS does not publish a separate national wage category for Immunologists, Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists occupational statistics are used as the federal benchmark and are kept distinct from Immunologist-specific market information.
The BLS wage information referenced in this guide applies to the broader Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists occupational category and does not determine the income of an individual Immunologist. 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 healthcare labor market.