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Salary and Benefits

Principal Scientist
$80K-$97K / yr. (est.)
$80K
$88,996 / year
$98K
Average base salary
The salary information provided is based on data collected from various reliable sources and may vary depending on individual qualifications and other factors.

About Principal Scientist

What does a Principal Scientist do?

In the role of Principal Scientist, we are responsible for leading complicated technical research projects. We handle the investigations of different projects by implementing new principles and techniques that can meet the research standards. We operate the scientific test equipment and identify the issues that arise and its functionality. Functioning as Principal Scientists, we are accountable for helping the technicians of the laboratories to facilitate them with the maintenance requirements. We also participate in the development of new projects and their experimental research. Our main goal is to achieve the desired results of each project by presenting our findings.

Core tasks:

  • working collaboratively with other scientists
  • identifying new principles for the execution of research
  • following the guidelines of our supervisors
  • participating in the training programmes of our laboratories
  • performing other duties as assigned

Insights

How Many Years of Experience Do Professionals Need Before Becoming Principal Scientist?
On average, people work 7+ years in other positions prior to becoming a Principal Scientist.
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Data AnalystSan Francisco, CA - A year ago
I've been grinding for so long to become a Principal Scientist, and now I see this? It's frustrating. 😤
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GeneticistDallas, TX - A year ago
7+ years to reach this position, but they have no idea about the hard work and achievements it takes. 🏆
How Long Do Principal Scientist Employees Typically Stay in Their Roles?
On average, Principal Scientists works in this position for 5+ years across multiple employers.
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Graduate Research AssistantAustin, TX - A year ago
Honestly, I can't imagine staying in the same job as a Principal Scientist for so long. Aren't they bored? I want to explore different opportunities and grow!
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Laboratory TechnicianSeattle, WA - A year ago
Being a Principal Scientist for such a long time indicates that they are doing something right. It's not easy to maintain such a position in a competitive field like this!
What Is the Job Hopper Score for Principal Scientist Employees?
Moderate job changes in Principal Scientist, showing some career movement without excessive turnover.
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Principal ScientistChicago, IL - A year ago
Even though I hold a PhD, career movement isn't always easy in this field. The competition in research and dwindling funding makes it challenging for Principal Scientists to explore new opportunities!😔
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Principal ScientistHouston, TX - A year ago
I might not hold a PhD, but I've observed that staying committed to a single institution as a Junior Principal Scientist opens doors to becoming an essential part of collaborations and publication success!

Career path

Path to job

Discover a Principal Scientist's areas of knowledge sorted by their majors.
Explore the list of higher education institutions that a Principal Scientist typically studied at.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Rutgers University-Camden

Path after job

Community

Demographics

What Is the Age and Gender Ratio of Principal Scientist Employees?
Gender ratio in Principal Scientist position: 0.73087255534064 Male and 0.26912744465936 Female. Age ratio in Principal Scientist position: 16-20: 1%, 21-30: 17%, 31-40: 50%, 41-50: 24%, 51-60: 7%, 60+: 1%. Principal Scientist position is predominantly male (73.1%) with the largest age group being 31-40 years old, followed by 41-50 years old.
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Principal ScientistPhiladelphia, PA - A year ago
I understand the importance of diversity, but shouldn't the focus be on merit and qualifications rather than solely on gender? 🙄
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Principal ScientistSeattle, WA - A year ago
It's about time we break the stereotypes and encourage more women to join the field of science and research. Representation matters! 💪

Workplaces

Who Are the Top Employers for Principal Scientist?
Top employers of Principal Scientist position: Amgen, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck. People who work in Principal Scientist position most typically go on to work for the Amgen.
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Principal ScientistPhiladelphia, PA - A year ago
Merck is the top employer for a reason. Work hard and you'll get far in that company!
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Principal ScientistSan Francisco, CA - A year ago
You're all missing out. There are many other innovative companies in this field!
Amgen
Bristol-Myers Squibb
Merck
What Industries Does Principal Scientist Typically Have Experience In?
Industry Background: The most typical industries of Principal Scientist: Manufacturing, Professional / Scientific / Technical, Health Care, Information Technology, Retail. Principal Scientist employees most likely come from a Manufacturing industry background.
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Principal ScientistNew York City, NY - A year ago
Being a Principal Scientist sounds challenging! How do you ensure your research aligns with industry regulations and standards?
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Principal ScientistSan Francisco, CA - A year ago
🤔 I've always wondered, do Principal Scientists focus more on lab work or data analysis and modeling? Which one is more important?

Find your job as Principal Scientist

Discussion about Principal Scientist

Want to know more about Principal Scientist position?
Share your thoughts and ideas about Principal Scientist position with others in our community.
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Can you wear street clothes while working as a Principal Scientist?
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Senior Clinical Study Manager10 months ago
Sure. I enjoy it! one of my dreaming job!
Is Principal Scientist a female or male dominated profession?
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Isabella Holmes3 years ago
More men than women work as a Principal Scientist.
What is the most common age of a Principal Scientist?
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Sophie Hayes3 years ago
The average age is 37
How much experience is typically required to work as a Principal Scientist?
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Liam Brown3 years ago
On average, people have 7 years of experience when they start working as a Principal Scientist
What industries does a Principal Scientist typically work in?
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Isabella Holmes3 years ago
Manufacturing is the most frequent for a Principal Scientist.
Speaking of higher education, do I need a degree as a Principal Scientist?
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Sophie Hayes3 years ago
You should be fine with a Doctor of Philosophy degree
Which company is likely to have openings for Principal Scientist positions?
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Sophie Hayes3 years ago
Amgen, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck, Pfizer and Roche employs the most people in the Principal Scientist role.
How many years do people spend as a Principal Scientist in their career path?
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Isabella Holmes3 years ago
On average people change after more than 5 years.
Is it common for people to switch companies and still work as a Principal Scientist?
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Liam Brown3 years ago
The job hopper score is medium for a Principal Scientist.
What work history do people usually have before becoming a Principal Scientist?
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Sophie Hayes3 years ago
A Principal Scientist probably worked as Scientist, Research Scientist or Postdoctoral Fellow before
What are the typical next steps for someone working as a Principal Scientist?
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Liam Brown3 years ago
Consider the following: Scientist, Associate Director or Research Scientist
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Disclaimer

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