Median pay: $64,000
Top pay: $90,700
10-year job growth: 18%
Total jobs: 30,000
The job:
Biotech researchers aren't just responsible for developing drugs and vaccines. They also play a role in developing innovative solutions for some of the world's most pressing challenges. The studies you conduct may lead to new products and services that will make life better and easier. You could help increase the yield of crops in developing countries or create greener energy sources. Making observations, analyzing data and using statistics to interpret results are part of your daily routine. You get the satisfaction of running your own experiments and expanding the body of scientific knowledge to benefit others.
How to switch:
You need a background in lab sciences and research methods. If you want to advance, you'll probably want to go for your master's or doctorate.
Quality of life ratings:
| Personal satisfaction |
Benefit to society |
Low stress |
Flexibility |
| B |
B |
C |
A |
By Donna Rosato and Grace Wong
Subscribe to Money Magazine
