The highest-paying science jobs in 2026

Ranked by median base salary, Research Scientist is the highest-paying science role at $105K — about 24% above the $85K median across 9 science roles.

  1. 1
    Research Scientist
    Science
    $105K/yr
  2. 2
    Materials Scientist
    Science
    $100K/yr
  3. 3
    Statistician
    Science
    $98K/yr
  4. 4
    Climate Scientist
    Science
    $88K/yr
  5. 5
    Epidemiologist
    Science
    $85K/yr
  6. 6
    Geologist
    Science
    $82K/yr
  7. 7
    Chemist
    Science
    $80K/yr
  8. 8
    Biologist
    Science
    $78K/yr
  9. 9
    Environmental Scientist
    Science
    $72K/yr

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