ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Research Scientist Salary in Boston
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$230,598/yr
Typical range: $210,505 – $254,166
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Research Scientist salary by experience level in Boston
Research Scientist Salary Progression in Boston
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $111,028 | $9,252 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $140,067 | $11,672 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $160,564 | $13,380 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $182,770 | $15,231 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $230,598 | $19,217 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $267,493 | $22,291 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $276,717 | $23,060 | +149% |
Current Salary
$230,598
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $111/hr
Next Level Target
$267,493
Principal · 14
+$37Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Research Scientist salary in Boston, MA?
Staff / Lead Research Scientists in Boston, MA earn approximately $231K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Research Scientist make per hour in Boston, MA?
Based on $231K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $111/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Research Scientist in Boston, MA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Research Scientist in Boston, MA earns $211K–$254K/yr.