ScienceGovernment / OECD · 96/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Research Scientist Salary in London
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$155,744/yr
Typical range: $142,174 – $171,662
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Research Scientist salary by experience level in London
Research Scientist Salary Progression in London
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 | $74,988 | $6,249 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $94,600 | $7,883 | +26% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $108,444 | $9,037 | +45% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $123,442 | $10,287 | +65% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $155,744 | $12,979 | +108% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $180,663 | $15,055 | +141% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $186,893 | $15,574 | +149% |
Current Salary
$155,744
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $75/hr
Next Level Target
$180,663
Principal · 14
+$25Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
40/100
Below Average
+8% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Research Scientist salary in London, UK?
Staff / Lead Research Scientists in London, UK earn approximately $156K 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 London, UK?
Based on $156K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $75/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Research Scientist in London, UK?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Research Scientist in London, UK earns $142K–$172K/yr.