ScienceOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years

Staff / Lead Research Scientist Salary in New York

2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.

$231,383/yr

Typical range: $211,222 $255,032

P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data

Research Scientist Salary Progression in New York

From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data

Experience LevelYearsPercentileAnnual SalaryMonthlyvs Entry
Entry0 yrs0 yrs$111,407$9,284
Junior2 yrs2 yrs$140,544$11,712+26%
Mid-Level4 yrs4 yrs$161,111$13,426+45%
Senior6 yrs6 yrs$183,393$15,283+65%
StaffThis page10 yrs10 yrs$231,383$19,282+108%
Principal14 yrs14 yrs$268,405$22,367+141%
Distinguished18 yrs18 yrs$277,660$23,138+149%
Current Salary
$231,383
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $111/hr
Next Level Target
$268,405
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 New York, NY?

Staff / Lead Research Scientists in New York, NY 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 New York, NY?

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 New York, NY?

The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Research Scientist in New York, NY earns $211K–$255K/yr.