Top 37 PhD Careers in Science and Engineering in 2023
Pursuing a PhD in Science and Engineering is a significant accomplishment that opens up a vast array of career opportunities. PhDs, like you, are equipped with a set of valuable skills, including research, analysis, problem-solving, and communication that can be applied to diverse fields. In this article, we’ll explore 37 PhD careers for Science and Engineering PhDs, including a description of each career, where to find these jobs, and the baseline salary.
PhD Careers:
Research Scientist
Data Scientist
MEdical Scientist
Professor
Software Developer
Computer Hardware Engineer
Data Analyst
User Experience Resaercher
Data Engineer
AI Research Scientist
Petroleum Engineer
Robotics Engineer
Statistician
Patent Lawyer
Operations Research Analyst
Quantitative Analyst
Nuclear Engineer
Forensic Scientist
Geoscientist
Agricultural Scientist
Biomedical Engineer
Physicist
Medical Writer
Medical Science Liaison
Market Research Analyst
Regulatory Engineer
Environmental Scientist
Aerospace Engineer
Technical Sales
Management Consultant
Product Manager
Project Manager
Journal Communications
Quality Engineer
Clinical Research Scientist
Chemist
Materials Scientist
PhD Career Descriptions:
1. Research Scientist:
Research scientists design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and interpret results to advance scientific knowledge. The baseline skills required for this role include a deep understanding of scientific principles, critical thinking, data analysis, and communication skills. Research scientists can find employment in academia, government, pharmaceuticals, and biotech companies. The average salary for a research scientist is $85,000 per year.
2. Data Scientist:
Data scientists use data to extract insights and make informed decisions. The baseline skills required for this role include proficiency in programming languages such as Python and R, statistical analysis, machine learning, and communication skills. Data scientists can find employment in a wide range of industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and e-commerce. The average salary for a data scientist is $115,000 per year.
3. Medical Scientist:
Medical scientists conduct research to improve human health, prevent diseases, and develop new treatments. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of biological and medical sciences, critical thinking, data analysis, and communication skills. Medical scientists can find employment in academia, government, biotech, and pharmaceutical companies. The average salary for a medical scientist is $88,790 per year.
4. Professor:
Professors teach and conduct research in their area of expertise. The baseline skills required for this role include deep knowledge of their field, effective communication, and teaching skills. Professors can find employment in universities and colleges. The average salary for a professor is $95,000 per year.
5. Software Developer:
Software developers design, test, and maintain computer software. The baseline skills required for this role include proficiency in programming languages, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Software developers can find employment in a wide range of industries, including technology, healthcare, and finance. The average salary for a software developer is $105,000 per year.
6. Computer Hardware Engineer:
Computer hardware engineers design and develop computer components and systems. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of engineering principles, computer architecture, and programming languages, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Computer hardware engineers can find employment in the computer and electronics industries. The average salary for a computer hardware engineer is $119,560 per year.
7. Data Analyst:
Data analysts are responsible for collecting, organizing, and analyzing large sets of data to identify trends and insights that can help inform business decisions. The baseline skills required for this role include strong analytical skills, proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques, and the ability to communicate findings to stakeholders. Data analysts can find employment in a wide range of industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare. The average salary for a data analyst is around $75,000 per year, but can vary depending on industry and level of experience.
8. User Experience Researcher:
User experience researchers are responsible for conducting research and gathering insights on user behavior to help inform the design and development of products and services. The baseline skills required for this role include a strong understanding of user research methodologies, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to analyze and synthesize complex data. User experience researchers can find employment in technology, e-commerce, and consumer goods industries. The average salary for a user experience researcher is around $85,000 per year, but can vary depending on industry and level of experience.
9. Data Engineer:
Data engineering is the process of collecting, transforming, and storing data so that it can be used for analysis and business intelligence purposes. A data engineer's role is to develop, construct, test, and maintain data management systems, including databases and large-scale data processing systems. They work closely with data scientists and data analysts to ensure that data is readily available and accessible for analysis. According to Payscale, the average salary for a data engineer is $92,000 per year, but can range from $65,000 to $137,000 depending on factors like years of experience, industry, and location.
10. AI Research Scientist:
Artificial intelligence (AI) research scientists are responsible for developing and improving AI algorithms and models that can learn from and make predictions on large datasets. Their role involves working on research projects, developing new models and algorithms, analyzing data, and implementing machine learning solutions to solve complex problems. AI research scientists can work in a variety of industries, from healthcare to finance to automotive, to improve business outcomes and provide value to customers. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for an AI research scientist is $119,000 per year, but can range from $80,000 to $164,000 depending on factors like years of experience, industry, and location.
11. Petroleum Engineer:
Petroleum engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from the earth. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of engineering principles, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Petroleum engineers can find employment in the oil and gas industry. The average salary for a petroleum engineer is $137,170 per year.
12. Robotics Engineer:
Robotics engineers design and develop robots and robotic systems. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of engineering principles, programming languages, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Robotics engineers can find employment in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and defense. The average salary for a robotics engineer is $82,450 per year.
13. Statistician:
Statisticians design experiments and analyze data to help solve problems in various industries. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of statistics, programming languages, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Statisticians can find employment in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, finance, and government. The average salary for a statistician is $92,030 per year.
14. Patent Lawyer:
Patent lawyers help individuals and organizations protect their inventions and intellectual property. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of patent law, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Patent lawyers can find employment in law firms and corporations. The average salary for a patent lawyer is $144,500 per year.
15. Operations Research Analyst:
Operations research analysts use mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations solve complex problems and make informed decisions. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of mathematics, programming languages, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Operations research analysts can find employment in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, finance, and government. The average salary for an operations research analyst is $86,200 per year.
16. Quantitative Analyst:
Quantitative analysts use mathematical and statistical methods to analyze financial data and develop investment strategies. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of mathematics, programming languages, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Quantitative analysts can find employment in the finance industry. The average salary for a quantitative analyst is $120,000 per year.
17. Nuclear Engineer:
Nuclear engineers design and develop processes and systems for generating nuclear energy. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of engineering principles, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Nuclear engineers can find employment in the nuclear energy industry. The average salary for a nuclear engineer is $113,460 per year.
18. Forensic Scientist:
Forensic scientists collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes to help solve crimes. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of forensic science, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Forensic scientists can find employment in government agencies and law enforcement. The average salary for a forensic scientist is $62,490 per year.
19. Geoscientist:
Geoscientists study the earth's physical properties and natural resources. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of geology, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Geoscientists can find employment in a variety of industries, including energy, mining, and environmental consulting. The average salary for a geoscientist is $93,000 per year.
20. Agricultural Scientist:
Agricultural scientists research and develop new farming methods and technologies to improve crop yield and sustainability. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of agriculture, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Agricultural scientists can find employment in government agencies and agricultural technology companies. The average salary for an agricultural scientist is $71,160 per year.
21. Biomedical Engineer:
Biomedical engineers design and develop medical equipment, devices, and software. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of engineering principles, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Biomedical engineers can find employment in medical equipment manufacturing, hospitals, and research institutions. The average salary for a biomedical engineer is $91,410 per year.
22. Physicist:
Physicists study the fundamental principles of matter and energy. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of physics, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Physicists can find employment in a variety of industries, including academia, government research facilities, and private industry. The average salary for a physicist is $122,850 per year.
23. Medical Writer:
Medical writers are responsible for creating a wide range of medical and scientific documents, including research papers, grant proposals, and regulatory submissions. The baseline skills required for this role include a strong grasp of scientific terminology, excellent writing and editing skills, and attention to detail. Medical writers can find employment in the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and biotech industries, as well as in academic and government settings. The average salary for a medical writer is around $80,000 per year, but can vary depending on industry and level of experience.
24. Medical Science Liaison:
Medical science liaisons (MSLs) serve as a bridge between pharmaceutical or medical device companies and healthcare providers, providing clinical and scientific expertise on products and treatments. The baseline skills required for this role include a deep understanding of medical science, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to build relationships with key stakeholders. MSLs can find employment in the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and biotech industries. The average salary for a medical science liaison is around $140,000 per year, but can vary depending on industry and level of experience.
25. Market Research Analyst:
Market research analysts are responsible for gathering and analyzing data on market trends, consumer behavior, and industry competitors to help companies make informed business decisions. The baseline skills required for this role include strong analytical and critical thinking skills, excellent communication and presentation skills, and proficiency in data analysis tools and techniques. Market research analysts can find employment in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, consumer goods, and technology. The average salary for a market research analyst is around $65,000 per year, but can vary depending on industry and level of experience.
26. Regulatory Engineer:
Regulatory engineers are responsible for ensuring that products and processes comply with government regulations and industry standards. The baseline skills required for this role include a strong understanding of regulatory requirements and compliance standards, excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams. Regulatory engineers can find employment in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, medical device manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals. The average salary for a regulatory engineer is around $80,000 per year, but can vary depending on industry and level of experience.
27. Environmental Scientist:
Environmental scientists study the natural world and how humans interact with it. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of environmental science, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Environmental scientists can find employment in government agencies, consulting firms, and nonprofit organizations. The average salary for an environmental scientist is $71,130 per year.
28. Aerospace Engineer:
Aerospace engineers design and develop aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of engineering principles, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Aerospace engineers can find employment in aerospace and defense companies, government agencies, and research institutions. The average salary for an aerospace engineer is $116,500 per year.
29. Technical Sales:
Technical sales professionals are responsible for selling technical products or services to businesses or consumers. The baseline skills required for this role include a strong understanding of technical products and their applications, excellent communication and presentation skills, and the ability to build and maintain relationships with customers. Technical sales professionals can find employment in a wide range of industries, including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. The average salary for a technical sales professional is around $90,000 per year, but can vary depending on industry and level of experience.
30. Management Consultant:
Management consultants are responsible for helping businesses improve their operations, solve problems, and optimize their performance. The baseline skills required for this role include strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams. Management consultants can find employment in consulting firms, as well as in-house consulting roles in industries such as healthcare, finance, and technology. The average salary for a management consultant is around $110,000 per year, but can vary depending on industry and level of experience.
31. Product Manager:
Product managers are responsible for overseeing the development and launch of new products or services. The baseline skills required for this role include a strong understanding of product development processes, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to prioritize and manage competing demands. Product managers can find employment in technology, e-commerce, and consumer goods industries. The average salary for a product manager is around $110,000 per year, but can vary depending on industry and level of experience.
32. Project Manager:
Project managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing the completion of specific projects within an organization. The baseline skills required for this role include strong organizational and planning skills, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to lead and manage teams. Project managers can find employment in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, construction, and technology. The average salary for a project manager is around $85,000 per year, but can vary depending on industry and level of experience.
33. Journal Communications:
Journal communications professionals are responsible for communicating scientific and technical information to a wider audience through various forms of media, including print and digital publications. The baseline skills required for this role include excellent writing and editing skills, a strong understanding of scientific and technical terminology, and the ability to work collaboratively with authors and other stakeholders. Journal communications professionals can find employment in scientific publishing companies, as well as in-house communications roles in research institutions and universities. The average salary for a journal communications professional is around $70,000 per year, but can vary depending on industry and level of experience.
34. Quality Engineer:
Quality engineers ensure that products and services meet specific quality standards. They create and implement quality control systems, develop and review specifications and quality standards, and analyze data to identify areas for improvement. A PhD in science or engineering with experience in quality control, project management, and statistics is typically required. The average salary for a quality engineer is around $80,000 to $100,000 per year.
35. Clinical Research Scientist:
Clinical research scientists design and conduct research studies to evaluate the safety and efficacy of new drugs, medical devices, and treatments. They collaborate with other researchers, physicians, and regulatory agencies to develop and implement clinical trials. A PhD in science or engineering with experience in clinical research, data analysis, and project management is typically required. The average salary for a clinical research scientist is around $100,000 to $120,000 per year.
36. Chemist:
Chemists study the composition, structure, and properties of matter. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of chemistry, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Chemists can find employment in a variety of industries, including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and manufacturing. The average salary for a chemist is $77,630 per year.
37. Materials Scientist:
Materials scientists study the properties and behavior of different materials to develop new materials with specific properties. The baseline skills required for this role include knowledge of materials science, analytical and problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Materials scientists can find employment in a variety of industries, including electronics, aerospace, and energy. The average salary for a materials scientist is $96,810 per year.
Conclusions:
A PhD in science and engineering opens up a wide range of exciting and rewarding PhD careers with vast opportunities. The 37 PhD careers listed here represent just a small sample of the many possible paths that a science or engineering PhD can take with their PhD career. Whether you're interested in research, development, analysis, or design, there is a career out there that will allow you to apply your skills and knowledge to make a real difference in the world.
To find these PhD careers, you can search on job boards, company websites, and professional networking sites like LinkedIn. You can also attend PhD career fairs and conferences in your field to network with potential employers and learn about new opportunities.
In terms of salary, many of the PhD careers listed here offer competitive salaries, with some offering six-figure salaries or higher. Of course, salaries can vary based on factors such as location, industry, and level of experience. However, with a PhD in science and engineering, you can expect to earn a good living while doing work that is both challenging and rewarding.
So if you're considering pursuing a PhD career in science or engineering, take heart: there are more possibilities than you might have imagined. With the right skills, mindset, and determination, you can find a career that allows you to make a positive impact on the world while also achieving personal and professional fulfillment.