68 Best Stem Careers for 2025

Introduction

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields continue to be at the forefront of innovation, economic growth, and solutions to global challenges. As we look ahead to 2025, STEM careers are not only among the fastest-growing job sectors but also offer some of the most rewarding and lucrative professional paths available.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM occupations employed approximately 11 million workers in 2023 and are projected to grow by nearly 11% by 2033, significantly outpacing the growth rate for non-STEM occupations, which is expected to grow at only 3.6%. This robust growth reflects the increasing reliance on technology, data analysis, scientific research, and engineering solutions across virtually every industry.

For those considering a career path or transition, STEM fields offer remarkable opportunities. Beyond impressive salary potential—with STEM occupations boasting a median annual wage of $101,650 compared to $46,680 for non-STEM roles—these careers provide the chance to solve complex problems, drive innovation, and make meaningful contributions to society.

This comprehensive guide explores the 100 best STEM careers for 2025, organized by field and highlighting job outlook, salary expectations, required skills, and educational requirements. Whether you’re a student planning your educational journey, a professional considering a career change, or simply curious about where the greatest opportunities lie in our increasingly technological world, this guide will provide valuable insights into the diverse and dynamic landscape of STEM careers.

Computer Science & Information Technology

1. Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Job Outlook: Extremely high demand, one of the fastest-growing tech fields
Median Salary: $139,861 annually
Key Skills: Large Language Models (LLM), Natural Language Processing (NLP), PyTorch, deep learning
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, AI, or related field; many positions require master’s degrees
Description: AI Engineers develop, test, and implement artificial intelligence models and applications. They work on everything from chatbots to sophisticated machine learning systems that can analyze complex data and make predictions.

2. Artificial Intelligence Researcher

Job Outlook: High growth area with significant academic and industry opportunities
Median Salary: $225,000 annually
Key Skills: Deep learning, PyTorch, Large Language Models, advanced mathematics, research methodologies
Education: PhD in computer science, AI, or related field
Description: AI Researchers develop new algorithms and techniques that advance the field of artificial intelligence. They conduct experiments, publish research papers, and work on cutting-edge applications of AI.

3. AI Ethics Officer

Job Outlook: Emerging field with growing importance
Median Salary: Varies widely, typically $120,000-$180,000
Key Skills: Ethics, AI fundamentals, policy development, communication
Education: Advanced degree in computer science, ethics, or related field
Description: AI Ethics Officers ensure AI systems are developed and deployed ethically, addressing issues like bias, transparency, and privacy. They develop policies and guidelines for responsible AI use.

4. Information Security Analyst

Job Outlook: 33% growth over the next decade
Median Salary: $90,972 annually
Key Skills: Cybersecurity fundamentals, network security, programming/scripting, risk assessment, incident response
Education: Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or related field
Description: Information Security Analysts protect organizations’ computer networks and systems by planning and implementing security measures to protect against cyberattacks and data breaches.

5. Software Engineer

Job Outlook: 17% growth over the next decade
Median Salary: $105,128 annually
Key Skills: Programming languages (Python, Java, C++), software design principles, database knowledge, version control
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or software engineering
Description: Software Engineers design, develop, and test software applications, working with various programming languages and tools to create solutions for users’ needs.

6. Data Scientist

Job Outlook: Continued strong growth
Median Salary: $110,000-$140,000
Key Skills: Statistics, machine learning, programming (Python, R), data visualization, SQL
Education: Bachelor’s degree in data science, computer science, statistics; many positions prefer master’s degrees
Description: Data Scientists extract meaningful insights from large datasets, using statistical analysis and machine learning to solve complex problems and inform business decisions.

7. DevOps Engineer

Job Outlook: 17% growth over the next decade
Median Salary: $123,389 annually
Key Skills: CI/CD tools, automation, containerization, cloud computing, monitoring
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
Description: DevOps Engineers bridge the gap between software development and IT operations, automating and streamlining the software delivery process to improve efficiency and quality.

8. Cloud Architect

Job Outlook: Strong growth as cloud adoption increases
Median Salary: $130,000-$160,000
Key Skills: Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), networking, security, infrastructure as code
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field; certifications in specific cloud platforms
Description: Cloud Architects design and implement cloud-based solutions for organizations, optimizing performance, security, and cost-effectiveness.

9. Machine Learning Engineer

Job Outlook: High demand
Median Salary: $115,000-$145,000
Key Skills: PyTorch, Deep Learning, TensorFlow, programming, statistics
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or related field
Description: Machine Learning Engineers design and implement machine learning models and systems, working to improve algorithms and develop new techniques for data analysis.

10. Blockchain Developer

Job Outlook: Growing with increased adoption of blockchain technology
Median Salary: $100,000-$150,000
Key Skills: Cryptography, distributed systems, programming languages (Solidity, JavaScript)
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
Description: Blockchain Developers create and maintain blockchain-based applications, including cryptocurrencies, smart contracts, and decentralized applications.

11. Quantum Computing Specialist

Job Outlook: Emerging field with strong long-term prospects
Median Salary: $115,000-$150,000
Key Skills: Quantum physics, programming, advanced mathematics
Education: Master’s or PhD in physics, computer science, or related field
Description: Quantum Computing Specialists work on developing and implementing quantum algorithms and applications, pushing the boundaries of computational capabilities.

12. Virtual Reality (VR) Developer

Job Outlook: Growing with metaverse development
Median Salary: $90,000-$120,000
Key Skills: 3D modeling, programming, UI/UX design
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, game development, or related field
Description: VR Developers create immersive virtual environments and experiences for gaming, training, education, and other applications.

13. Computer Vision Engineer

Job Outlook: Strong growth in autonomous systems
Median Salary: $110,000-$140,000
Key Skills: Computer vision algorithms, deep learning, programming, image processing
Education: Master’s degree in computer science or related field
Description: Computer Vision Engineers develop systems that can analyze and interpret visual information from the world, used in applications like autonomous vehicles, medical imaging, and surveillance.

14. Internet of Things (IoT) Specialist

Job Outlook: Growing with increasing connectivity
Median Salary: $95,000-$125,000
Key Skills: Embedded systems, networking, security, programming
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or related field
Description: IoT Specialists develop and implement connected device systems, working on everything from smart home technologies to industrial monitoring systems.

15. Database Administrator

Job Outlook: Stable demand
Median Salary: $90,000-$110,000
Key Skills: SQL, database management systems, security, backup and recovery
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
Description: Database Administrators manage and secure organizational databases, ensuring data integrity, performance, and availability.

16. Full Stack Developer

Job Outlook: Strong demand
Median Salary: $95,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Frontend and backend programming, databases, web technologies
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
Description: Full Stack Developers work on both client-side and server-side aspects of web applications, having comprehensive knowledge of all development layers.

17. Network Architect

Job Outlook: Steady growth
Median Salary: $105,000-$130,000
Key Skills: Networking protocols, security, cloud infrastructure, troubleshooting
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field; certifications often required
Description: Network Architects design and implement computer networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets.

18. IT Project Manager

Job Outlook: Stable demand
Median Salary: $100,000-$130,000
Key Skills: Project management, technical knowledge, leadership, communication
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field; PMP certification beneficial
Description: IT Project Managers oversee the planning, execution, and completion of IT projects, ensuring they meet objectives within constraints of time and budget.

19. UX/UI Designer

Job Outlook: Growing demand
Median Salary: $85,000-$110,000
Key Skills: User research, wireframing, prototyping, visual design
Education: Bachelor’s degree in design, computer science, or related field
Description: UX/UI Designers create intuitive, accessible interfaces for digital products, focusing on optimizing user experience and satisfaction.

20. Computer Systems Analyst

Job Outlook: Steady growth
Median Salary: $85,000-$105,000
Key Skills: Systems analysis, business processes, technical requirements gathering
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
Description: Computer Systems Analysts study an organization’s current computer systems and procedures to design solutions that help the organization operate more efficiently and effectively.

21. Technical Writer (IT)

Job Outlook: Modest growth
Median Salary: $70,000-$90,000
Key Skills: Writing, technical knowledge, information architecture
Education: Bachelor’s degree in English, technical communication, or a technical field
Description: Technical Writers create documentation for software, hardware, and IT systems, translating complex technical information into clear, accessible content.

22. Mobile Application Developer

Job Outlook: Strong demand
Median Salary: $95,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Mobile programming (Swift, Kotlin, React Native), UI design, API integration
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
Description: Mobile Application Developers create apps for mobile devices, ensuring functionality, performance, and user experience across different platforms.

23. Computational Linguist

Job Outlook: Growing with NLP advances
Median Salary: $90,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Natural language processing, linguistics, programming
Education: Master’s or PhD in computational linguistics or related field
Description: Computational Linguists develop algorithms and models for processing and analyzing human language, working on applications like translation software, voice assistants, and text analysis.

24. Software Quality Assurance Engineer

Job Outlook: Steady demand
Median Salary: $85,000-$110,000
Key Skills: Testing methodologies, automation, bug tracking, programming
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
Description: QA Engineers test software applications to identify bugs and ensure functionality, performance, and security meet requirements before release.

25. Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

Job Outlook: Limited but prestigious positions
Median Salary: $150,000-$300,000+
Key Skills: Strategic planning, technical expertise, leadership, business acumen
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or related field; extensive experience required
Description: CTOs are executive-level technology leaders who set the technological vision and strategy for an organization, overseeing all technical aspects of company operations.

Engineering

26. Software Engineering Manager

Job Outlook: Strong demand for leadership roles
Median Salary: $130,000-$180,000
Key Skills: Software development knowledge, leadership, project management
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or related field
Description: Software Engineering Managers lead teams of software engineers, overseeing development projects and ensuring technical excellence while managing personnel and resources.

27. Computer Engineering

Job Outlook: 6.5% growth
Median Salary: $82,565
Key Skills: Hardware design, programming, electronics, troubleshooting
Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer engineering
Description: Computer Engineers design and develop computer hardware and the software that runs on it, bridging electrical engineering and computer science.

28. Robotics Engineer

Job Outlook: Growing with automation trends
Median Salary: $90,000-$150,000
Key Skills: Mechanical engineering, programming, sensor integration, control systems
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in robotics, mechanical engineering, or related field
Description: Robotics Engineers design, build, and maintain robots and robotic systems for various applications, from manufacturing to healthcare.

29. Biomedical Engineer

Job Outlook: 7% growth
Median Salary: $99,510
Key Skills: Biology, mechanical engineering, electronics, programming
Education: Bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering or related field
Description: Biomedical Engineers combine engineering principles with medical and biological sciences to design medical equipment, devices, computer systems, and software used in healthcare.

30. Mechanical Engineer

Job Outlook: 11% growth
Median Salary: $99,510
Key Skills: CAD software, mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science
Education: Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering
Description: Mechanical Engineers design, develop, build, and test mechanical devices and systems, from tools to engines to manufacturing plants.

31. Electrical Engineer

Job Outlook: 9% growth
Median Salary: $109,010
Key Skills: Circuit design, power systems, electronics, control systems
Education: Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering
Description: Electrical Engineers design, develop, and test electrical equipment and systems, from power generation and transmission to communications and electronic devices.

32. Civil Engineer

Job Outlook: Steady growth
Median Salary: $90,000-$110,000
Key Skills: Structural analysis, project management, AutoCAD, construction methods
Education: Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering
Description: Civil Engineers design, build, and maintain infrastructure projects and systems, including roads, buildings, bridges, dams, and water supply systems.

33. Aerospace Engineer

Job Outlook: Steady growth
Median Salary: $100,000-$130,000
Key Skills: Aerodynamics, propulsion, materials, structural analysis
Education: Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering
Description: Aerospace Engineers design aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and missiles, as well as testing prototypes to ensure they function according to design.

34. Environmental Engineer

Job Outlook: 7% growth
Median Salary: $90,000-$110,000
Key Skills: Environmental regulations, waste management, pollution control, sustainable design
Education: Bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or related field
Description: Environmental Engineers use the principles of engineering, soil science, biology, and chemistry to develop solutions to environmental problems, focusing on improving recycling, waste disposal, public health, and water and air pollution control.

35. Industrial Engineer

Job Outlook: 12% growth
Median Salary: $99,380
Key Skills: Process optimization, quality control, ergonomics, data analysis
Education: Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering
Description: Industrial Engineers optimize complex systems, processes, or organizations by eliminating waste of time, money, materials, energy, and other resources.

36. Chemical Engineer

Job Outlook: 10% growth
Median Salary: $112,100
Key Skills: Process design, thermodynamics, kinetics, plant design
Education: Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering
Description: Chemical Engineers apply principles of chemistry, biology, physics, and math to solve problems involving the production or use of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food, and other products.

37. Petroleum Engineer

Job Outlook: Fluctuates with energy market
Median Salary: $120,000-$160,000
Key Skills: Reservoir analysis, drilling methods, production techniques
Education: Bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering
Description: Petroleum Engineers design and develop methods for extracting oil and gas from deposits below the Earth’s surface, and for finding new ways to extract oil and gas from older wells.

38. Nuclear Engineer

Job Outlook: Stable with renewed focus on nuclear energy
Median Salary: $110,000-$140,000
Key Skills: Nuclear physics, safety systems, thermal engineering, MATLAB
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in nuclear engineering
Description: Nuclear Engineers research and develop the processes, instruments, and systems used to derive benefits from nuclear energy and radiation, working on applications in medicine, power generation, and industrial processes.

39. Renewable Energy Engineer

Job Outlook: 7% growth (with environmental engineering)
Median Salary: $90,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Solar, wind, hydropower technologies, energy storage, grid integration
Education: Bachelor’s degree in renewable energy, mechanical, or electrical engineering
Description: Renewable Energy Engineers design and develop systems that generate power from renewable sources like solar, wind, and hydropower, working to create more efficient and sustainable energy solutions.

40. Nanotechnology Engineer

Job Outlook: Growing specialized field
Median Salary: $95,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Nanomaterials, microscopy, fabrication techniques, physics
Education: Master’s or PhD in nanotechnology or related field
Description: Nanotechnology Engineers manipulate matter at the nanoscale to develop new materials and devices with applications in medicine, electronics, biomaterials, and energy production.

41. Materials Engineer

Job Outlook: Steady demand
Median Salary: $90,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Material properties, testing methods, manufacturing processes
Education: Bachelor’s degree in materials science or engineering
Description: Materials Engineers develop, process, and test materials used to create products, from aircraft wings and computer chips to golf clubs and biomedical devices.

42. Bridge Engineer

Job Outlook: Stable demand for infrastructure specialists
Median Salary: $90,000-$120,000
Key Skills: MicroStation, bridge design, structural engineering
Education: Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with specialization in structural engineering
Description: Bridge Engineers design, analyze, and oversee the construction and maintenance of bridges, ensuring structural integrity, safety, and longevity while considering environmental and traffic factors.

43. Systems Engineer

Job Outlook: Strong growth
Median Salary: $95,000-$125,000
Key Skills: Systems thinking, requirements analysis, integration, verification
Education: Bachelor’s degree in systems engineering or related field
Description: Systems Engineers optimize complex engineering systems throughout their life cycles, considering every stage from concept to implementation to disposal.

44. Marine Engineer

Job Outlook: Steady demand
Median Salary: $90,000-$110,000
Key Skills: Naval architecture, propulsion systems, fluid dynamics
Education: Bachelor’s degree in marine engineering or related field
Description: Marine Engineers design, build, and maintain ships, boats, offshore platforms, and underwater vehicles, working with propulsion, steering, and other systems.

45. Acoustical Engineer

Job Outlook: Specialized but stable demand
Median Salary: $85,000-$110,000
Key Skills: Acoustics, vibration analysis, signal processing
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical, electrical, or acoustical engineering
Description: Acoustical Engineers control noise and vibration in products, buildings, and environments, working on applications ranging from concert hall design to quieter consumer products.

46. Mining Engineer

Job Outlook: Stable demand
Median Salary: $95,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Geology, excavation methods, safety systems, environmental management
Education: Bachelor’s degree in mining engineering
Description: Mining Engineers design mines and determine the best way to extract minerals and metals from the earth, with a focus on efficiency, safety, and minimizing environmental impact.

47. Architectural Engineer

Job Outlook: Steady growth
Median Salary: $85,000-$110,000
Key Skills: Building systems, structural design, HVAC, lighting design
Education: Bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering
Description: Architectural Engineers apply engineering principles to the design, construction, and operation of buildings, focusing on structural systems, HVAC, lighting, and acoustics.

48. Photonics Engineer

Job Outlook: Growing with optics technology advances
Median Salary: $90,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Optics, lasers, fiber optics, electro-optical systems
Education: Master’s or PhD in photonics, optical engineering, or related field
Description: Photonics Engineers work with light generation, detection, and manipulation, developing applications in telecommunications, manufacturing, medicine, and computing.

49. Instrumentation and Control Engineer

Job Outlook: Strong demand
Median Salary: $90,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Control systems design, distributed control system (DCS), SCADA systems
Education: Bachelor’s degree in electrical, mechanical, or chemical engineering
Description: Instrumentation and Control Engineers design, develop, install, and manage equipment used to monitor and control engineering systems, machinery, and processes.

50. Geotechnical Engineer

Job Outlook: Steady demand
Median Salary: $85,000-$110,000
Key Skills: Soil mechanics, foundation design, site investigation
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in civil engineering with geotechnical specialization
Description: Geotechnical Engineers apply scientific methods and engineering principles to analyze the behavior of earth materials, designing foundations for structures and solving problems involving soil and rock.

Data & Mathematical Sciences

51. Statistician

Job Outlook: Strong growth
Median Salary: $90,000-$110,000
Key Skills: Statistical analysis, experimental design, programming (R, SAS)
Education: Master’s degree in statistics or related field
Description: Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data to solve real-world problems in business, engineering, healthcare, and other fields.

52. Quantitative Analyst

Job Outlook: Strong demand in finance
Median Salary: $100,000-$150,000
Key Skills: Machine learning, Python, R, financial modeling
Education: Master’s or PhD in mathematics, physics, computer science, or finance
Description: Quantitative Analysts (or “Quants”) develop and implement mathematical models to solve complex financial problems, such as pricing derivatives, managing risk, or executing trading strategies.

53. Operations Research Analyst

Job Outlook: Above-average growth
Median Salary: $85,000-$110,000
Key Skills: Optimization, simulation, decision analysis, programming
Education: Master’s degree in operations research, mathematics, or related field
Description: Operations Research Analysts use advanced mathematical and analytical methods to help organizations solve complex problems and make better decisions.

54. Actuary

Job Outlook: Strong, stable demand
Median Salary: $100,000-$150,000
Key Skills: Statistical analysis, risk assessment, financial mathematics
Education: Bachelor’s degree in actuarial science, mathematics, or related field; professional certification required
Description: Actuaries analyze the financial costs of risk and uncertainty, using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to assess the likelihood of future events and help businesses develop policies to minimize risk.

55. Cryptographer

Job Outlook: Growing with cybersecurity concerns
Median Salary: $95,000-$135,000
Key Skills: Mathematics, algorithm design, computer science, security
Education: Master’s or PhD in mathematics, computer science, or cryptography
Description: Cryptographers develop algorithms, ciphers, and security systems to encrypt sensitive data and protect information from unauthorized access.

56. Data Analyst

Job Outlook: Strong demand
Median Salary: $75,000-$95,000
Key Skills: SQL, data visualization, statistical analysis, Excel
Education: Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, computer science, or related field
Description: Data Analysts collect, process, and perform statistical analyses on large datasets, identifying trends and patterns that help organizations make better business decisions.

57. Mathematician

Job Outlook: Stable demand
Median Salary: $90,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Advanced mathematics, problem-solving, computational methods
Education: Master’s or PhD in mathematics
Description: Mathematicians conduct research in fundamental mathematics or apply mathematical techniques to solve problems in science, management, engineering, and other fields.

58. Epidemiologist

Job Outlook: Above-average growth
Median Salary: $80,000-$110,000
Key Skills: Biostatistics, public health, research methods, data analysis
Education: Master’s or PhD in epidemiology or public health
Description: Epidemiologists investigate patterns and causes of diseases in human populations, helping to develop strategies for prevention and control.

59. Computational Scientist

Job Outlook: Growing with advanced computing needs
Median Salary: $90,000-$130,000
Key Skills: High-performance computing, simulation, algorithm development
Education: PhD in computational science or related field
Description: Computational Scientists use computers to solve complex scientific problems, developing algorithms and models for applications in physics, biology, chemistry, and other fields.

60. Bioinformatician

Job Outlook: Strong growth in healthcare
Median Salary: $90,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Genomics, programming, statistics, biology
Education: Master’s or PhD in bioinformatics or related field
Description: Bioinformaticians develop software tools and methods to understand biological data, particularly in genomics and proteomics research.

Life Sciences & Healthcare

61. Bioinformatics Scientist

Job Outlook: 26% growth (with information research scientists)
Median Salary: $145,080
Key Skills: Programming languages, statistical analysis, molecular biology
Education: Master’s or doctoral degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, or related field
Description: Bioinformatics Scientists develop and apply computational tools to analyze biological data, crucial in genomics and personalized medicine.

62. Biomedical Data Scientist

Job Outlook: Strong growth
Median Salary: $95,000-$130,000
Key Skills: Machine learning, biostatistics, programming, biology
Education: Master’s or PhD in biomedical informatics, data science, or related field
Description: Biomedical Data Scientists apply data science techniques to medical and biological data, developing insights that improve healthcare delivery and biomedical research.

63. Clinical Research Associate

Job Outlook: 11% growth
Median Salary: $100,890
Key Skills: Clinical trial management, good clinical practice, regulatory knowledge
Education: Bachelor’s degree in life sciences or related field; master’s often preferred
Description: Clinical Research Associates oversee clinical trials to test new medical treatments, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and patient safety.

64. Medical Science Liaison

Job Outlook: Strong growth in pharmaceutical industry
Median Salary: $126,000-$160,000
Key Skills: Scientific expertise, relationship building, communication
Education: Advanced degree in science or healthcare field (PharmD, PhD, MD)
Description: Medical Science Liaisons serve as scientific experts who connect pharmaceutical companies with healthcare providers, sharing complex medical information about products.

65. Healthcare Data Analyst

Job Outlook: Strong growth with healthcare digitization
Median Salary: $80,000-$100,000
Key Skills: Healthcare databases, statistical analysis, SQL, healthcare terminology
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in health informatics, statistics, or related field
Description: Healthcare Data Analysts collect and analyze data from various healthcare sources to improve patient care, optimize operations, and reduce costs.

66. Pharmaceutical Scientist

Job Outlook: Steady growth
Median Salary: $90,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Pharmacology, drug formulation, analytical chemistry
Education: PhD in pharmaceutical sciences or related field
Description: Pharmaceutical Scientists research and develop new medications, studying their composition, properties, and effects on biological systems.

67. Research Scientist

Job Outlook: Varies by specialty, generally positive
Median Salary: $85,000-$120,000
Key Skills: Experimental design, data analysis, technical writing, laboratory techniques
Education: Master’s or PhD in relevant scientific field
Description: Research Scientists conduct experiments, analyze results, and develop new products or knowledge in fields ranging from pharmaceuticals to materials science.

68. Research Associate

Job Outlook: Positive growth
Median Salary: $70,000-$90,000
Key Skills: Laboratory techniques, data collection, analysis, reporting
Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in relevant scientific field
Description: Research Associates assist in planning and conducting experiments in laboratories, often working under the direction of senior scientists.

69. Computational Biologist

Job Outlook: Strong growth with increased biotech investment
Median Salary: $101,000