Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Did You Know:
- Most medical scientists need a Ph.D. in a biological science; some also hold a medical degree.
- Some medical scientists work in research laboratories at universities and hospitals; others work for pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies.
- Medical scientists with both a Ph.D. and M.D. are likely to have the best opportunities.
Industry Areas
- Scientific Research and Development Services
- Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools
- Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing
Day-to-Day Tasks
- Conduct research to develop methodologies, instrumentation and procedures for medical application, analyzing data and presenting findings.
- Plan and direct studies to investigate human or animal disease, preventive methods, and treatments for disease.
- Follow strict safety procedures when handling toxic materials to avoid contamination.
Overall Kind of Work
Medical scientists research human diseases and conditions with the goal of improving human health. Most medical scientists conduct biomedical research and development to advance knowledge of life ...
Work Environment
Civilian
Medical scientists who conduct research usually work in laboratories and use a wide variety of equipment. Some may work directly with individual patients or larger groups as they administer drugs ...
Military
Life scientists work in medical, clinical, and research laboratories and, at times, in food processing or storage plants. They may work outdoors while conducting field work on land or aboard ships.
Workweek Breakdown
The hours worked per week by people currently pursuing this career.
- 3.28% (0-20 Hours)
- 6.59% (21-34 Hours)
- 3.10% (35-39 Hours)
- 64.50% (40 Hours)
- 7.40% (41-49 Hours)
- 15.13% (Over 50 Hours)
Type of Work
The level of day-to-day involvement with data, people or things.
Data: 
People: 
Things:
Skills at a Glance
The levels of different skills helpful in this career.
Verbal skills:
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving:
Equipment Operation & Maintenance:
Math & Science Skills:
Technology Design & Control:
Leadership:
Workplace at a Glance
The level of different environmental factors you would experience on the job.
Responsibility:
Exposure to Job Hazards: 
Physical Activity:
Decision Making:
Repetitiveness:
Level of Competition:
Time Pressure:
Business Breakdown
The different sectors people in this career currently work in.
- 47.11% (Private For-Profit)
- 25.38% (Private Not For-Profit)
- 16.11% (State and Local Govt)
- 9.54% (Federal Government)
- 1.87% (Self-Employed)
This data also pertains to Medical Scientists
Military Breakdown
The number of people who currently hold this career in the Military.
413 Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists in the military