Hi everyone, I'm thinking about majoring in a scientific field when I go to college, and I'm curious about the possible career paths if I decide to pursue research after graduation. How much do university researchers generally make? Thanks for sharing your knowledge!
Hi there! It's great that you're thinking about majoring in a scientific field and considering the potential career options. University researcher salaries can vary widely based on the discipline, institution, and location, as well as the level of experience of the researcher.
As a rough estimate, early-career university researchers (e.g., postdoctoral fellows) usually make an annual salary in the range of $40,000 to $60,000. Assistant professors can make around $60,000 to $90,000, while more experienced researchers (full professors) may earn anywhere from $80,000 to over $150,000 per year.
Keep in mind that these are just general numbers, and specific cases may greatly differ. It's essential to conduct thorough research and gather more information about professionals in your desired field. Networking with current researchers and attending university events are great ways to understand the work they do and the compensation they receive. Best of luck with your college journey!
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