Fast-Growing Science Occupations

March 14 is Scientists Day, as well as being Pi Day. Scientists contribute to our knowledge in countless ways, from helping us solve everyday problems to leading discoveries of new galaxies. If you’re interested in a science career, there’s good news: many jobs in science are growing — and they pay well, too.

While there are many exciting options, we’re highlighting 10 life and physical scientist occupations below. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment growth for those shown in the chart to be faster than the average for all occupations (2.8%) from 2022 to 2032.

These scientists typically need at least a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation, with a few requiring graduate degrees. And each paid more than the median annual average wage of $46,310 in 2022.

Animal scientists study domestic farm animals, including research into their genetics, nutrition, growth and development.

Employment growth, projected 2022–32: 6% (faster than average)

Median annual wage, 2022: $69,390

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor’s degree

Number of jobs, 2022: 2,800

Occupational openings, projected 2022–32 annual average: 200 

 

Astronomers and physicists research and interpret the interactions of matter and energy.

Employment growth, projected 2022–32: 5% (faster than average)

Median annual wage, 2022: $139,220

Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree

Number of jobs, 2022: 23,600

Occupational openings, projected 2022–32 annual average: 1,500

 

Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes, such as cell development, growth, heredity and disease.

Employment growth, projected 2022–32: 7% (faster than average)

Median annual wage, 2022: $103,810

Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree

Number of jobs, 2022: 34,500

Occupational openings, projected 2022–32 annual average: 2,800

 

Chemists and materials scientists research and analyze the chemical properties of substances to develop new materials, products or knowledge.

Employment growth, projected 2022–32: 6% (faster than average)

Median annual wage, 2022: $81,810

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor’s degree

Number of jobs, 2022: 95,000

Occupational openings, projected 2022–32 annual average: 7,200

 

Environmental scientists and geoscientists use their knowledge of the natural sciences to protect the environment and human health. 

Employment growth, projected 2022–32: 6% (faster than average)

Median annual wage, 2022: $78,730

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor’s degree

Number of jobs, 2022: 113,300

Occupational openings, projected 2022–32 annual average: 9,600

 

Epidemiologists investigate, analyze, and determine patterns and causes of disease and health outcomes.

Employment growth, projected 2022–32: 27% (much faster than average)

2022 annual median pay: $78,520

Typical entry-level education: Master’s degree

Number of jobs, 2022: 10,000

Occupational openings, projected 2022–32 annual average: 800

 

Food scientists and technologists analyze the nutritional content of food, discover new food sources, and research ways to make processed foods safe and healthy. 

Employment growth, projected 2022–32: 8% (much faster than average)

2022 annual median pay: $79,860

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor’s degree

Number of jobs, 2022: 15,300

Occupational openings, projected 2022–32 annual average: 1,300

 

Medical scientists, except epidemiologists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health.

Employment growth, projected 2022–32: 10% (much faster than average)

2022 annual median pay: $99,930

Typical entry-level education: Doctoral or professional degree

Number of jobs, 2022: 119,000

Occupational openings, projected 2022–32 annual average: 7,500

 

Microbiologists study microscopic organisms to understand how they live, grow, and interact with their environments.

Employment growth, projected 2022–32: 5% (faster than average)

2022 annual median pay: $81,990

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor’s degree

Number of jobs, 2022: 20,900

Occupational openings, projected 2022–32 annual average: 1,700

 

Soil scientists and plant scientists examine the composition of soil, how it affects plant or crop growth, and how alternative soil treatments affect crop productivity.

Employment growth, projected 2022–32: 5% (faster than average)

2022 annual median pay: $65,730

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor’s degree

Number of jobs, 2022: 17,200

Occupational openings, projected 2022–32 annual average: 1,400

 

Explore these and hundreds of other occupations in the Occupational Outlook Handbook online or by downloading the CareerInfo app, available for iOS and Android devices. You’ll also find career exploration and assessment tools at the U.S. Department of Labor’s O*NET Resource Center.

Patricia Tate is an economist in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Follow BLS on X at @BLS_gov.