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SOC 2111 Science, research, engineering and technology professionals

Chemical scientists Salary

Median salary £39,668 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.

Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £40,000 after tax and National Insurance →

For chemical scientists, £39,983 is the typical (median) pay. That is around the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +2.0% versus the national average.

About this role

Chemical scientists conduct systematic research, analysis and investigation within their area of expertise. They design studies, collect and analyse data, interpret findings and communicate results to inform decision-making, advance knowledge or develop new products and services.

Key responsibilities

  • Designing and conducting research or analytical studies
  • Collecting, processing and analysing data
  • Interpreting results and drawing evidence-based conclusions
  • Writing reports, papers and presenting findings
  • Maintaining laboratory, equipment or data systems

Qualifications and entry routes

Typically requires a degree in a relevant scientific or analytical discipline. Research positions often require a masters or PhD. Professional registration or chartership may be required depending on the field.

Career outlook

Demand varies by specialisation. Life sciences, data science and environmental research are growth areas. Funding availability influences academic research positions.

Key skills

Research methodology Data analysis Critical thinking Scientific writing Technical expertise

Common industries

  • Research institutions
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Government
  • Technology
  • Environmental services

Data coverage

SOC code 2111
Data source ONS ASHE
Years available 2015–2025
Estimated jobs 15,000

Median Salary

£39,668

Mean Salary

£48,737

Jobs (000s)

15k

Data Years

11 years

Salary Range (2025)

P10: --P25: £32kMedian: £40kP75: --P90: --

Estimated Career Progression

Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation

Entry Level

£32,412

0-2 years

Mid Level

£32,412

3-7 years

Salary Trend (2015-2025)

Nominal growth: +22.0%Real growth: -11.6%

Gender Pay Comparison (2025)

Gender pay gap: 32.1%

Full-time vs All Employees (2025)

All Employees

£39,668

Full-time Only

£39,983

Full-time premium: +£315

Chemical scientists salary: common questions

How much do chemical scientists earn in the UK?
Chemical scientists earn a median of £39,983 a year (ONS ASHE 2025).
Is £39,983 a good salary in the UK?
For chemical scientists, £39,983 is the typical (median) pay. That is around the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +2.0% versus the national average.
What is the starting salary for chemical scientists?
Entry-level chemical scientists typically start near the lower end of the range. The bottom 25% earn up to £32,412, though this varies by employer and region.
Have chemical scientists salaries kept up with inflation?
Since 2015, median chemical scientists pay has risen from £33,536 to £39,983 — +19% in cash terms, or -14% after CPIH inflation. That is behind inflation over the period.
Is there a gender pay gap for chemical scientists?
Male chemical scientists earn a median £48,124 and female chemical scientists £32,694 — a gap of +32% in 2025.

Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).