How Much Does a Research Scientist Make in Singapore?

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By Jolene Lau

Are you interested in pursuing a career in research science in Singapore? One of the first things you may want to know is how much you can expect to earn. Research scientists are highly skilled professionals who play a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge and developing new technologies. As such, they are compensated accordingly.

A research scientist in Singapore earns a competitive salary. The scene could show a scientist in a lab, surrounded by equipment and conducting experiments

According to recent data, the average salary for a research scientist in Singapore is around S$70,000 per year. However, this figure can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including your level of experience, your area of specialization, and the specific company or institution where you are employed. If you are considering a career in research science, it is important to do your research and understand the earning potential and job prospects in your field.

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Curious about a research scientist salary in Singapore? Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • The average research scientist in Singapore makes around S$70,000 per year.
  • This figure can vary based on experience, area of expertise, and the company you work for.
  • Research scientists in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology tend to earn the most.
  • You can expect your salary to increase with experience. Senior researchers can make S$10,000 to S$15,000 per month!

For a deeper dive into research scientist salaries in Singapore, check out the rest of the article.

Overview of the Research Scientist Profession in Singapore

A research scientist in a modern laboratory in Singapore, surrounded by high-tech equipment and conducting experiments

Are you interested in becoming a research scientist in Singapore? If so, you may be wondering what this profession entails and how much you can expect to make.

Research scientists in Singapore work in a variety of fields, including healthcare, technology, and engineering. They are responsible for conducting research and experiments, analyzing data, and presenting their findings to others. Research scientists often work in teams, collaborating with other scientists, engineers, and researchers to achieve common goals.

In Singapore, research scientists are highly valued for their expertise and contributions to the country’s scientific community. They are often employed by government agencies, universities, and private companies.

According to PayScale, the average salary for a research scientist in Singapore in 2024 is S$70,771. However, this can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, and industry.

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a research scientist in Singapore, it is important to have a strong educational background in a related field such as biology, chemistry, or physics. Many research scientists hold advanced degrees such as a PhD.

Average Salary for Research Scientists in Singapore

A research scientist in Singapore earns an average salary. The scientist is working in a modern laboratory setting, surrounded by state-of-the-art equipment and technology

If you are considering a career as a research scientist in Singapore, you may be wondering about the average salary for this profession. According to Payscale, the median salary for a research scientist in Singapore is SGD 71k per year, with the top 10% earning up to SGD 103k per year.

However, Glassdoor reports a slightly different figure, with an average salary of SGD 6,000 per month, or SGD 72k per year. This figure is based on 379 salaries submitted anonymously by research scientists in Singapore.

It is worth noting that the actual salary for a research scientist in Singapore can vary depending on a number of factors, including years of experience, qualifications, and the industry in which you work. For example, research scientists working in the pharmaceutical industry may earn more than those working in academia or government.

If you are considering a career as a research scientist in Singapore, it is important to research the industry and companies you are interested in working for, as well as to gain as much experience and qualifications as possible to increase your earning potential.

Factors Influencing Research Scientist Salaries in Singapore

A research scientist's salary in Singapore is influenced by factors like education, experience, and industry. The average salary for a research scientist in Singapore is around $72,000 per year

As a research scientist in Singapore, your salary will be influenced by various factors. Understanding these factors will help you negotiate for better pay and also make informed decisions about your career. Here are some of the factors that influence research scientist salaries in Singapore:

Years of Experience

Your years of experience as a research scientist will have a significant impact on your salary. As a general rule, the more experience you have, the higher your salary will be. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a research scientist in Singapore with 1-3 years of experience is SGD 5,000 per month, while those with 4-6 years of experience can earn up to SGD 7,000 per month. Those with more than 10 years of experience can earn up to SGD 12,000 per month.

Educational Background

Your educational background is another important factor that influences your salary as a research scientist. Generally, those with higher levels of education tend to earn more. For instance, a research scientist with a PhD in Singapore can earn up to SGD 10,000 per month, while those with a Bachelor’s degree can earn up to SGD 6,000 per month.

Skill Set and Specialisations

Your skill set and specialisations will also play a role in determining your salary as a research scientist. If you have specialised skills in a particular area, you are likely to earn more. For instance, a research scientist with skills in data analysis and machine learning can earn up to SGD 8,000 per month. On the other hand, those with general skills may earn less.

Industry and Sector Variations

The industry and sector you work in will also influence your salary as a research scientist. For instance, those working in the pharmaceutical industry tend to earn more than those in the academic sector. According to Payscale, the average salary for a research scientist in the pharmaceutical industry in Singapore is SGD 90,000 per year, while those in the academic sector earn an average of SGD 69,000 per year.

Demand for Research Scientists in Singapore

Finally, the demand for research scientists in Singapore will also impact your salary. If there is a high demand for your skills, you are likely to earn more. For instance, research scientists with skills in artificial intelligence and machine learning are in high demand in Singapore, and can earn up to SGD 12,000 per month.

Highest Paying Areas for Research Scientists in Singapore

A bustling Singapore cityscape with iconic landmarks, research facilities, and a skyline of high-rise buildings

If you are a research scientist looking for the highest paying areas in Singapore, you should focus your job search on the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. According to Glassdoor, research scientists in these industries earn an average salary of SGD 6,000 per month in Singapore. This is higher than the average salary for research scientists in other industries.

Another industry that pays research scientists well in Singapore is the aerospace and defense industry. According to Glassdoor, research scientists in this industry earn an average salary of SGD 5,500 per month. This is slightly lower than the average salary for research scientists in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, but still higher than the average salary for research scientists in other industries.

In addition to the industry, the level of experience also plays a significant role in determining the salary of a research scientist in Singapore. According to Indeed, research scientists with 10-14 years of experience earn an average salary of SGD 9,100 per month, which is significantly higher than the average salary for research scientists with 0-1 years of experience.

Tip: Increase Your Research Scientist Salary in Singapore!

Want to maximize your earning potential as a Research Scientist in Singapore? Here’s a key factor: Industry matters!

The pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries offer the highest salaries, reaching SGD 6,000 per month. Target your job search there to potentially increase your income!

Comparing Research Scientist Salaries: Singapore vs Other Countries

A bar graph comparing research scientist salaries in Singapore and other countries

As a research scientist in Singapore, you may be curious about how your salary stacks up against those in other countries. Here’s a quick comparison:

United States

According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a research scientist in the United States is around $82,000 per year. However, this can vary greatly depending on the location, industry, and level of experience.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, Payscale reports that the average salary for a research scientist is around £32,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on the industry and level of experience.

Australia

According to SalaryExpert, the average salary for a research scientist in Australia is around AUD 100,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on the industry and level of experience.

Singapore

As we saw earlier, the average salary for a research scientist in Singapore is around SGD 70,000 per year, according to Payscale. While this may be lower than some other countries, it’s important to keep in mind that Singapore has a lower cost of living compared to places like the United States and Australia.

Career Progression and Salary Growth

A research scientist's salary graph rises in Singapore. From entry to senior level, the progression shows steady growth

If you are considering a career as a research scientist in Singapore, it is important to understand the potential career progression and salary growth that you can expect in this field.

Entry-Level Positions

As an entry-level research scientist in Singapore, you can expect to earn an average salary of around SGD 4,000 to SGD 5,000 per month. At this stage, you will typically be responsible for conducting experiments, collecting data, and assisting senior researchers with their projects.

Mid-Career Advancements

As you gain more experience in the field and take on more responsibilities, you can expect to see a significant increase in your salary. Mid-career research scientists in Singapore can earn an average salary of around SGD 6,000 to SGD 8,000 per month. At this stage, you may be responsible for leading research projects, mentoring junior researchers, and contributing to the development of new products or technologies.

Senior-Level Earnings

At the senior level, research scientists in Singapore can earn an average salary of around SGD 10,000 to SGD 15,000 per month. At this stage, you will typically be responsible for overseeing multiple research projects, managing teams of researchers, and developing and implementing research strategies that align with the organization’s goals.

It is important to note that salary growth and career progression in this field can depend on a variety of factors, including your level of education, your area of specialization, and the industry you work in. However, with dedication and hard work, you can expect to see significant growth in your salary and career opportunities as a research scientist in Singapore.

Negotiating Your Salary as a Research Scientist in Singapore

A research scientist in Singapore discusses salary with their employer, potentially using data and charts to negotiate

As a research scientist in Singapore, you have a unique set of skills and knowledge that are highly valued in the job market. However, negotiating your salary can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to help you negotiate your salary as a research scientist in Singapore:

Do Your Research

Before you start negotiating your salary, it’s important to do your research. Find out what the average salary is for a research scientist in Singapore. You can use websites like Glassdoor or Payscale to get an idea of what you should be earning. You can also talk to other research scientists in Singapore to find out what they are earning.

Know Your Worth

Once you have an idea of what the average salary is for a research scientist in Singapore, you need to know your worth. Consider your education, experience, and skills when determining your worth. If you have a PhD or extensive experience in your field, you may be able to negotiate a higher salary.

Be Confident

When negotiating your salary, it’s important to be confident. Remember that you have valuable skills and knowledge that are in demand. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you’re worth.

Consider Other Benefits

Salary is important, but it’s not the only thing to consider when negotiating your compensation package. You may also want to consider other benefits, such as healthcare, retirement plans, and vacation time. These benefits can add significant value to your compensation package.

Be Prepared to Negotiate

Negotiating your salary can be a back-and-forth process. Be prepared to negotiate and be willing to compromise. You may not get everything you want, but you can still negotiate a fair compensation package.

Understanding the Salary Structure: Base Salary and Benefits

A research scientist in Singapore reviews a salary breakdown, highlighting base salary and benefits

As a research scientist in Singapore, you can expect to earn a competitive salary that reflects your skills, experience, and qualifications. The base salary for a research scientist in Singapore typically ranges from SGD 7,000 to SGD 103,000 per year, with a median salary of SGD 71,000 per year [1].

In addition to the base salary, research scientists in Singapore may also receive bonuses, profit sharing, and other benefits. According to Glassdoor, the average bonus for a research scientist in Singapore is between SGD 5,000 and SGD 21,000 per year, while profit sharing can range from SGD 491 to SGD 51,000 per year [2].

Benefits packages for research scientists in Singapore may vary depending on the employer and industry. Some common benefits that may be offered include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. It is important to research the benefits package offered by a potential employer to ensure that it aligns with your needs and expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the average starting salary for a Research Scientist in Singapore?

As of 2024, the average starting salary for a Research Scientist in Singapore is around SGD 50,000 to SGD 70,000 per year. However, the starting salary can vary depending on the industry, level of education, and years of experience.

Can you tell me the earnings of a Senior Research Scientist in Singapore?

Senior Research Scientists in Singapore can earn an average salary of SGD 100,000 to SGD 150,000 per year, depending on the industry, level of education, and years of experience.

How lucrative is a Research Fellow position in Singapore?

A Research Fellow position in Singapore can be quite lucrative, with an average salary range of SGD 70,000 to SGD 100,000 per year. However, the salary can vary depending on the industry, level of education, and years of experience.

What financial prospects does a PhD holder have in the Singaporean research sector?

PhD holders in the Singaporean research sector can expect to earn higher salaries compared to those with a Master’s or Bachelor’s degree. Depending on the industry, a PhD holder can earn an average salary of SGD 80,000 to SGD 120,000 per year.

What’s the salary range for Research Scientists at A*STAR in Singapore?

Research Scientists at A*STAR in Singapore can earn an average salary range of SGD 60,000 to SGD 110,000 per year, depending on the level of education and years of experience.

How much can one expect to earn working as a Research Scientist at NUS?

Research Scientists at NUS can earn an average salary range of SGD 60,000 to SGD 100,000 per year, depending on the level of education and years of experience. However, it is important to note that salaries can vary depending on the field of research and the specific department within NUS.


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