Molecular and Cellular Biologists
Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed
Research and study cellular molecules and organelles to understand cell function and organization.
Median pay: $98,920/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +1.2% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 4,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and data.
• Design molecular or cellular laboratory experiments, oversee their execution, and interpret results.
• Write grant applications to obtain funding.
• Perform laboratory procedures following protocols including deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequencing, cloning and extraction, ribonucleic acid (RNA) purification, or gel electrophoresis.
• Conduct research on cell organization and function, including mechanisms of gene expression, cellular bioinformatics, cell signaling, or cell differentiation.
• Prepare or review reports, manuscripts, or meeting presentations.
• Instruct undergraduate and graduate students within the areas of cellular or molecular biology.
• Direct, coordinate, organize, or prioritize biological laboratory activities.
What's the median pay for Molecular and Cellular Biologists?
The median pay for Molecular and Cellular Biologists is $98,920 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Molecular and Cellular Biologists?
Employment for Molecular and Cellular Biologists is projected to change +1.2% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Molecular and Cellular Biologists?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Molecular and Cellular Biologists?
About 4,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.