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The Guide to Becoming a Medical Researcher

• February 1, 2023

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As a medical researcher, your job is to conduct research to improve the health status and longevity of the population. The career revolves around understanding the causes, treatments, and prevention of diseases and medical conditions through rigorous clinical investigations, epidemiological studies, and laboratory experiments. As a medical researcher, simply gaining formal education won’t suffice. You also need to hone your communication, critical thinking, decision-making, data collecting, data analyzing and observational skills. These skill sets will enable you to create a competitive edge in the research industry. On a typical day, a medical researcher would be collecting, interpreting, and analyzing data from clinical trials, working alongside engineering, regulatory, and quality assurance experts to evaluate the risk of medical devices, or maybe even preparing and examining medical samples for causes or treatments of toxicity, disease, or pathogens.

How To Become a Medical Research Doctor?

The roadmap to medical research is a bit tricky to navigate, because it is a profession that demands distinctive skills and expertise along with mandatory formal education. If you harbor an interest in scientific exploration and a desire to break new ground in medical knowledge, the first step is to earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as biology, chemistry, or biochemistry. After completing your undergraduate education, you will need to earn a Medical Degree ( MD ) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, from a quality institution such as the Windsor university school of Medicine.

After that, the newly minted doctor of medicine (MD) may choose to complete a three-year residency program in a specialty related to medical research, such as internal medicine, pediatrics, or neurology, in addition to a doctor of philosophy (PhD) degree—the part that provides the research expertise. In some  medical school  programs, students may pursue a dual MD-PhD at the same time, which provides training in both medicine and research. They are specifically designed for those who want to become research physicians. Last but not the least, all physician-scientists must pass the first two steps of the United States Medical Learning Examination (USMLE).

Use your fellowship years to hone the research skills necessary to carry out independent research. You may also take courses in epidemiology, biostatistics, and other related fields. In order to publish your research in peer-reviewed journals to establish yourself as a medical researcher. To apply for a faculty position at a medical school, research institute, or hospital. To maintain your position as a medical research doctor, you must publish your research and make significant contributions to the field.

How Much Do Medical Researchers Make?

Having a clear idea of what to earn when you become a medical researcher can help you decide if this is a good career choice for you. The salaries of Medical Researchers in the US range from $26,980 to $155,180, with a median salary of $82,240. There is also room for career advancement and higher earning potential as you gain experience.

The Most Popular Careers in Medical Research

• Medical Scientists  – conduct research and experiments to improve our understanding of diseases and to develop new treatments. They also develop new medical technologies and techniques.
• Biomedical engineers  – design medical devices, such as pacemakers, prosthetics, and imaging machines. They also develop and improve existing medical technologies.
• Clinical Trial Coordinators  – oversee and manage clinical trials, which test new drugs and treatments. They are responsible for recruiting participants, collecting and analyzing data, and ensuring the trial is conducted in compliance with ethical standards.
• Medical Laboratory Technicians  – analyze bodily fluids and tissues to diagnose diseases and conditions. They perform tests using specialized equipment and techniques, and report results to physicians.
• Biostatisticians  – collect statistics to analyze data and test hypotheses in medical research. They design and analyze clinical trials, and use statistical models to understand the causes and effects of diseases.
• Epidemiologists  – study the causes, distribution, and control of diseases in populations. They collect and analyze data, and use their findings to develop strategies for preventing and controlling diseases.
• Pathologists  – diagnose diseases by examining tissues and bodily fluids. They use microscopes and other diagnostic tools to identify and study the changes in tissues caused by disease.
• Genetic Counselors  – help individuals understand and manage the risks associated with inherited genetic disorders. They educate patients about genetic tests and help families make informed decisions about their health.
• Health Services Researchers  – study the delivery of healthcare and identify ways to improve it.
• Medical writers  – write articles, reports, and other materials related to medical research.
• Microbiologists  – study microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, to understand their behavior and impact on human health.
• Neuroscientists  – study the brain and nervous system to understand the underlying causes of neurological conditions.
• Toxicologists  – study the effects of toxic substances on living organisms and the environment.

Skills You Need to Become a Medical Researcher?

To be a successful medical scientist, you need a range of soft and hard skills to excel in your work. First things first, medical researchers must be able to analyze data, identify patterns, and draw conclusions from their findings. They must be able to think critically, ask relevant questions, and design experiments to answer those questions. Additionally, you should also have the knack of articulating your findings clearly and effectively, be it writing research papers, grant proposals, or technical reports that are clear, concise, and free from errors.

Medical researchers must be proficient in using various computer programs and software to collect, manage, analyze and interpret research data. They must be able to use laboratory equipment and techniques, as well as statistical analysis software and other tools for data analysis. Since medical research involves precise and meticulous work, so you must also pay close attention to detail to ensure that your findings are accurate and reliable. Not to mention, medical researchers often work in teams, so it pays off if you are good at collaborating with others effectively, sharing ideas, and working together to solve complex problems.

Lastly, medical researchers must have a thorough understanding of regulations and ethical guidelines that govern research, such as obtaining informed consent from study participants, ensuring data confidentiality, and adhering to safety protocols.

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Applying to MD-PhD Programs

New section.

Are you considering a MD-PhD program? Here the basics about applying to MD-PhD programs to help you get started.

The MD-PhD dual degree training prepares you for a career that is busy, challenging, and rewarding, and offers opportunities to do good for many people by advancing medical science, developing new diagnostics and treatments for diseases, and pushing back the boundaries of the unknown.

How do I know if a combined program is right for me?

MD-PhD programs are specifically designed for those who want to become physician-researchers, also known as physician-scientists. Graduates of MD-PhD programs often go on to become faculty members at medical schools, universities, and research institutes such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

MD-PhD program students are being prepared for careers in which they will spend most of their time doing research in addition to caring for patients. It is critical that applicants have a passion for doing both—most MD-PhD graduates feel strongly that they would not be fulfilled by only pursuing medicine or science.

How do I apply?

Nearly all MD-PhD programs participate in the application process via the American Medical College Application Service® (AMCAS®) . On the AMCAS application, students designate themselves as MD-PhD applicants and complete two additional essays: one related to why they are interested in MD-PhD training, and the other highlighting their significant research experiences.

What schools offer this type of program?

Nationwide, there are more than 90 MD-PhD programs affiliated with medical schools. The National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) supports Medical Scientist Training Programs or MSTPs. They currently provide training grants that partially support MD-PhD programs at 49 degree-granting institutions. You can see which schools offer MD-PhD degrees in the  Medical School Admission Requirements  profiles under “Combined Degrees and Special Programs.” You can also review  Individual MD-PhD Program Information for Prospective Applicants  for easy access to individual MD-PhD program websites.

How long does it take?

Students enter an integrated curriculum that typically takes seven to eight years to complete. During which time, they satisfy the full requirements for both the MD and the PhD degrees.

What kind of work can I do? How much time is spent as an MD? As a researcher?

According to a  study of MD-PhD program outcomes , nearly 80 percent of graduates are following career paths consistent with the goals of their training, including working as full-time faculty in academic medical centers or for the NIH, research institutes, industry, and federal agencies. Those in academia, spend between 50 and 80 percent of their time conducting research, though this can vary by specialty. Their research may be lab-based, translational, or clinical. The remaining time is often divided between clinical service, teaching, and administrative activities.

MD-PhD Application Timeline

AMCAS application opens:  May preceding the year of expected entry Applicants interviewed:  October–March Final decisions sent to applicants:  December–March Applicants revisit program(s) to decide where to matriculate:  March–April MD-PhD programs start:  June–August

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Information on how to become a research physician, also known as a physician-investigator or a physician-scientist.

A Personal Plea to Premeds

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When I was in college, I was in a premed “bubble” a lot of the time. I took many of my courses and labs alongside hundreds of other aspiring physicians. I would see the same people throughout my academic day, and sometimes even outside of the lecture hall. Because of this, I unintentionally overheard conversations […]

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Degree programs, doctor of medicine (md).

Our MD program centers on patient contact and active learning, with clinical training from the first week — much earlier than you'll find at most schools. It also has dual degree options in  bioethics ,  business ,  public health , and biomedical and clinical/translational research ( master's  and  PhD programs ).

Doctor of Philosophy in Biological and Biomedical Sciences (PhD)

Emory's Laney Graduate School offers interdisciplinary PhD programs in biochemistry, cancer biology, genetics and molecular biology, immunology and pathogenesis, microbiology, pharmacology, neuroscience, and population biology.

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Historically one of the top physical therapy programs in the country, this degree prepares physical therapists for practice in an evolving health care environment. There are also options for a dual degree in applied physiology, bioethics, business, and public health.

Master of Medical Science Anesthesiology (MMSc)

A 27-month graduate program including 2,500 hours of clinical rotation that covers all specialty areas of anesthesia practice and a range of hospital settings.

Master of Medical Science Genetic Counseling (MMSc)

The first in the state of Georgia, our genetic counseling program offers a combination of cutting-edge coursework, extensive clinical experiences, research opportunities, and a five-semester internship.

Master of Medical Science Physician Assistant (MMSc-PA)

Our program emphasizes team-based care, patient advocacy, and primary and preventive care for medically underserved populations. There's also an option for adding a  master's in public health , one of the few dual degrees of its kind in the field.

Bachelor of Medical Science Medical Imaging (BMSc)

Graduates of this specialized undergraduate program should advance more rapidly into management, educational positions, careers as application specialists for imaging equipment, or advanced clinical practice in CT and MRI.

Medical Researcher Education Requirements

The educational requirements for a medical researcher are a doctorate degree, with a strong preference for a degree in biology, medicine, or chemistry. According to Mario Jimenez Chacon , Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay, "a qualified researcher needs to have the hard skills associated with their field, for example, the appropriate certification/ degrees or the ability to use technology effectively." Top universities for medical research include the University of Southern California, Duke University, and the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor.

What education do you need to become a medical researcher?

What degree do you need to be a medical researcher.

The most common degree for medical researchers is bachelor's degree, with 56% of medical researchers earning that degree. The second and third most common degree levels are master's degree degree at 13% and master's degree degree at 10%.

• Bachelor's , 56%
• Master's , 13%
• Doctorate , 10%
• Associate , 9%
• Other Degrees , 12%

What should I major in to become a medical researcher?

You should major in biology to become a medical researcher. 22% of medical researchers major in biology. Other common majors for a medical researcher include business and medicine.

• Biology , 22%
• Business , 10%
• Medicine , 10%
• Nursing , 8%
• Other Majors , 50%

Most common colleges for medical researchers

Medical researchers often get their degrees at University of California - Davis, University of Phoenix, and University of Florida. Here are the most common colleges for medical researchers in the US based on their resumes.

Best majors for medical researchers

Best colleges for medical researchers

The top colleges for medical researchers include University of Southern California, Duke University, and University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. These institutions are significant for medical researchers as they offer advanced education, leading to better career opportunities and higher salaries. The best schools' list is based on factors such as admission rate, retention rate, and graduates' earnings. Aspiring medical researchers typically need a Doctorate degree for career advancement.

1. University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA • Private

In-State Tuition

2. Duke University

Durham, NC • Private

3. University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI • Private

4. Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY • Private

5. Harvard University

Cambridge, MA • Private

6. University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA • Private

7. University of California - Los Angeles

8. Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD • Private

9. Stanford University

Stanford, CA • Private

10. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC • Private

20 best online courses for medical researchers

1. Understanding Clinical Research: Behind the Statistics

If you’ve ever skipped over the results section of a medical paper because terms like “confidence interval” or “p-value” go over your head, then you’re in the right place. You may be a clinical practitioner reading research articles to keep up-to-date with developments in your field or a medical student wondering how to approach your own research. Greater confidence in understanding statistical analysis and the results can benefit both working professionals and those undertaking research...

2. Practical Regulatory Affairs 2020 - US FDA Medical Devices

A practical course discussing the US FDA Medical Device regulations for real-world situations...

3. Medical Device Regulation 2017/745 EU regulatory affairs.

Understand regulations for medical devices in simple terms to gain market approval of a medical device in the EU...

4. EU Medical Device Regulatory Affairs explained Simply

How to get approval to sell Medical Devices within the European Union. Understand regulatory affairs & ISO 13485 2016...

5. Practical Regulatory Affairs 2020 - European Medical Devices

A practical course discussing the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) in real-world situations...

6. Medical Device Regulation (MDR): Intro for Device Designers

An introduction to the EU's Medical Device Regulation (MDR) for those involved in developing medical devices...

7. ICD 10 & 11 Medical Coding and Billing

Preparation for Medical Coding Certification Exam...

8. Speak Medical Spanish to Your Patients and Clients

Spanish essentials for healthcare; program teaches correct pronunciation, pain management and medication, among others...

9. Medical Devices Quality Management System - ISO 13485:2016

Awareness and Application for the requirements of ISO 13485:2016 for Medical Device Development and QMS...

10. ISO 13485 Demystified - Medical Devices' QMS 360° Insights

Deep dive into the world of ISO 13485 international standard for medical devices' QMS, basic concepts & requirements...

11. Medical Terminology

Introduction to the meaning of various roots, terms and combining forms that are components of medical words...

12. Medical Device Process Validation. ISO 13485. IQ OQ PQ.

Validate a process to gain approval to sell medical devices in the EU, U.S. & Internationally. Compliance to ISO 13485...

13. ISO 13485 - IQOQPQ - Process Validation for Medical Devices

Installation Qualification (IQ), Operational Qualification (OQ) & Performance Qualification (PQ) Medical Devices...

14. Internal audit on Medical Device QMS - ISO 13485:2016

Successfully conduct an internal audit based on requirements of ISO 13485:2016 for Medical Device Development and QMS...

15. ISO 13485:2016 - Design and Development of Medical Devices

Design and Development of Medical Devices in the perspective of ISO 13485:2016 and Medical Devices Industry...

16. A Specialty Approach to Learning Medical Billing and Coding

Volume One: Medical Hematology...

17. Deep Learning with PyTorch for Medical Image Analysis

Learn how to use Pytorch-Lightning to solve real world medical imaging tasks!...

18. AMCI Introduction to Medical Coding (I2MC) Course

Introduction to Medical Coding (I2MC) Course...

19. Introduction to Medical Imaging

Your guide to the history, science, math, and economics of medical imaging systems (e.g., X-ray, CT, MRI, Ultrasound)...

20. The Beginners Course for Clinical Research

The Essentials of Clinical Trials - Clinical Research for Beginners...

Top 10 most affordable universities for medical researchers

The most affordable schools for medical researchers are University of Florida, hunter college of the city university of new york, and california state university - long beach.

If the best universities for medical researchers are out of your price range, check out these affordable schools. After factoring in in-state tuition and fees, the average cost of attendance, admissions rate, average net price, and mean earnings after six years, we found that these are the most affordable schools for medical researchers.

1. University of Florida

Gainesville, FL • Private

Cost of Attendance

2. Hunter College of the City University of New York

3. California State University - Long Beach

Long Beach, CA • Private

4. California State University - Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA • Private

5. California State University - Los Angeles

6. California State University - Fullerton

Fullerton, CA • Private

7. University of South Florida

Tampa, FL • Private

8. Brigham Young University

Provo, UT • Private

9. Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL • Private

10. Brooklyn College of the City University of New York

Brooklyn, NY • Private

Top 10 hardest universities to get into for medical researchers

The hardest universities for medical researchers to get into are Duke University, Harvard University, and Columbia University in the City of New York.

Some great schools for medical researchers are hard to get into, but they also set your career up for greater success. The list below shows the most challenging universities to get into for medical researchers based on an institution's admissions rates, average SAT scores accepted, median ACT scores accepted, and mean earnings of students six years after admission.

1. Duke University

Admissions Rate

SAT Average

2. Harvard University

3. columbia university in the city of new york, 4. university of pennsylvania, 5. stanford university, 6. johns hopkins university.

7. Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • Private

8. Yale University

New Haven, CT • Private

9. University of Chicago

Chicago, IL • Private

10. Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN • Private

Top 10 easy-to-apply-to universities for medical researchers

The easiest schools for medical researchers to get into are D'Youville College, mount saint mary's university, and barry university.

Some schools are much easier to get into. If you want to start your career as a medical researcher without much hassle, check out the list of schools where you will be accepted in no time. We compiled admissions rates, average SAT scores, average ACT scores, and average salary of students six years after graduation to uncover which were the easiest schools to get into for medical researchers.

1. D'Youville College

Buffalo, NY • Private

2. Mount Saint Mary's University

3. Barry University

Miami, FL • Private

4. Curry College

Milton, MA • Private

5. Notre Dame de Namur University

Belmont, CA • Private

6. University of the Incarnate Word

San Antonio, TX • Private

7. Wayland Baptist University

Plainview, TX • Private

8. Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd Valley, PA • Private

9. Marymount University

Arlington, VA • Private

10. The University of Texas at El Paso

El Paso, TX • Private

Average medical researcher salary by education level

Medical researchers with a Doctorate degree earn more than those without, at $62,945 annually. With a Master's degree, medical researchers earn a median annual income of $58,365 compared to $56,615 for medical researchers with an Bachelor's degree.

Medical Researcher Education FAQs

What is the best college for medical researchers, search for medical researcher jobs.

Updated April 5, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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