12 Career Paths for Ph.D. Life Scientists Beyond the Lab

Earning a Ph.D. in the life sciences doesn’t mean you have to spend your entire career working in a laboratory. Many scientists reach a point where they desire a change — whether it’s seeking new challenges, wanting more human interaction, or simply realizing that benchwork isn’t their passion. Fortunately, there’s a broad range of career opportunities outside of the lab for life science Ph.D. holders.

1. Technical Writing

Ph.D. graduates with strong writing skills are in high demand in the biopharma industry. Writing grants, regulatory documents, and scientific content requires technical expertise. In 2023, technical writers earned an average of $83,736.

2. Business Analysis

Ph.D.s often apply their analytical training in financial roles, particularly with biotech investment firms or venture capital groups. Median pay for financial analysts reached $99,890 in 2023.

3. Biotech and Pharma Sales

This people-focused role can be a great fit for extroverted scientists. With base salaries and commissions, professionals earned an average of $126,036 in 2023.

4. Bioinformatics

Merging biology with data science, bioinformatics experts analyze genetic and molecular data. The average annual salary was $110,133 as of late 2024.

5. Medical Science Liaison (MSL)

MSLs communicate scientific information to healthcare providers and help shape company strategy. Their 2023 average base salary was $192,454.

6. Competitive Intelligence

This field involves analyzing markets to predict product success. Market research analysts had a median income of $74,680 in 2023.

7. Drug Safety & Pharmacovigilance

These professionals ensure drug safety by tracking side effects and regulatory compliance. Senior specialists earned around $105,960.

8. Consulting

Experienced Ph.D.s may transition into consulting, offering expertise to a range of clients. Income varies with workload and client base.

9. Quality Control & Assurance (QC/QA)

QC/QA specialists ensure the safety and consistency of drug production. In 2023, quality analysts earned $62,595 on average.

10. Regulatory Affairs

Professionals in this field handle filings and approvals with regulatory bodies. Regulatory specialists earned an average of $93,553.

11. Marketing Manager

Marketing managers plan and execute promotional strategies for biotech products. The average 2023 salary was $131,067.

12. Business Development

This role involves identifying growth opportunities and creating expansion strategies. Sales managers in this sector earned about $123,559 in 2023.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning from a lab-based role doesn’t mean leaving science behind. Many Ph.D.s find fulfilling careers by leveraging their scientific mindset in new ways. Focus on your broader skills, not just your degree, and embrace opportunities to learn. And above all — network. Building strong professional connections can open doors you hadn’t even considered.