Research and study the inheritance of traits at the molecular, organism or population level. May evaluate or treat patients with genetic disorders.
SOC: 19-1029.03
Common Job Titles
Cardiovascular Geneticist
Medical Geneticist
Research Scientist
Scientist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeAnalyze genetic sequencing data and molecular inheritance patterns using bioinformatics databases and DNA sequence analysis software in research settings.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate patients with genetic disorders integrating clinical findings with genomic data to determine diagnosis and treatment options.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign experimental protocols and research methodologies to investigate trait inheritance at molecular, organism, or population levels independently.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize complex biological and statistical information from multiple genomic datasets using R, Python, and SAS to identify genetic associations and patterns.
Advanced
KnowledgeCompose scientific manuscripts and research reports documenting genetic findings for peer-reviewed publication and presentation to scientific audiences.
Advanced
KnowledgeAssess research proposals and experimental designs applying critical thinking to evaluate scientific validity and ethical considerations.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate hypotheses and strategic objectives for genetic research programs based on emerging genomic knowledge and population-level data.
Advanced
KnowledgeInterpret genome-wide association studies and population genetic data to identify disease susceptibility markers and evolutionary patterns.
Advanced
Hands-onOperate PCR equipment, gel electrophoresis systems, and mass spectrometry instruments following laboratory protocols to analyze genetic material.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate patient-centered communication with complex genetic counseling information when explaining inheritance risks and treatment options to patients and families.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate evidence-based genetic research practices and ethical standards when training junior researchers and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.
Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Geneticists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
59,710
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $54,500. 25th percentile: U.S. $67,950. 50th percentile: U.S. $93,330. 75th percentile: U.S. $121,350. 90th percentile: U.S. $159,780. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$54,500
10% of workers earn the following or more
$159,780
Workers on average earn
$100,440
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Biology4.8/5
English Language4.3/5
Education and Training3.7/5
Mathematics3.7/5
Chemistry3.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
C++
Git
GitHub
Linux
Microsoft Access
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Word
Oracle Java
Perl
Python
R
SAS
Structured query language SQL
UNIX
Technology Skills
Basic Local Alignment Search Tool BLAST
Bioinformatics databases
ClustalW
Database software
Deoxyribonucleic acid DNA sequence analysis software
