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Research Scientist

Science & Technology · Research & Innovation Official scale

Conduct scientific research to advance knowledge in agriculture, environment, health, and technology. Research scientists work in government agencies, universities, and research institutions.

Salary Breakdown

$2,190,302 JMD – $3,770,761 JMD
0 - 3 years

Scientific officer grades SOG/ST 3 ($2,190,302 - $2,945,712) and SOG/ST 4 ($2,803,771 - $3,770,761) per annum - Ministry of Finance scale, 2025/26.

Estimated Take-Home Pay

Based on the midpoint of the Entry salary range ($2,980,532 JMD), after NIS, NHT, Education Tax, and PAYE.

Est. Net / Month$209,938 JMD
Est. Net / Year$2,519,266 JMD
Show deduction breakdown
Gross (annual)
$2,980,532 JMD
NIS (3%)
−$89,415 JMD
NHT (2%)
−$59,610 JMD
Education Tax
−$65,050 JMD
PAYE Income Tax
−$247,189 JMD
Net (annual)
$2,519,266 JMD

Estimate only — illustrative rates and thresholds, not tax advice. Confirm current figures with Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) and the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).

Career Path Roadmap

  1. 1

    High School & CXC Subjects

    Pass CSEC Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Mathematics, and English.

    5 years (Forms 1-5)
  2. 2

    BSc in a Science Discipline

    Pursue a BSc in Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, or related field at UWI or UTech.

    3 - 4 years
  3. 3

    MSc or PhD (Recommended)

    Pursue postgraduate studies at UWI or overseas. Specialise in your area of interest.

    2 - 5 years
  4. 4

    Research Assistant

    Work as a Research Assistant (SOG/ST 1) at a university or government agency.

    1 - 3 years
  5. 5

    Research Officer

    Progress to SOG/ST 2-3. Lead research projects, publish in journals, and secure funding.

    3 - 5 years
  6. 6

    Senior Scientist / Research Director

    Move into leadership (SOG/ST 4). Direct research programmes and influence national policy.

    5+ years
Build My Roadmap for This Career

Required Education

  • CSEC/CXC Sciences, Mathematics, English (minimum 5 subjects)
  • BSc in a Science Discipline
  • MSc or PhD (recommended for senior roles)

Common Local Certifications

  • Postgraduate research qualifications
  • Specialist certifications in research methodology

Where to Train

Northern Caribbean University

Manchester · Private University
Accredited 13 accredited programmes

Offers Bachelor of Science in Biology

University of Technology, Jamaica

Kingston & St. Andrew · Public University
Accredited 17 accredited programmes

A recommended place to train as a Research Scientist

University of the West Indies, Mona

Kingston & St. Andrew · Public University
Accredited 12 accredited programmes

A recommended place to train as a Research Scientist

Local Institutions Offering Programs

  • University of the West Indies, Mona (UWI) - Faculty of Science & Technology
  • University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech)
  • Employer route: Scientific Research Council (SRC) research posts and internships