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Image of career: Medical Scientist

Medical Scientist

Overview

Medical scientists perform research and clinical trials to test drug effects, discovering new methods to improve human health.

Description

  • Conduct research on bacteria and viruses to improve medical products.
  • Review and record technical research reports for accurate documentation and analysis.
  • Study new tests and treatments to determine effectiveness.
  • Record and analyse research results to introduce new treatment methods.
  • Follow standard guidelines to maintain safety protocols and avoid contamination.

Entry requirements

  • You'll need at least a Bachelor's Degree or equivalent in Biomedical Science to get started.

Salary

$4,100 – 7,500

/mo

Salary ranges are estimated based on public information found on Singaporean job portals, including MyCareersFuture, MySkillsFuture. Updated as of 2026.

Trivia

Did you know that medical scientist, Edward Jenner, invented the first smallpox vaccine in 1796? He exposed a gardener's son to virus strains after learning milkmaids who caught the virus rarely got infected again. This paved the way for immunology.

What to expect

You'll need strong interest in medical research as you'll conduct drug trials and discover ways to improve human health. A good biology foundation is essential.

Soft
skills

Problem-Solving

Able to identify and resolve complex challenges using innovative approaches and creative thinking.

Collaboration

Ability to work effectively with research teams, sharing knowledge and contributing to joint medical research.

Adaptability

Able to adapt quickly to new technologies, research methodologies, and evolving developments and discoveries.

Clinical Knowledge

Possess deep understanding of clinical practices and procedures important to medical research and diagnostic work.

Scientific Study

Able to design, conduct, and analyse scientific research studies effectively.

Laboratory Management

Ability to manage laboratory operations, equipment maintenance, safety protocols, and workflow efficiency.

Hard
skills

Frequently asked questions

You may work at healthcare institutions such as hospitals and clinics, research laboratories, and pharmaceutical companies.

Yes, they can pursue a Doctor of Medicine programme at Duke-NUS or universities recognised by the Singapore Medical Council.

Yes, they play a crucial role in every step of the vaccine development process from research to production.

They test drug effectiveness through clinical trials in phases, starting with small-scale safety tests, larger effectiveness trials, and finally large-scale comparisons against existing treatments.

They must follow guidelines for research involving human participants, scientific rigor and transparency, conflicts of interest, and responsible communication and collaboration.