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Job outlook for medical science liaisons in the United States
Are medical science liaison jobs in demand?
Medical Science Liaison job and salary trends over time
Medical Science Liaison jobs over time
Medical Science Liaison job growth rate over time
Year  | # Of Jobs | % Of Population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 1,019 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 1,184 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 1,194 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 1,129 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 1,048 | 0.00% |
Average medical science liaison salary over time
Medical Science Liaison salary by year
| Year | Avg. Salary | Hourly Rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $145,718 | $70.06 | +3.1% |
| 2024 | $141,387 | $67.97 | +4.7% |
| 2023 | $135,049 | $64.93 | +3.3% |
| 2022 | $130,718 | $62.85 | +1.9% |
| 2021 | $128,234 | $61.65 | --2.1% |
Medical Science Liaison jobs by state
Most common states for medical science liaisons
| Rank | State | Population | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 275 | 40% |
| 2 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 1,721 | 25% |
| 3 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 487 | 25% |
| 4 | Delaware | 961,939 | 207 | 22% |
| 5 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,188 | 21% |
| 6 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 582 | 20% |
| 7 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 390 | 19% |
| 8 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 327 | 19% |
| 9 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 2,123 | 17% |
| 10 | Missouri | 6,113,532 | 1,015 | 17% |
| 11 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 1,678 | 16% |
| 12 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 283 | 16% |
| 13 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 1,248 | 15% |
| 14 | Kentucky | 4,454,189 | 620 | 14% |
| 15 | Nevada | 2,998,039 | 418 | 14% |
| 16 | California | 39,536,653 | 5,036 | 13% |
| 17 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 575 | 12% |
| 18 | Arkansas | 3,004,279 | 374 | 12% |
| 19 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 986 | 11% |
| 20 | Vermont | 623,657 | 62 | 10% |
Most common cities for medical science liaisons
| Rank | City | # of Jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cambridge | 6 | 5% | $142,066 |
| 2 | Hartford | 5 | 4% | $165,878 |
| 3 | Springfield | 5 | 4% | $144,768 |
| 4 | Des Moines | 6 | 3% | $130,742 |
| 5 | Little Rock | 6 | 3% | $118,275 |
| 6 | Topeka | 4 | 3% | $119,779 |
| 7 | Boston | 12 | 2% | $141,948 |
| 8 | Atlanta | 10 | 2% | $96,872 |
| 9 | Baton Rouge | 4 | 2% | $82,148 |
| 10 | Chicago | 17 | 1% | $155,473 |
| 11 | Phoenix | 10 | 1% | $139,561 |
| 12 | Washington | 10 | 1% | $153,848 |
| 13 | Indianapolis | 7 | 1% | $178,702 |
| 14 | San Francisco | 6 | 1% | $184,619 |
| 15 | Miami | 5 | 1% | $84,803 |
| 16 | Baltimore | 4 | 1% | $148,441 |
| 17 | Denver | 4 | 1% | $130,068 |
| 18 | Detroit | 4 | 1% | $147,426 |
| 19 | Los Angeles | 4 | 0% | $166,678 |
| 20 | San Diego | 4 | 0% | $158,479 |
Medical Science Liaison job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of medical science liaison experts
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Western Kentucky University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
La Salle University
Kansas State University
University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
University of Indianapolis
University of Indianapolis
University of Kansas
Bethune-Cookman University
University of San Francisco
What general advice would you give to a Medical Science Liaison?
Aaron Hagedorn: Just as social connections are important for healthy aging, professional connections are the key to being in the right place at the right time. Conferences, workshops, and alumni events can pay dividends in opportunities if you can leave a good impression on those you meet. Keep an open mind about how your career may evolve as the world changes with new ways of providing services and opportunities to improve how we experience aging. The traits that make you stand out to employers and your clients will likely be the same traits that made you choose Gerontology in the first place. The capacity to demonstrate empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to improve quality of life for older or disabled people is a rare trait, and appreciated by those who work in the field. Staying informed about the latest research, developments, and trends in gerontology could never hurt. If you stand out from the crowd and use your voice and expertise to advocate for policies, programs, and services that promote the well-being and rights of older adults at the local, national, or international levels you will have a reputation for leadership that could take you far in life, and maybe have an impact on the world around you.
What will help Medical Science Liaisons increase their earning potential?
Dr. Candace Brown PhD, FGSA: We are in the age of technology that is constantly evolving. While there is a myth that older adults do not like nor want to learn about technology, this is further from the truth. Most older adults wish to stay engaged in their ever changing world. Technology is one of the ways older adults of today have personally experienced the changes. Communications, STEM, social sciences, education, public health, all of these disciplines and more have created or use technology. Jobs and careers from these disciplines all use technology. And since technology encompasses so many different types of inventions for use, I do believe that we are going to see more gerontologists in fields that are related to tech so they may assist the older adult population.
Patrice Blanchard
Instructor, GERO 100Western Kentucky University
Department of Applied Human Sciences
What skills stand out on Medical Science Liaison resumes?
Patrice Blanchard: -creative problem-solving - the multi-faceted situations faced by gerontologists require an ability to think -fast and outside-the-box
-discernment in recognizing valid data sources and in making comparisons within age groups and cohorts
-participation at conferences and professional memberships, e.g., GSA, ASA, AGHE, and LeadingAge
What soft skills should all Medical Science Liaisons possess?
Patrice Blanchard: -excellent written and verbal communication skills
-flexibility and ability to innovate
-patience and empathy for the physical and emotional changes that aging brings
What hard/technical skills are most important for Medical Science Liaisons?
Patrice Blanchard: -a thorough understanding of the diversity of the aging experience
-knowledge about cohort and generational differences
-person-centered advocacy skills
Pamela Teaster Ph.D.
Professor and Director, Center for GerontologyVirginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Department of Human Development and Family
What skills stand out on Medical Science Liaison resumes?
Pamela Teaster Ph.D.: Standout skills include the ability to both conduct and critique all kinds of scholarship, an indication of interest and depth in a particular area of work related to older adults, and a demonstrated understanding of the nuances of older adults.
What soft skills should all Medical Science Liaisons possess?
Pamela Teaster Ph.D.: Soft skills include the ability to communicate effectively-writing, working in a group, empathy, and a demonstrable work ethic.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Medical Science Liaisons?
Pamela Teaster Ph.D.: Hard skills that are important are the ability to conduct analysis and the ability to process and distill information. Also important is the ability to locate and digest information as well as write about it and speak about it effectively.
What skills will help Medical Science Liaisons earn the most?
Pamela Teaster Ph.D.: Analytic skills in any discipline that have to do with older people are really key.
Kristen Overbaugh Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Department of NursingLa Salle University
School of Nursing and Health Sciences
What skills stand out on Medical Science Liaison resumes?
Kristen Overbaugh Ph.D.: As gerontology describes the study of aging, there is a spectrum of career opportunities for individuals trained as gerontologists based on their educational preparation, which can range from an associate degree or certificate to a doctoral degree.
Today, gerontologists who can demonstrate skills or highlight experiences focused on integrating innovation, securing funding, or facilitating diversity, equity, and inclusion to improve the quality of life and well-being of older adults on their resumes may stand out.
What soft skills should all Medical Science Liaisons possess?
Kristen Overbaugh Ph.D.: I believe that the soft skills that are most important for all gerontologists include communication, collaboration, compassion, problem-solving, and creativity.
What skills will help Medical Science Liaisons earn the most?
Kristen Overbaugh Ph.D.: Advanced education, ongoing professional development, and seeking out mentors in gerontology will provide individuals the best opportunities to enhance their earning potential.
Erin Yelland Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Interim Director, Center on Aging, Associate Editor, Journal of ExtensionKansas State University
Department of Applied Human Sciences
What skills stand out on Medical Science Liaison resumes?
Erin Yelland Ph.D.: Gerontology is very much an applied field - we study people, after all! Our best instructors have had real-world, professional experience and have worked alongside older adults in some capacity. Let me be clear though, having a job before becoming an instructor isn't the only option. Experiences through volunteerism, a practicum, or an internship also count! The more engaged you are or were outside of your education in the classroom, the better your chances you will be considered for the position.
What soft skills should all Medical Science Liaisons possess?
Erin Yelland Ph.D.: Demonstrated dedication to students and their academic success is critical. Being a great instructor isn't determined by how well you can stand in front of a classroom and lecture from a PowerPoint. A great instructor is instructional creative, passionate about each of their students, and committed to empowering their students to succeed academically and in their future profession. Listening, clear communication, patience, and supportive social skills all play a role in an instructor's effectiveness.
I dislike categorizing this as a soft skill, but it is often classified as such, so we will roll with it: diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). All instructors, not just good ones, must be committed to the DEI of students, staff, faculty, and the entire campus community. Period. It's a non-negotiable.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Medical Science Liaisons?
Erin Yelland Ph.D.: Two that come to the top of mind, both of which have been amplified by the pandemic. First, a necessary skill is the ability to competently use various instructional platforms and technology-based engagement tools. When online education is prevalent and remote workforces are growing, innovative and contemporary technologies are essential for both pedagogical and student career success. Second, in the current climate of higher education, having demonstrated strategies and skills for student recruitment and yield is critical and highly valued. Recruitment is everyone's responsibility, and big ideas can equal big opportunities for you, even as an instructor.
Chantelle Caro Ph.D.
Assistant Professor in the Gerontology programUniversity of North Carolina at Greensboro.
Social Work Department which houses the Gerontology Program
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Medical Science Liaisons?
Chantelle Caro Ph.D.: I certainly believe there will be and is already an impact of the coronavirus pandemic on graduate students. In our program, that impact is both personal and professional. As many of our students already work in aging services and are having to navigate restrictions that are meant to protect their residents/clients, but also make traditional measures of care more complicated at times. I do think we have seen organizations serving the needs of older adults starting to consider and implement innovative ways to provide remote supports and resources. It is hard to speculate the length of time the toll of this pandemic will linger on with graduates. However, what I have witnessed is students and individuals passionate about aging services continuously adapting and finding the best ways to serve the older adult population.
What's a good job out of college for Medical Science Liaisons?
Chantelle Caro Ph.D.: In the field of gerontology, a good job out of college would be one that aligns with the skill sets you have developed. Many people refer to this concept of "being a good fit." A graduate degree in gerontology provides students with the interpersonal skills to work in a team, communicate with colleagues and older adults they are serving, being able to connect theory to practice if and when organizations are developing and implementing new programming, and so much more. The really great part of gerontology is that these skills can be applied to a variety of organizations ranging from working in local government in Area Agencies on Aging, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, senior retirement communities, consulting for organizations wanting to ensure fair practices for their older employees, etc. Also, in many areas across the country there is an increasing need for individuals specializing in the diverse needs of the older adult population. This need provides tremendous opportunity for individuals who have bolstered their prior or current work experience with a degree in gerontology.
What will help Medical Science Liaisons increase their earning potential?
Chantelle Caro Ph.D.: The field of gerontology is so vast, there are so many different paths a person could take in establishing a career. Many of our students at UNC Greensboro are focusing on careers within industry. In thinking about this group of people, there are many areas across the country (and globally) identifying an increasing need for individuals specializing in the diverse needs of the older adult population. This need provides tremendous opportunity for individuals who have bolstered their prior or current work experience with a graduate degree in gerontology. As a potential candidate on the job market, you are now able to translate evidence-based research into practice in the field.
Tamara Wolske MS, MPhil, CPG, CSA
Academic Program Director, Assistant Professor of Aging StudiesUniversity of Indianapolis
Department of Interprofessional Health & Aging Studies
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Medical Science Liaisons?
Tamara Wolske MS, MPhil, CPG, CSA: Yes, based on the history of previous pandemics, every facet of life changes to some degree. The impact will diminish over time though and whatever adjustments were made to deal with the coronavirus will determine how quickly the "problems" from coronavirus melt into the hazy memory for future generations (much like the absence of the Spanish flu of 1918 was not mentioned until recently when the COVID-19 took hold and stopped the world on its axis).
There are three important components for every graduate to consider:
What sets me apart from all the other people graduating now with my same degree?
How do I emphasize what sets me apart (above) all the other recent graduates with my same degree (or something similar enough)?
Why do I want this particular job in this particular company? (Essential to articulate in your cover letter).
What type of skills will young Medical Science Liaisons need?
Tamara Wolske MS, MPhil, CPG, CSA: The future is certainly going to require the skills and ability to navigate in the digital realm. One thing the coronavirus pandemic has made obvious (even though it was evident prior to the pandemic) is at the very minimum . . . people need to be able to access learning online (e. g. academic pursuits, trainings, instructional videos, etc.), conduct teaching/coaching online (e. g. to employees, customers, constituents, etc.), and conducting orders online and tracking activities. Some of the optimal skills include using data mining software, marketing/outreach and analytics software, and customer relationship management (CRM) software applications, and for the more ambitious, study coding because every employer needs someone who can do it well and be trusted to keep their data safe. Some social media expertise and activity is beneficial as well, but it is prone to fluctuations in popularism.
What experience really stands out on Medical Science Liaison resumes?
Tamara Wolske MS, MPhil, CPG, CSA: Such a great question and the very reason it is important to tailor your application and resume specifically to the employer. Generic does not work in this labor market. Do your research and find out what the mission, vision and priorities are for the company. Google search not only the company, but also the current President / CEO, COO, CFO, and any other major players (Board members), etc. to find out who is involved, what do they mention online (advertise in their online bio or the company website description) and how well do you mesh with their focus and culture?
Tailor your resume to promote your personal 'brand' with your interests that align to the company's emphasis. Selling your "match" to the company is not only easier, it is better for you (and them) in the long run. No one wants a transient employee (if they do, they hire a contractor). They want to get the impression you are in it for the long haul because employee orientation and training is expensive and affects the moral of the existing employee base. Also, most employees do not fully integrate and contribute their potential until they have been in a position for 3-6 months (depending on the level of knowledge and expertise needed).
Connect your personal mission to your personal experience. If an employer (or screener) can see you volunteer in a way that aligns with your interests and experiences, they see a level of maturity and focus that will translate well into their environment. Live what you believe and document it so it is clear you are stable, consistent and determined to make a difference with your time (paid or unpaid) and it will be recognized. Better to be authentic than flashy, but don't be afraid to research and use some key terms in your cover letter and resume that a data search will bring to an employer's attention: Here's your person!
Dr. Sharon Baggett Ph.D.
Associate ProfessorUniversity of Indianapolis
Department of Interprofessional Health & Aging Studies & Center for Aging and Community
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Medical Science Liaisons?
Dr. Sharon Baggett Ph.D.: Most professions will ensure some longer term impact of the coronavirus pandemic. For graduates in gerontology there is both the potential for actual growth of possible jobs in some areas, e.g., health care, while other job areas may take time to recover, e.g., service industries serving older adults and social services which may see cuts as state and local economies struggle to recover from budget deficits.
For many of our students who either achieve a dual degree in gerontology and another health profession (physical therapy, occupational therapy) or obtain a certificate in gerontology alongside their primary professional degree, the future looks very bright. The demographics of aging are not shifting due to the coronavirus and health care will continue to grow in serving the increasing older population.
In addition, just due to the growing aging population, I tell students that any profession you are planning on in the future is going to need understanding of aging, whether it be in banking, law, real estate, business development, technology design, exercise science, or other. Every profession is going to serve more older people and need people who understand the unique needs and interests of older adults.
What type of skills will young Medical Science Liaisons need?
Dr. Sharon Baggett Ph.D.: Graduates in gerontology must be skilled in working with multi-disciplinary teams. They will increasingly need to understand the roles technology will play in supporting aging in our communities. They will likely need to be effective advocates, and in that role be able to counter ageism that persists in our society.
What experience really stands out on Medical Science Liaison resumes?
Dr. Sharon Baggett Ph.D.: In preparing our graduating students to enter the workforce or change positions, we emphasize creating resumes that reflect what one can do, rather than what you know. So, rather than saying I have knowledge of mental health issues of older adults, say I can effectively assess the mental health of older adults, work with a multi-disciplinary team to develop care plans, and monitor and assess ongoing mental health status. If one has worked in different settings with older adults, e.g., in home health, in acute care, and long term care, showcasing the breadth of experience is excellent. We also ask graduating students to develop a professional statement to include on their resumes. It is intended to tell potential employers what they can do, i.e., what they will bring to the position in concrete terms. And, as always, if a gerontology graduate has informal experience, e.g., volunteer or faith-based or some other experience with older adults, that stands out as well.
Amber Watts Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Clinical PsychologyUniversity of Kansas
Department of Psychology
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Medical Science Liaison job market given the pandemic?
Amber Watts Ph.D.: The pandemic has affected older adults more than any other group. The field of gerontology is going full steam to address the many issues faced by older adults in the pandemic, not just limited to preventing and treating COVID-19, but ensuring older people have adequate social support, they can get the supplies and services they need, and can access the technologies that make living in a pandemic possible. Gerontology-related jobs in hospitals, nursing home administration, and senior services are going to be in high demand.
What Medical Science Liaison skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Amber Watts Ph.D.: Building up skills that help prepare for your career goals is always an advantage. There are sure to be hospitals, nursing homes, senior centers, and other facilities that are looking for volunteers or hourly workers to support older adults' wellness and give a rest to those health care workers that have been tirelessly serving throughout the pandemic. It's always a good idea to build up your resume with volunteer work, online or in person certificate programs, or entry level jobs. All of these can really help prepare you for when the economy opens up again.
Graduate school admissions are going to be affected by the pandemic because many universities are facing budget shortfalls that prevent them from financially supporting the number of graduate students they would normally support through research and teaching assistantships and other forms of financial aid. On the other hand, programs that gain tuition dollars from enrollments are going to be recruiting to get as many students into them as possible. There are many master's level programs that offer certificates and training in professional-services-related gerontology, rather than the more academic/research-oriented areas of gerontology study.
What general advice would you give to a Medical Science Liaison?
Amber Watts Ph.D.: Think about what you want your life to look like, not just your job. Your job has to fit into your life. Do you want a fast paced, achievement-oriented job that may require sacrificing hobbies, family, and relationships? Or would you rather have a regular 40 hour a week job that allows you to balance things out a bit? Is money your primary aim or career advancement? Or helping others? Do you want to work in an office at a desk? Work directly with people? Do you mind traveling for the job? These are all things to consider. Don't forget, too, that the other people you work with can often be more important to job satisfaction than the actual work that you do.
What type of skills will young Medical Science Liaisons need?
Dr. Ashley Jennings: Graduates will need to be effective leaders as well as strong collaborators. They should be compassionate, innovative, adaptable, emotionally intelligent, community-centered, and proficient as older adult advocates; also they need to be researchers. There is room for creativity and entrepreneurship in the field of gerontology, to find untapped resources and niches. Young graduates can carve out a unique space in this field or pursue careers in established areas. More so, the opportunities are endless to use their voices to educate others on issues such as health equity, food insecurity, mental health issues, elder abuse, caregiver support, or ageism in the workforce. Lastly, it's important that graduates feel comfortable incorporating their lived experiences, drawing from them to be better critical thinkers and decision makers.
What experience really stands out on Medical Science Liaison resumes?
Dr. Ashley Jennings: Student activities within the major, leadership roles, community service, research and grant writing, and certifications are important. I would also add, participation in professional organizations and attendance at national conferences are excellent for networking and exposure to the field. It's critical that graduates have a holistic college experience that allows them to transition into their future careers.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Medical Science Liaison job market given the pandemic?
Erin Grinshteyn Ph.D.: I think we need more people with training in gerontology to meet the needs of older adults who have been uniquely affected by this pandemic. This could include those with gerontology training in public health, social work, psychology, and other fields.
What skills stand out on Medical Science Liaison resumes?
Erin Grinshteyn Ph.D.: I think this really depends on the field and is too broad for me to be able to comment on.