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Science Leadership Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Merck Group

Head of Science Operations

Billerica, MA · On-site

Reporting directly to the head of AIDD, this is a senior scientific leadership role with direct responsibility for a team of medicinal and synthetic chemists, biologists, and automation scientists.

New Logic Marine Science Camp

Summer Support Staff

Belmar, NJ · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Join our team for an unforgettable summer of hands-on science, leadership, and outdoor education! Availability: * Programs run from mid-June through early September. * Required participation for the ...

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Science Leadership information

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$80.5K

$111.9K

$144K

How much do science leadership jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for science leadership in the United States is $111,876.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I do with a Masters of science in leadership?

A Masters of Science in Leadership prepares individuals for management roles across various industries, including science, healthcare, and technology. Graduates can pursue positions such as project manager, team leader, or department head, often requiring strong communication, strategic planning, and organizational skills. The degree can also support advancement into executive or administrative roles, especially when combined with relevant experience or certifications.

What does a science lead do?

A science lead oversees scientific projects, guides research teams, and ensures the accuracy and quality of scientific work. They often coordinate experiments, analyze data, and communicate findings to stakeholders, requiring strong leadership, technical expertise, and knowledge of scientific tools and methodologies.

What is the highest paid job in science?

In science leadership, executive roles such as Chief Scientific Officer or Vice President of Research tend to be the highest paid, often earning six-figure salaries or more. These positions require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and strong management skills, and they typically oversee research strategies and scientific teams within organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Science Leadership roles, and how can they be effectively managed?

Professionals in Science Leadership roles often encounter challenges such as balancing administrative duties with scientific research, managing interdisciplinary teams, and ensuring clear communication across departments. Navigating conflicting priorities and fostering an environment that encourages innovation while maintaining project timelines are also frequent hurdles. These challenges can be effectively managed by developing strong organizational skills, delegating responsibilities appropriately, and promoting open, transparent communication within the team. Additionally, ongoing leadership training and mentorship can help cultivate the skills needed to address both scientific and managerial aspects of the role.

What is science leadership?

Science leadership refers to the roles and responsibilities of individuals who guide scientific research, innovation, and policy within organizations or institutions. Science leaders often direct research teams, manage projects, secure funding, and help set scientific priorities. They play a key role in fostering collaboration, mentoring junior scientists, and ensuring ethical standards. Effective science leaders also communicate scientific findings to stakeholders and the public, influencing the direction of scientific advancement.

What jobs will be left by 2030?

By 2030, roles in science leadership such as research directors, project managers, and science policy advisors are expected to remain in demand due to ongoing need for expertise in scientific innovation and management. However, automation and AI tools may reduce demand for routine administrative or data entry positions within scientific organizations. Strong leadership, communication, and technical skills will be essential for these roles to adapt to evolving technologies.

What is the difference between Science Leadership vs Research Scientist?

AspectScience LeadershipResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD), leadership experienceTypically PhD or Master's, specialized research skills
Work EnvironmentManagement, strategic planning, team oversightLaboratory or field research, data analysis
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, biotech, pharma, academiaUniversities, research labs, industry R&D
Common Search & ComparisonLeadership roles in scienceHands-on research roles

Science Leadership involves managing teams, setting research strategies, and overseeing projects, often requiring leadership experience and advanced degrees. Research Scientists focus on conducting experiments, analyzing data, and advancing scientific knowledge through hands-on research. While both roles are integral to scientific progress, Science Leadership emphasizes management and strategic planning, whereas Research Scientists concentrate on experimental work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Science Leadership, and why are they important?

To thrive in Science Leadership, you need a strong background in a scientific discipline, experience in research management, and often an advanced degree such as a PhD. Familiarity with data analysis software, project management tools, and grant-writing systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, strategic thinking, and team-building abilities set outstanding science leaders apart. These competencies enable effective guidance of research teams, secure funding, and foster innovation in scientific organizations.
More about Science Leadership jobs
What cities are hiring for Science Leadership jobs? Cities with the most Science Leadership job openings:
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Science Leadership jobs near you
Infographic showing various Science Leadership job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,876 per year, or $53.8 per hour.
Technical Project Manager (Data Science)

Technical Project Manager (Data Science)

Vizient

Chicago, IL

$77K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

When you're the best, we're the best. We instill an environment where employees feel engaged, satisfied and able to contribute their unique skills and talents while living and working as their authentic selves. We provide extensive opportunities for personal and professional development, building both employee competence and organizational capability to fuel exceptional performance through an inclusive environment both now and in the future.

Summary:

In this role, you will lead complex, enterprise-level technology initiatives within Data Science. You will partner closely with Data Science leadership, business stakeholders, architects, engineers, and external vendors to deliver projects that support Vizient's strategic priorities and long-term technology roadmap. You will ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with operational, security, and architectural standards while regularly communicates project progress, risks, and mitigation strategies.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead cross-functional Data Science projects from initiation to implementation and operational transition utilizing various methodologies.
  • Develop project artifacts including charters, schedules, budgets, status reports, and risk registers.
  • Drive accountability across technical teams, vendors, and business stakeholders.
  • Serve as primary liaison between business owners, Data Science teams, and vendors.
  • Facilitate project meetings, executive updates, and decision-making forums.
  • Communicate project status, risks, and mitigation plans to leadership and executives.
  • Proactively manage risks, issues, dependencies, and change requests.
  • Ensure project objectives align with business outcomes and enterprise technology strategy.
  • Partner with enterprise architects, infrastructure, and data science teams to ensure compliance with standards.
  • Translate technical concepts into business-focused communication for executives and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Oversee vendor deliverables, SOWs, and integration activities.

Qualifications:

  • Relevant degree preferred in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, Business, or related field
  • 2 or more years of relevant experience with IT/Data Science project management and demonstrated success leading enterprise technical initiatives is required.
  • Experience leading small and large projects is required.
  • Experience working in a matrixed environment with cross-functional teams.
  • Strong understanding of Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), infrastructure, cloud technologies, and enterprise platforms.
  • Proficiency with Smartsheet, MS Project, Jira, ServiceNow, or similar PM tools.
  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, including executive-level updates.
  • PMP, PgMP, or PMI-ACP certification highly preferred.
  • Experience supporting healthcare, analytics, or SaaS-based environments preferred.
  • Experience working within Complex IT processes, architecture, and governance preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to take ownership, work independently, and drive results in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities, balance competing demands, and meet deadlines.

Estimated Hiring Range:

At Vizient, we consider skills, experience, and organizational needs in our compensation approach. Geographic factors may adjust the range estimate and hires typically fall below the top range. Compensation decisions are tailored to individual circumstances. The current salary range for this role is $77,400.00 to $135,400.00.

This position is also incentive eligible.

Vizient has a comprehensive benefits plan! Please view our benefits here:

http://www.vizientinc.com/about-us/careers

Equal Opportunity Employer: Females/Minorities/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The Company is committed to equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants without regard to race, religion, color, gender identity, ethnicity, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability status, veteran status or any other category protected by applicable law.

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