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Research Physician Clinical Salary in Palo Alto, CA

How much does a Research Physician Clinical make in Palo Alto, CA?

$312,898 (USD)/year

Average Bonus

$8,010 (USD)

per Year
Total Compensation

$316,768.19

As of July, 23, 2026, the average research physician clinical gross salary in Palo Alto, California is $312,898 or an equivalent hourly rate of $150. In addition, research physician clinicals earn an average bonus of $8,010. An entry level research physician clinical with 1-3 years of experience earns an average salary of $219,321. At the higher end of the pay range, a senior level research physician clinical with 8+ years of experience earns an average salary of $356,222. Salary estimates are based on salary survey data collected directly from employers in Palo Alto, California.
Data powered by ERI

Salary Potential for a Research Physician Clinical

Explore the estimated salary growth for a Research Physician Clinical in Palo Alto, CA for up to 5 years. The estimated salary of a Research Physician Clinical will be $321,254 in 1 year and $356,968 in 5 years.
View Salary by Year
Estimated Salary
$329,832
Average Growth
5.4 %
The estimated salary for a Research Physician Clinical in 2 years is $329,832, which is 5.4 % average growth. This information is based on ERI's compensation database.

Typical Research Physician Clinical Education

This chart displays the highest level of education for Research Physician Clinicals.

  • 0% of Research Physician Clinicals have less than a High School Diploma
  • 0% of Research Physician Clinicals have a High School Diploma
  • 0% of Research Physician Clinicals have an Associate's Degree
  • 0% of Research Physician Clinicals have a Bachelor's Degree
  • 0% of Research Physician Clinicals have a Master's Degree
  • 100% of Research Physician Clinicals have a Doctorate Degree

The typical field of study for a Research Physician Clinical is Biophysics.

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Popular Skills for a Research Physician Clinical

Skills data not available for this job

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Research Physician Clinical Jobs

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Cost of Living in Palo Alto, CA

The cost of living in Palo Alto, CA is 85% higher than the national average.
Cost of living trend higher
85% higher
than the national average
Whether you're planning to move or just want to see the cost of living in different locations, our cost-of-living calculator is the place to start. Compare salaries for other locations by city, U.S. ZIP code, state, or country.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Research Physician Clinical do?
Conceives of and executes clinical research studies and manages the scientific, administrative, and technical activities. Interviews, performs physical exams, and reviews medical history of potential subjects to determine their acceptance into the study based on the eligibility criteria. Conducts the informed consent process. Acts as the principal investigator for the duration of clinical trials and addresses medical issues at study sites. Supports clinical operations in site selection, budget preparation, and establishing study protocol. Completes case report forms and source documentation per protocol requirements. Administers or oversees the administration of test articles such as investigational drugs to subjects and adjusts doses. Evaluates laboratory results and writes reports of research activities and outcomes.
How much does a Research Physician Clinical make in Palo Alto, CA?
The average salary for a Research Physician Clinical is $312,898 per year or $150.43 per hour in Palo Alto, CA. Top earners have reported making up to $356,222. However, the typical pay range in Palo Alto, CA is between $219,321 and $356,222 annually.
What is the salary trajectory for a Research Physician Clinical?
Research Physician Clinical is projected to see a 14.1 % salary change in 5 years.
How can you increase your salary?
Increasing your salary often starts with understanding your value in today’s job market. You can increase your earning potential by building your skills, advancing your education, moving into a new role or industry, switching companies, or negotiating pay.
How can you negotiate a salary offer? 
Negotiating a salary offer involves preparation and finding our your market value. Use our salary calculator to find out how much you should be paid based on what someone in your area, with similar experience, earns. Use this personalized report to help negotiate a higher salary offer or find your dream career. 
What are some factors that impact Research Physician Clinical salaries? 
Several factors can impact your salary, including experience, company size, job market, location, industry, and more. Understanding how these factors affect your role can help you spot pay gaps and provide opportunities for a competitive salary.

About Our Data

This page is an excerpt of the much more complete compensation information available in ERI's Assessor Series.

ERI compiles the most robust and accurate salary, cost-of-living, and executive compensation survey database available. Data are analyzed using AI and traditional statistics, depending on which approach is best for a particular application. ERI collects salary survey data from five different sources, which you can learn about here.

Verified Sources
Data sourced from internal salary surveys, purchased surveys, public sources, HRIS data, and proprietary databases.
Real-Time Data
Our salary database is updated and verified approximately every six weeks.
Quality Assurance
Along with our data scientists, we have included AI in our rigorous process to analyze and provide the highest quality data.

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