Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Physician/Pathologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and study of diseases by examining bodily tissues, cells, and organs. They play a critical role in disease diagnosis, treatment planning, and research by analyzing laboratory results.
Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Internship/residency
Projected Growth: 4.6% (above average)
Annual job openings: 400
Direct AI exposure: 6% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 58% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Specialists in Clinical and Laboratory Medicine. According to the wage tables, average income is $311K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $126K per year | NA per year | $311K per year | NA per year | $607K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $246K above the national average. | ||||
Pathologists typically work in laboratories within hospitals, medical centers, or private labs. They may also work in academic or research institutions. Their work environment is highly technical, requiring the use of microscopes, laboratory equipment, and computer systems. Pathologists often collaborate with other healthcare professionals but have limited direct interaction with patients.
Pathologists are vital to the medical field, as they provide the diagnoses that inform patient treatment plans. They analyze samples from patients to identify diseases like cancer, infectious diseases, and genetic conditions. Pathology is a diverse field that combines science and medicine, requiring pathologists to stay updated on advancements in medical research and technology.
Pathologists work mostly behind the scenes but collaborate closely with other healthcare professionals. They provide consultations to other physicians, helping them understand laboratory findings and their implications for patient care. Pathologists also play a crucial role in medical research, contributing to the understanding of diseases and the development of new treatments.
The career demands a high level of precision, analytical skill, and attention to detail. Pathologists must be adept at interpreting laboratory results and understanding complex medical information. While patient interaction is limited, the impact of a pathologist's work on patient care is significant.
In Canada, becoming a pathologist typically involves completing four years of undergraduate education, followed by four years of medical school leading to a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. Graduates then complete a five-year residency program in pathology, after which some pursue additional fellowship training in subspecialty areas, usually lasting one to two years.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
