scientist

The work

Scientists can work in a range of areas and job roles; some examples are listed below.  

Research and development
Scientists working in this field are involved in developing new products and industrial processes, improving efficiency, or carrying out laboratory experiments and converting them into large scale manufacturing operations.

Scientific analysis and investigation
This area of work can include:

• diagnosing, monitoring or treating disease or illness
• measuring levels of pollution or environmental damage
• looking at ways to increase environmental protection
• analysing samples as part of criminal investigations
• predicting the weather or environmental disasters
• discovering and extracting valuable natural resources such as oil or gas.

Education and the media
Some scientists teach their subject in school, college or university, others are involved in designing educational materials for use in broadcasting, schools and colleges or museums. Scientific journalists and publishers write in everyday language about complex scientific concepts.

Administration
Scientists work in government departments and non-governmental agencies, using their scientific understanding to inform and assist in formulating policies.

Scientists may also be involved in the biosciences and physical sciences.

Working in science can involve handling hazardous substances, or micro-organisms which cause infectious diseases. Some of the samples studied may be unpleasant, and the equipment used may be complex and expensive.

Some scientists will supervise the work of support staff and technicians, leading a team of scientists and other staff. There may be administrative tasks to carry out.

Hours and Environment

Scientists usually work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, although evening and weekend work is often required if involved with ongoing projects. Shifts, nights, or on-call work may be necessary if the job involves providing a round-the-clock service to the public, as in the NHS.

Practical scientists mainly work in laboratories but many are involved in fieldwork such as collecting samples, conservation work, monitoring environmental factors, or studying plants and animals in their natural habitat.

Much of the work in laboratories requires sterile conditions, and long periods could be spent sitting or standing at a bench or piece of equipment. Some form of protective clothing may be worn for protection and to prevent contamination of samples or equipment. Fieldwork may be physically demanding.

Skills and Interests

To be a scientist, you should:

• have an enquiring mind and be able to think clearly and logically
• be good at problem solving, with a methodical approach to your work
• be able to work accurately and pay great attention to detail
• be able to work in, and lead, a team of professionals
• have excellent verbal and written communication skills
• be able to write reports and present your work
• be able to keep up with advances in your field
• understand statistics and relevant computer packages, and be willing to do fieldwork.

Entry

To work as a scientist you are likely to need a degree, and possibly a postgraduate qualification, in an appropriate area such as biosciences, chemical sciences, environmental or physical sciences. Relevant work experience is increasingly important; this is especially true in environmental and conservation work. Experience can be gained through voluntary work.

The entry requirements for a degree are likely to include five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) in science subjects, English and maths, plus at least two A levels/three H grades, or equivalent. Many institutions offer a one-year foundation or bridging course for students who have not studied the appropriate science subjects at A level or equivalent.

An Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to certain courses. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

Training

Many employers will provide continuing on-the-job training in new experimental techniques and IT developments, which will enable you to keep up-to-date in your specialist area and keep abreast of health and safety regulations.

As a scientist you may be required, or choose, to study for postgraduate qualifications, a higher degree, or take exams for membership or fellowship of a professional body. Taking part in a professional development scheme for example, may assist your career development.

A number of professional bodies have been licensed by the Science Council to award Chartered Scientist (CSci) status to individual scientists who meet the high standard for the qualification. Member organisations include:

• Institute of Physics
• Royal Society of Chemistry
• Institute of Food Science and Technology
• Institute of Biomedical Science.

Chartered Scientists must apply for revalidation every five years. Check the Science Council website for details; see Further Information.

Scientists can work towards an NVQ/SVQ Level 4 in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities.

Opportunities

There are a large number of scientists working in the UK, although some jobs may be restricted to certain areas of the country or locations because of the nature of the work, for example, environmental or conservation work.

Relocation may be necessary for career progression.

Scientists can work for a wide range of employers. Large companies outsource both specialist and routine scientific work, and there is an increase in the number of ‘spinout’ companies from universities. These trends have resulted in more scientists working for small or medium-sized companies and more opportunity to become self-employed or to start their own company.

Supervisory and management responsibilities may be available to more experienced scientists, and some scientists may become more involved in the commercial aspects of the work of a company.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Generally pay is higher in the private sector, especially in high-tech areas. Large private companies are likely to pay more than smaller companies. Environmental and conservation work tends to be less well paid.

The starting salary for a scientist can be between £18,000 and £28,000 depending on specialist area. 
With around five years experience, a scientist can earn around £30,000.
At senior levels, a scientist can earn up to £60,000.

Further information

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Tel: 020 7611 8754

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