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Scientist
Scientists develop new information about the world around us, often with the aim of solving problems or improving aspects of modern life. In their investigations, scientists need a logical, systematic approach. They carefully design, monitor and analyse experiments to reach conclusions. They must also explain their findings clearly and concisely to others.
Work activities
Scientists design, plan and manage trials and investigations in pure and applied research. Examples of applied research are:
- Developing a new drug to treat a disease.
- Finding stronger and lighter materials to build aircraft with.
- Improving the colour and taste of foods.
- Developing alternative sources of energy such as wind and solar power.
The types of experiments and technology involved will vary depending on the area of research. However, all scientists need to ensure the accuracy of their results. They think carefully about the number of tests needed to reach an accurate conclusion, the sample size of the investigation, and any factors that might affect or distort their results. They often work with other scientists who have different specialist knowledge from their own.
Scientists are usually responsible for a team of technicians, who look after the day-to-day running of the laboratory. Scientists use a variety of methods to collect and analyse data, often including statistics. They analyse results and present findings in the form of models, graphs and charts. Scientists use computers to design and control experiments, create models and analyse results. During an investigation, scientists use traditional methods, for example, observing change with the naked eye, as well as very sophisticated technology, such as using an electron microscope to study micro-organisms. Research and development work can involve routine testing over a long period of time. For example, the process of developing a new drug might take over 10 years, from discovery and testing to becoming available for sale in a community pharmacy (chemist’s shop).
Scientists need to be able to explain their results clearly and concisely to others. Increasingly, scientists have to consider the environmental impact of their work, for example, trying to ensure that pollen from genetically modified crop trials doesn’t come into contact with crops from farms that are not involved in the trial. Some scientists are involved in analytical investigations rather than development work. For example, analytical scientists investigate substances to see which chemicals they contain. Their findings help others to ensure the safety and quality of food and drink, monitor and protect public safety and the environment, diagnose disease, and increase the efficiency and safety of manufacturing processes. As well as working in laboratories, many scientists travel to collect samples or to do experiments. This is called fieldwork. For example, geologists travel to map physical features, sometimes in remote areas.
Scientists use their knowledge of products and processes in marketing and sales departments. They might visit customers to listen to their needs and explain the latest developments. Other contacts will vary depending on the type of scientist. For example, a biomedical scientist might work with doctors, nurses and other health professionals, while an acoustician might be working with local authority employees to monitor and control stadium noise.
The three main areas of science are biology, physics and chemistry. However, these are inter-linked at different levels in the very many specialist areas. For example, biochemistry is the study of chemistry in living things. Laboratory and other scientific work is increasingly multi-disciplinary, involving teams made up of people with a variety of specialist knowledge.
Personal qualities and skills
To be a scientist, you’ll need:
- To enjoy solving problems.
- A logical approach to plan experiments.
- Practical skills.
- Imagination and creativity.
- To be methodical and well organised.
- Patience – you must not mind having to repeat experiments several times.
Scientists often work in teams, so communication skills are important. You must be able to express yourself clearly, both verbally and in writing. In contrast, some scientists also spend time on their own, especially during fieldwork. For example, geological scientists might travel on their own to map remote areas.
Pay and opportunities
Salaries for scientists vary, depending on the sector they work in and their role and responsibilities. However, a research scientist can expect to earn between £18,000 and £43,000. Higher salaries are available depending on employer, role and responsibilities.
Scientists usually work 39-41 hours a week, Monday to Friday. However, they might have early starts, late finishes, shifts and weekend work, especially as deadlines approach or where call-outs are necessary.
Scientists work in a wide range of jobs across all industries, including manufacturing, construction, engineering, pharmaceuticals, IT, colour technology, textiles, plastics, cosmetics, and food and drink. There are also opportunities in forensic science, the NHS, journalism, and in local and national government departments and agencies. Scientists teach in schools and colleges; they teach and carry out research in universities. Opportunities for scientists mainly occur in towns and cities, throughout the UK.
Where are vacancies advertised?
Vacancies are advertised in science magazines such as New Scientist (which also posts jobs on its website), on job boards, and in national/local newspapers.
Entry routes and training
Scientists usually need a degree relevant to the type of post they want to enter. Entry may also be possible with a relevant HND or foundation degree, although this is often into technician-level posts. Some universities offer courses with a foundation year. This is an extra year for students who don’t have the specified science A-levels for entry. Competition for research posts is often very strong, so a postgraduate qualification such as an MSc or PhD can be an advantage. Employers might ask for a postgraduate qualification for entry. They can be all but essential for some posts – for example, astronomers usually need a PhD.
Some employers give graduates the opportunity to study for a postgraduate or professional qualification while in employment.
You can now undertake various apprenticeships in science, which often lead to degrees. Programmes include a level 7 degree apprenticeship in the role of research scientist. Other examples include:
- Biomedical scientist (level 6)
- Laboratory scientist (level 6)
- Bioinformatics scientist (level 7)
- Clinical scientist (level 7)
You could progress in a number of ways. Experienced scientists can take on more responsibility, perhaps moving into a supervisory or management post. This could involve training other scientists or technicians. Depending on your area of work and qualifications, you might specialise in a particular area of research or development. Scientists can also move into areas like teaching, lecturing, journalism, marketing and sales (depending on the area of science).
Qualifications
For entry to a degree in a science subject, the usual minimum requirement is:
- Two to three A-levels, including at least one science subject.
- GCSEs at grades 9-4 in your A-level subjects.
- A further two to three GCSEs at grades 9-4, including English and maths.
You may also need A-level maths, often depending on the degree subject. For example, you’ll usually need A-level maths to do a physics degree. You should check prospectuses carefully to check which, and how many, science/maths subjects you need.
Alternative qualifications include:
- Edexcel (BTEC) level 3 Nationals.
- International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma.
However, course requirements vary, so please check prospectuses carefully.
Adult opportunities
Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.
If you don’t have the qualifications needed to enter a degree, foundation degree or HND course, you might be able to start one after completing an Access course, for example, Access to Science. You don’t usually need any qualifications to enter an Access course, although you should check this with the course provider. A foundation year before the start of a science degree or HND is available at some universities and higher education colleges for students who don’t have the science A-levels usually needed for entry to the course.
