Science

Science

Science is a cornerstone that is not only integral to the modern day economy, but is one that is essential for the advancement and progression of human civilization as a whole. It is a huge area covering many important areas and disciplines, ranging to everything from physics, mathematics, biology, and so much more…

Those who pursue a career in science will typically, at the minimum, need an advanced 4-year degree in an area such as physics, biology, chemistry, astronomy, ecology, geology, mathematics, to name but a few. Although there are some roles within the field that you may be able to enter with as little as a 2-year degree or other advanced certification, no matter what area of science interests you, the rewards are usually always worth it. Most industries within the sector are still growing, and with the global challenges faced around the world today with recent pandemics, the demands made for faster and faster rates of technological progress, and the ever-increasing rate of human expansion, science is a field needed now more than ever to combat these serious challenges so we can secure a prosperous future for the fate of mankind

Working in a science related industry, you can not only expect above average pay, but will also have much better job security than many other jobs currently offer in today’s economy too! This, combined with the prestige and sense of self-worth that will be yours by making a meaningful contribution to today’s scientific and technological landscape means that any career in a vocation of today’s scientific sector is one that is usually very worthwhile indeed

Science makes up a huge area of the modern-day economy. It’s for this reason that within today’s scientific landscape the duties you can expect to perform can vary drastically depending on the field and area of specialization in question. For instance, a physicist in a research role might be engaged in duties that involve the following:

Adhering to standard operating procedures during research projects
Preparing laboratory equipment and materials
Testing specific elements or components using a variety of tools and equipment

A physicist working in an applied sciences role might be involved in drastically different duties, such as:

Working in an R and D role (research and development) building components for products suitable for mass production
Developing safety protocols for the testing and implementation of new research procedures
Writing up progress reports and providing updates to upper management

A biologist working in a research role might be engaged in duties that involve the following:

Developing complex new biophysical assay methodologies to enhance existing research studies
Working with complex multistep assays and recording the results
Presenting research results at company science briefings

A biologist working in an applied sciences role might be engaged in duties that involve the following:

Using T cell receptor technology as a TCR platform to create regenerative medicines and enhancements to rejuvenate the human body
Managing the day-to-day running of a research and development project
Providing detailed reports to research and development managers

An ecologist working in a research role might be engaged in duties that involve the following:

Mapping the habitats of living organisms then recording the extent and condition of those habitats over time
Habitat classification and condition assessments
Promoting biodiversity and raising awareness of ecology through accurate reporting of ecological issues

This is just a small cross section of the types of duties you can expect to perform in some of the scientific roles that are currently practiced today

In science, just like in most other sectors, entry into some roles will be more competitive than others. The fields in science that have the widest reaching implications for society involve areas such as Biology, Chemistry, and Physics – these tend to be better funded, and will typically have more openings available, (and while there are more people applying for those roles), because there is more funding in those industries, it means there will usually be a higher job to applications ratio. Whereas in more specialised fields like the Natural sciences, Anthropology, Ecology, Palaeontology, and Oceanography, there is typically less funding available, therefore, finding jobs in these areas is usually more competitive within the scientific sector as a whole (although not necessarily when we compare these vocations against other industries of the economy as a whole)

Like many areas of the economy, applications for roles in science related fields are usually made directly online via a company’s website

Just like any other area of the economy too – standing out from the crowd can make all the difference. The good news though is that as an applicant, in this sector you have a ready made way to do to this. Because many roles in this sector start off at the graduate level, you’ll have the opportunity to give yourself a huge advantage and stand out from the competition by seeking out any internships and other work placement opportunities that might be available as you go through your studies

Internships are a great way to give yourself an advantage when it comes to applying for the jobs you want most. No matter what field you are studying towards, internships and other types of job placement schemes enable you to gain the firsthand experience you’ll need in that field ahead of the actual interview itself. Internship schemes in particular are very useful for this, and while they are most commonly found at the post graduate level, you can also find these and many other types of job placement schemes at the undergraduate level too – – that’s why it’s heavily advised that while your studies are still ongoing you take steps to seek out any opportunities that may be available using avenues like your student advice centre, alumni association, networking (with friends and family), and checking the websites of the various companies you might be interested in – this will give you the best possible chance of finding a great opportunity that’s right for you. For more on internships and other work placement schemes, see the internships, and other work placements section

What you can expect during the interview process
When it comes to this sector, the interview process is typically very thorough. It starts, like most jobs, with an initial full-length application. This is then usually followed with a telephone interview to screen the candidates whose applications have met the employer’s requirements. Those that pass from there will typically be invited for a more thorough assessment which will often include some form of psychometric testing. These tests will often focus on areas like critical thinking and error checking, alongside numerical, spatial, and verbal reasoning abilities. This will usually be done in conjunction with the actual interview itself, which will most times be conducted in either a standard or panel format (depending on the type of research or role in question). Those candidates who are successful after this stage will then go on to complete the final pre-employment checks following the extension of a formal job offer

Working in the field of science today gives you an amazing opportunity to impact the scientific landscape and make a meaningful contribution towards the advancement and progression of modern-day civilization. Over the last century alone, there have been 100s of revolutionary discoveries throughout the multitudes of different scientific fields and disciplines that exist, as well as tens of thousands of lesser, but still highly important ones. Some of these include things like:

Genome editing, RNA-sequencing, cloning, antibiotics such as penicillin, vitamins, painkillers and anaesthetics, x-rays, MRIs, the Internet, Artificial Intelligence, the definition of scientific units and the classification of matter, discoveries in dark matter, antimatter, nuclear fission, semiconductors, new and more powerful microscopes and telescopes, the discovery of new orbits and extrasolar planets, the inception of the theory of relativity, electricity, lasers, GPS, concrete, industrial automated machinery, unmanned aerial vehicles and robots…and this list only represents a tiny cross section of the total number of discoveries made in the last century alone

Roles in science.
There are many different roles within the scientific landscape today where you can make a difference – some of the main ones are listed below

Agronomist – Works to optimize crop production through use of soil management and other techniques that increase crop yields and quality. Will perform duties such as soil analysis, (including the evaluation of soil quality and nutrient content), crop selection and rotation, pest and disease management, irrigation, and water management. Also performs research involving crop varieties and soil management techniques, along with data analysis. Performs all duties with a view toward sustainability
Salary £33,217 – £61,239 depending on employer and years of experience

Animal technician – Cares for animal needs and for the wellbeing of animals in a clinical environment. Duties include ensuring food, water, living conditions, and sanitation requirements are met. Monitors health, keeps records, and performs research support functions. These functions may include animal procurement, handling, and training, as well as observing any relevant safety and ethical concerns
Salary £28, 218 – £34,300 depending on employer and years of experience

Biochemist – Performs a wide range of functions and research concerning biological processes at both the basic and applied levels. Works with viruses, bacteria, compounds, and cells, to understand biological processes, treat illnesses, and create new biological treatments. Analyses data and derives conclusions from data sets. Writes reports and provides regular progress updates.
Salary £38,074 – £72,200 depending on employer and years of experience

Biologist – Studies living organisms and their interactions with the environment. Investigates their diversity, structure, function, growth, and evolution. Uses observation, experimentation, and data analysis to interpret and draw conclusions from collected data. Uses microscopy techniques to analyse samples. Uses biotechnical applications to create biotechnological products.
Salary £34,655 – £110,000 depending on employer and years of experience

Bio-engineer – Performs research and developmental activities. Designs and helps produce products and biomedical technologies that are applied in areas such as Biological Signal Processing, Drug Delivery Systems, Medical Device Design, Medical Imaging, and Tissue Engineering.
Salary £34,285 – £72,091 depending on employer and years of experience

Biomedical scientist – Duties may include medical diagnosis and the development of new treatments and therapies.
Will also perform research, sample analysis, genetic analysis, and clinical testing. Will contribute to the development of improved diagnostic techniques, create treatments and vaccines, and observe all appropriate regulatory compliance.
Salary £39,478 – £56,377 depending on employer and years of experience

Biotechnologist – Applies different scientific disciplines such as biology, chemistry, and genetics, conducting both basic and applied research in the pursuit of effective genetic modification. This is done with a view to developing biotechnological products that can enhance both agricultural produce and living organisms from the baseline level.
Salary £33,214 – £59,621, depending on employer and years of experience

Chemical engineer – Is responsible for designing and constructing manufacturing systems capable of producing chemical products on an industrial scale. May perform duties in a research and developmental capacity. May perform duties in a manufacturing capacity. Performs quality control duties. Some roles may also require the operation of a chemical production apparatus.
Salary £32,600 – £73,192, depending on employer and years of experience

Chemical engineering technician – Assists with the design, implementation, and installation of equipment needed for chemical production. Operates, calibrates, and maintains instruments and equipment. Records data. Performs quality control duties. Assists with the compilation of effective safety operating procedures. Assists with research and development related to functions that help create new and more efficient products and processes. Works with software to transform models and blueprints into functional components and chemical products.
Salary £18,107 – £44,723, depending on employer and years of experience

Chemist – Conducts laboratory tests, research and development activities, and analysis work in the form of materials science investigations on different types of materials such as ceramics, metals, plastics, polymers, medicines, paints, dyes, fertilizers, foodstuffs, cosmetics, etc. Writes reports and maintains accurate records. Performs quality control work and assesses the environmental impact of chemical products and compounds and their waste byproducts on the environment.
Salary £28,312 – £59.664, depending on employer and years of experience

Consumer Scientist – Studies consumer behaviour and preferences to better understand consumer habits, as well as their affinity for given products and services. Conducts consumer research in the form of surveys and market analysis, and will use these along with other methods to assist with product development, advertising, and consumer advocacy.
Salary £24,338 – ££36,771, depending on employer and years of experience

Ecologist – Studies plants, animals, and other living organisms within their natural environments. Seeks to understand the interactions between organisms and their environments and investigates the impact of external forces (such as industrial activity) on these ecosystems. Will conduct field research and write up reports.
Salary £29,917 – £43,102, depending on employer and years of experience

Food scientist – Evaluates food samples for their nutritional value. Tests food for harmful substances like moulds and bacteria. Helps set safety and quality control standards. Researches more efficient food production methods, working alongside other specialists like microbiologists, packaging specialists, and food suppliers.
Salary £26,308 – £47,228, depending on employer and years of experience

Food technologist – Refines and enhances existing food manufacturing processes with a view to not only making them efficient, but to making them safer too. Does research on consumer trends and buying habits with a view to devising new food products. Trail tests new foodstuffs. Liaises with food inspection officials. Selects cost effective ingredients and helps design the packaging and processes (including the machinery) required for that type of food production. Works with and builds relationships with suppliers. Works with those in other areas such as procurement and sales, to ensure the viability and profitability of the end product. Advises on food production methods.
Salary £25,107 – £51,310, depending on employer and years of experience

Forensic scientist – Uses various methods to identify evidence at crime scenes such as toxicology, biology, and chemistry related techniques. Duties will include testing for things like fingerprints, shoe prints, tyre marks, and identifying other types of residue or fragments. Performs testing of various samples such as blood, urine, salvia, and analyses things like equipment, objects, and materials to look for potential sources of evidence. Recovers evidence from electronic equipment. Writes up reports, interprets data, and attends court to give evidence.
Salary £41, 298 – £81,726, depending on employer and years of experience

Geneticist – Performs a wide variety of roles based on their area of specialization. Writes up reports and analyses data. Works with specialised laboratory equipment and compounds. Researches and studies DNA to seek out the underlying causes and markers that identify the genetic makeup and characteristics (both helpful and detrimental) in living organisms. Modifies and edits genetic material to enhance characteristics in living organisms. This includes studying and performing genetic research on humans, animals, plants, and other microorganisms for basic research purposes. Tries to find cures to illnesses and genetic disorders in humans and animals. Performs genetic engineering that increases yields in crops and enhances human and animal traits past the baseline. Creates other miraculous biomedical products and technologies through the practice of genetic engineering.
Salary £45,700 – £98,128, depending on employer and years of experience

Geologist – Studies phenomena related to earth related features. Studies disaster related phenomena like earthquakes. Investigates different facets about earth’s geology including rocks, minerals, landforms, and the forces that have shaped its surface over time. Will perform a wide range of duties including fieldwork, research, and data analysis in areas such as geological mapping, geomorphology, hydrogeology, mineralogy, petrology, stratigraphy, sedimentology, and volcanology.
Salary £26,774 – £51,480, depending on employer and years of experience

Geoscientist – Studies earth related materials and the impact of human industry on the environment.
Studies a variety of materials and substances found in the earth such as soil, minerals, and fossils, as well as fresh and ocean water resources. Uses geographical modelling techniques that depict and try to determine future geographical events and climate patterns through the analysis of samples like ice cores, sediment layers, and fossils. Uses a variety of techniques that include geophysical surveys, hydrogeology, and field research to gather data and perform different types of analyses. Assesses the likelihood of mineral deposits and other natural resources existing along with the viability of obtaining them. Assesses soil and rock properties to determine the viability of construction and engineering projects. Uses data to determine the likelihood of natural disasters occurring such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis, as well as other natural hazards, and advises on preventive measures to help safeguard population bases and mitigate these risks.
Salary £44,284 – £70,848 depending on employer and years of experience

Healthcare scientist – Performs research and development, quality control, and other laboratory duties. May perform specialized work in areas including clinical biochemistry, histopathology, microbiology, genetics, etc. May perform patient consultation, training, and educational related functions.
Salary £46,390 – £57, 214, depending on employer and years of experience

Hydrologist – Is responsible for water conversation and water management sustainability. Studies various aspects related to water management including oceans and freshwater, rainfall, and perception. Measures water quality, quantity, and the distribution of water over a given region. On top of advising on water policy and regulation, also assesses the environmental impact of industrial activity on water quality and water systems.
Duties include water resource assessments, field investigations, hydrological modelling, flood risk assessments, watershed analysis, groundwater studies, water quality monitoring, and environmental impact assessments.
Salary £33,830 – £46,119, depending on employer and years of experience

Laboratory Technician – Prepares cultures and specimens, analyses samples and records test results. Writes reports and keeps accurate records. Is also responsible for checking and ordering test supplies, and for keeping lab equipment clean and sterile.
Salary £26,348 – £55,020, depending on employer and years of experience

Materials scientist – Researches materials and finds ways to apply their properties in various industrial and technological processes. Is responsible both for creating new materials and finding ways to enhance existing ones. Uses scientific methods such as chemistry, biology, physics, and engineering principles to design and create materials with specific characteristics.
Salary £39,632 – £47,991, depending on employer and years of experience

Materials technician – Supports materials engineers and materials scientists. Assists with the development and enhancement of existing materials, as well as with the creation of new ones. Duties include materials testing, sample preparation, data analysis, quality control, material characterization, and instrument operation.
Salary £25,573 – £38,993, depending on employer and years of experience

Mathematician – Works with numbers and equations, as well as with spatial and constructive concepts. Writes mathematical theory. Works with researchers and professionals from other disciplines. Publishes research papers and articles. Teaches mathematics.
Salary £30,573 – £64,882, depending on employer and years of experience

Meteorologist – Weather scientist (also referred to as a weather forecaster) specializes in the study of the Earth’s atmosphere. Works to understand and accurately forecast atmospheric phenomena and weather conditions. Duties include data collection from places like weather stations, satellites, and weather balloons. Analyses atmospheric data such as temperature, humidity, air pressure, and wind patterns, accurately forecasting short and long-term weather conditions. Uses computer modelling to simulate weather patterns, monitors weather-related hazards, and conducts climate research on long-term climate patterns and climate changes. Also performs air quality monitoring, and updates the public on severe weather warnings, providing accurate forecasting of weather conditions through media outlets.
Salary £38,583 – £52,488, depending on employer and years of experience

Microbiologist – Studies organisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and algae.
Studies the biology of microorganisms to determine their growth, metabolism, and reproduction.
Classifies and identifies microorganisms based on their characteristics and genetic relationships.
Uses microbiological research to make advancements in environmental science, medicine, and agriculture. Studies the structure, function, and behaviour of microorganisms. Studies the environments in which microorganisms exist such as air, water, and soil. Performs pathogen identification. Studies infectious diseases, and uses microbiology for various industrial purposes such as fermentation, bioremediation, and biotechnology. Performs further functions in fields such as virology, microbial genetics, and bioinformatics. Advises the government and other institutions on health and public safety.
Salary £37,593 – £55,317, depending on employer and years of experience

Nanotechnologist – Works with technology on the nanoscale, this includes nanoparticles, nanocomposites, and nanowires. Designs and develops materials on the nanoscale. Uses methods such as electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy to analyse nanoscale structure. Performs device and nanoscale fabrication of systems, materials, and components. Develops nanomedicines, and carries out research and development related to duties in the field of nanotechnology.
Salary £38,578 – £68,119, depending on employer and years of experience

Nuclear engineer – Ensures the safe and efficient running of nuclear power stations, reactors, and other nuclear powered equipment. Operates on, and maintains, nuclear systems. Performs research and development related activities. Is involved with the development of new reactor and power plant designs. Is involved with the development of newer, more effective, safety protocols. Performs duties concerned with the release of nuclear energy and the disposal of nuclear waste. Ensures Nuclear Regulatory Compliance is correctly observed.
Salary £33,772 – £89,004, depending on employer and years of experience

Nuclear physicist – Studies and researches the particles and atomic nuclei involved with nuclear reactions and seeks to apply the principles from these findings in the areas of science and industry. Works with and helps design specialised equipment such as particle accelerators and colliders to study complex nuclear processes. May work in an academic capacity to educate others in the field of nuclear physics
Salary £32,774 – £77,403, depending on employer and years of experience

Oceanographer – Conducts investigations and research into the earth’s oceans and other large bodies of water, studying its elements and compounds. Conducts field tests and writes reports. Uses advanced marine technology such as sensors and underwater vehicles, and also develops other specialised equipment for data collection. Researches things such as currents, ecosystems, and marine geology (such as underwater mountain ranges, volcanic activity, and sediment deposits), as well as marine life, temperature variations, and the impact of industrial activity on marine environments. May also conduct paleoceanographic research, (using fossil and sediment remains to reconstruct past ocean environments), and will work with advanced software programs to simulate oceanic processes and climates.
Salary £33,690 – £58,431, depending on employer and years of experience

Palaeontologist – Studies fossilised remains. Conducts delicate fieldwork, performs taxonomy duties involving the classification and categorization of fossilized remains. Studies the geological layers and rock formations that contain fossils to determine their age. Performs data analysis and data interpretation at dig sites to determine the makeup of past ecosystems, species dispersal, morphology, and species interactions. Performs evolutionary analysis using pre-existing data. Investigates microscopic pollens, soils, and other particulates taken from the field to be studied in a laboratory environment.
Salary £28,575 – £43,826, depending on employer and years of experience

Particle physicist – Studies and researches particles. Designs and tests equipment specialised for use in particle detection. Works with specialised equipment like particle accelerators. Investigates other areas concerning particles such as astro particle physics (with a view to exploring things like cosmic radiation and the creation of the universe). Performs research and development related activities. Produces academic material and may work in an academic capacity to educate others in the field of particle physics.
Salary £34,096 – £79,263, depending on employer and years of experience

Pharmacologist – Investigates cells and biological systems in humans and animals to study the effects of drugs and chemical compounds on them. Develops and studies existing pharmaceutical compounds and creates new ones. Conducts research with a view to developing new drugs, researches drug safety, toxicology, and pharmacogenetics. Is responsible for co-ordinating clinical trials.
Salary £34,693 – £67.800, depending on employer and years of experience

Physicist – Performs a wide range of functions involving experimentation with particles and other forces as defined by physics, both as regards research and development and basic experimental research. Depending on the area of specialization, the duties they perform may include the following:
Studying and researching the motion of objects and the forces that act upon them, experimenting with and finding practical applications for quantum mechanics, studying particles and other elements related to astrophysics, researching nuclear physics – (including the study of the nucleus and atomic interactions, as well as that of radioactive particles). Duties may also involve the study of different particles to determine their interactions with other particles and forces, as well as examining the properties and behaviour of matter in its solid or liquid states. Will work with sophisticated equipment like particle accelerators, and will conduct experiments and devise practical applications for this technology in areas like thermodynamics, electromagnetism, optics, and biophysics.
Salary £37,577 – £120,000, depending on the employer and years of experience

Robotics engineer – Designs, builds, and maintains robotic machinery and equipment. Uses computers and software systems to design robotic models. Programs robotic software, (including artificial intelligence) and maintains its related hardware components. Tests and troubleshoots systems. Ensures that robotic systems comply with safety regulations.
Salary £43,794 – £66,332, depending on employer, and years of experience

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