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Career Profile: Science Profile

Most of us do not take the time to consider how often we take everyday items for granted. Our cell phones, televisions, even the frozen meals we pop in the microwave for a quick lunch were all developed by scientists. When most people envision a scientist, stereotypes of a white lab coat, messy hair, glasses, isolated labs and socially inept individuals pop into mind; in reality it is quite the contrary.

Contemporary scientists work in under a variety of different conditions, either in a lab practicing experiments or in the field, depending on the type of science they research. For instance, biological scientists may work in a state of the art lab conducting research or directly in Antarctica studying glaciers and the environmental impact of civilization. Other scientists may work in chemical labs exploring chemical compounds to improve a consumer product or work with pharmaceutical companies to create new prescription drugs.

Career Tracks:

Scientists area of research and development depends on their interest and career ambitions. Typically they have the opportunity to work in the private and public sector, depending on their area of expertise. Biological scientists, for example, may work for a governmental agency like the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention where they explore new treatments to cure diseases. On the other hand, an agricultural scientist may work with a consumer-food company such as Heinz.

Required Skills & Credentials:

Typically any science-related career requires extensive education in their discipline and specialty, especially for those who work in academia or wish to work their way up the corporate ranks. Commonly, most scientists who work in either the public or private sector hold at least a Masters degree, with the majority possessing a PhD.

Outlook:

For current and aspiring scientists, future job growth looks modest. Overall, opportunities for scientist are expected to remain average over the next five years, with scientists such as hydrologists having the greatest growth and others like astronomers and chemists will see the job market tighten in their field.