There is a huge range of careers in the science and research industries.

You could become an astronomer, animal technician, spacecraft engineer, food technologist, patent attorney, computer games developer or technical brewer. To work in this sector you need to enjoy problem solving, have good attention to detail and enjoy science. People skills do matter in science. Don't think that all scientists are like Sheldon Cooper in the US TV series The Big Bang Theory!

Skills match quiz

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Employer case study

Actavis

"Our company makes biopharmaceutical medicines in dermatology and aesthetics; CNS; eye care; women's health and urology; GI and cystic fibrosis; and cardiovascular and infectious disease."

Future careers

  • Nanotechnology is a rapidly developing area. It involves developing useful applications on a very small scale.
  • Advances in nanotechnology could have an impact on everything around us, from consumer goods to transport. It could potentially solve the energy crisis and revolutionise medicine. This is a growth area in scientific research and will create many career opportunities in the future.
  • Other up-and-coming areas include renewable energy, alternative fuels and food and crops for the future.

Things to consider

  • Many jobs in science and research may require a degree, but apprenticeships and trainee schemes are available.
  • Some roles are office-based, some are in labs and some might be based outdoors.
  • Factories and oil rigs can be noisy places to work and you may need to work shifts.

Useful links

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Royal Society of Biology

Careers using biology

Royal Society of Chemistry

Careers using chemistry

Institute of Physics

Institute of Physics