what is a scientist?
Scientists systematically gather and use research and evidence to make hypotheses and test them to gain an understanding and knowledge for the greater good. A scientist may also use statistics or data to further evidence their hypotheses.
As a scientist, you can work in any science-related field, from astronomy over food science to microbiology and animal science. That means you may find a job in companies dealing with research projects or work in hospitals and government institutions to conduct research and expand knowledge in a particular area.
what does a scientist do?
The central role of a scientist is to explain the natural world using scientific methods. As a scientist, you make observations and conduct experiments to test them. If the results aren't consistent with your hypothesis, you draw the appropriate conclusion or present a new idea. A scientist must apply a systematic process when conducting experiments.
Due to the massive variety of scientific roles, your employers will depend on your field of study. If you are a botanist or zoologist, you spend days in the forest cataloging plants or animals, while an astronomer spends time in observatories and labs.
find jobsaverage salary of a scientist
The median salary of a scientist is $77,000 per year. The remuneration package usually depends on the area of specialisation and experience level. An entry-level scientist with minimal skills takes home around $70,000 annually. However, if you perform complex duties and have many years of experience in the role, your salary increases to $106,000 per year.
Most employers cater for expenses and provide car allowances for travel to and from the research facility. Some provide housing allowances and pay for overtime work. You also receive medical and life insurance payments from your employer.
what factors affect the salary of scientists?
The main determinant of a scientist's salary is the area of specialisation. Some science disciplines are complex and command a higher pay structure. For instance, when you are a medical research scientist, your field is susceptible and requires more accuracy and certainty since your findings can influence human life. Your education and skill level also impact your salary. If you have an undergraduate degree, you cannot earn the same as someone with a PhD in the same field. The level of experience also dictates your remuneration package.
types of scientists
A career as a scientist allows you to explore multiple areas of expertise. Some of the types of scientists include:
- botanist: some scientists focus on plants and study their chemical properties and correlation with other species. As a plant scientist, you research soil erosion, chemical properties or plant medicine. All your studies are aimed at revealing the relationship between plants and animals.
- physicist: as a scientist, you can focus on exploring energy, matter and other aspects of physics. Physicists often explore theoretical aspects or conduct experiments to explain physical phenomena.
- medical scientist: as a medical scientist, you can specialise in microbiology or immunology to assist in diagnosing, preventing and treating diseases. You conduct tests and experiments to determine the effectiveness of some drugs or treatment procedures in fighting bacteria.
- computer scientist: as a computer scientist, you test and develop various properties of computer-based systems. You also develop software and computer applications and ensure they perform the expected functions.
- food scientist: as a food scientist, you work in the food processing industry. Food scientists use their knowledge to improve the processing, canning, freezing, storing, packaging, and distributing of food. Most food scientists work in the research and development departments of food processing companies.
- biologist: as a biologist, you focus on living things and their interactions in the ecosystem. Biologists can be ecologists, geneticists or marine biol
working as a scientist
As a scientist, you perform laboratory tests and conduct field research to discover the underlying cause of a particular problem. Let's explore the specific duties and responsibilities of a scientist.
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scientist job description
Specific duties depend on your employer, but you can expect the following tasks:
- planning and conducting experiments: as a scientist, you spend most of your work hours planning for experiments and formulating hypotheses. Part of the planning duties involves acquiring specimens and test subjects necessary for the study. If your area of specialisation involves laboratory experiments, you conduct the tests.
- recording and analysing data: at every project stage, you need to document the steps and record your findings. Writing a report detailing your objectives, findings, and conclusions is crucial. The journals form a reference and can help you improve future research projects.
- supervising other researchers: scientists are often lead researchers. You will guide your team members on the research steps, collecting samples and recording findings. You also offer advice on the format of presenting the results and writing reports.
- carrying out fieldwork: as a scientist you will also have to observe and collect data about people, environments and cultures. Field work is conducted in your everyday surroundings instead of in controlled environments like labs or classrooms.
- administrative tasks: as the lead scientist, you assign duties, create schedules and accomplish other administrative tasks. Sometimes, you apply for grants and prepare financial records for research projects.
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work environment
As a scientist, your work environment varies depending on your specialism. Some scientists spend days collecting samples or studying animals and plants in a forest. After collecting samples, you spend time in the laboratory testing and looking for conclusions. Laboratories often house various chemical components, live specimens and machines. Therefore, you need protective equipment and to observe lab rules to avoid accidents. As well as lab work, scientists also do administrative tasks in an office environment.
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who are your colleagues?
Depending on your employer and the industry you work in, your colleagues might include research scientists, botanists and zoologists. You might also be working close to research assistants and microbiologists, as well as other specialists that could consist of, but not be limited to, lab technicians, medical research scientists and data analysts.
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work schedule
Depending on the project, scientists often work between 35 and 40 hours a week. You are likely to work a 9 to 5 full-time schedule, but part-time opportunities are also available. Some scientists work on a contractual basis to accomplish a project and move on to the next. You also work evenings or weekends to complete experiments. Most employers offer flexible working environments despite the long working hours. As a scientist, you often travel to collect specimens or interview experts when conducting research.
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job outlook
A career as a scientist provides exciting prospects and opportunities for growth. The diverse roles increase your chances of branching out to other fields of study without additional training. For instance, you can become a researcher and work up to senior researcher positions and managerial roles. Alternatively, you can become a consultant in your field of study. For instance, botanists and zoologists make great consultants on plants and animal issues. Alternatively, become a lecturer on a science-related course.
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advantages of finding a scientist job through randstad
Finding your scientist job through Randstad provides essential benefits such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a scientist is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent career. Thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers every year thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too.
education and skills
Some of the routes to becoming a scientist include:
- getting a bachelor's degree: to become a scientist, you need to complete a bachelor's degree in science or your preferred field of study. You can pursue a generalist degree or complete a qualification in specialised subjects like medical laboratory science or biomedical science. During the degree, you gain practical experience working in laboratories, and you can complete work placements in recognised laboratories after the course.
- choosing your specialisation: if you complete a science degree course, you have to specialise in your final year. If you choose a broader field like medical science, you can specialise further.
skills and competencies
As a scientist, you require the following qualities:
- analytical skills: as a scientist, you spend a majority of your time examining evidence and conducting experiments to come up with explanations for different results. Having the analytical skills to work accurately and make logical observations is critical. You can use your analytical skills to identify issues and develop solutions.
- time management skills: you must organise your work efficiently in the field or lab. Time management skills help you prioritise important tasks and complete your job effectively under pressure.
- writing skills: you must have strong written communication skills since your role involves writing detailed scientific papers or submitting reports. Sometimes, you must present to other professionals at conferences, so communication skills are beneficial.
- teamwork skills: as a scientist, you can work alone on a project or collaborate with other scientists on research. You need people skills to work well with research colleagues and share ideas.
FAQs about working as a scientist
Here are the most asked questions about working as a scientist:
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what exactly does a scientist do?
A scientist uses research and evidence to make a hypothesis and systematically gathers data to test, confirm or dispute theories. They also gain and share knowledge of a particular subject by writing reports or journal articles based on their findings.
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how much does a scientist make in New Zealand?
A scientist in New Zealand makes an average salary of $77,000 per year. The remuneration package depends on the experience levels, qualifications or the area of specialisation. For instance, medical scientists earn more than materials or research scientists due to the complexity of the role.
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what types of jobs does a scientist do?
As a scientist, you work in various fields of interest, from anthropology to botany or zoology. Depending on your area of specialisation, you can also become a research scientist or a medical scientist. You conduct tests and experiments to explain specific phenomena as a research scientist.
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how do I apply for a scientist vacancy?
Applying for a scientist job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here.
