Works in exploration or research in an area such as biology, chemistry, or physics, that deals with the objects, phenomena, or laws of nature and the physical world.
Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos & Interviews
Caitriona Jackman, Planetary Scientist
Caitriona Jackman went to secondary school at Crescent College Comprehensive in Limerick. From there, she did a degree in Applied Physics at the University of Limerick. During that time she did a 9-month co-op placement at the Mullard Space Science Laboratory in Surrey. After graduation she moved to the University of Leicester to do a PhD in Planetary Science. She is now working as a postdoctoral researcher at Imperial College London.
Videos on the Web
- Scientist- from: Youtube Search
- Biomedical Scientist- from: icould [UK] Video
- Clinical Scientist- from: icould [UK] Video
- Clinician- from: iCould [UK] Video
- Environmental Scientist- from: icould [UK] Video
- Formulation Scientist- from: icould [UK] Video
- Senior Scientist- from: icould [UK] Video
- Senior Scientist- from: iCould [UK] Video
Working Life
Scientists find out how things work, often with the aim of solving problems. Experiments and a systematic, logical approach are very important to their investigations. Scientists analyse, measure and observe living things, chemicals, and the physical workings of the Earth and universe.
The three main areas of science are biology, physics and chemistry, but these are inter-linked at many different levels. For example, biochemistry is the study of chemicals in organisms.
Scientists work on research and development projects. Pure (or fundamental) research is the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, and is done mostly in universities, commercial or government organisations.
Applied research is aimed at solving a specific problem. For example: scientists develop new drugs to treat disease; find stronger and lighter materials to make aircraft with; develop vegetarian substitutes for meat; and find ways to try and improve crop yields.
Scientists help provide us with energy and materials for everyday life. They find natural resources like metals, minerals, oil, gas and coal, and develop materials like plastics, glass and textiles. They work with engineers to extract or produce these materials.
Increasingly, scientists are concerned with the impact of human activities on the environment. They may work to protect the environment from pollution, intensive farming, road building schemes, or the sprawl of cities into the countryside. Scientists research and develop alternative sources of energy, for example, from the sun, tides, wind, or heat stored below the Earth's surface.
As well as working in laboratories many scientists travel to collect samples and data. For example, forensic scientists visit crime scenes, and provide evidence in court. And geologists map physical features in remote areas.
Scientist's knowledge of products and processes is used in marketing and sales departments, and scientists may visit customers to listen to their needs or explain the latest developments.
Further Information
- Biomedical Scientist- from: N.C.S. [UK]
- Biomedical scientist- from: GradIreland
- Clinical Scientist- from: N.C.S. [UK]
- Information Scientist- from: N.C.S. [UK]
- Marine scientist- from: GradIreland
- Scientist, industrial R&D- from: GradIreland
- Scientist, quality control- from: GradIreland
- Scientist, research- from: GradIreland
Qualities - Scientist
As a scientist, you must enjoy solving problems. To plan experiments, you need practical skills, but you must also be imaginative and creative. Research and development work can involve routine testing over a long period of time. For example, the process of developing a new drug often takes over ten years, from discovery and testing to commercial availability. You will need to be methodical, well organised and patient, and not mind having to repeat an experiment several times.
Some scientists spend a lot of time on their own, especially during fieldwork. For example, geological scientists map remote areas, and must be prepared to work in difficult terrain.
Scientists often work in teams, so good communication skills are important. You must be able to express your findings clearly, both verbally and in writing.
Interests - Scientist
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Entry / Progression - Scientist
Scientists need a good grounding in mathematics. Those in the physical sciences use a great deal of mathematics, particularly algebra, calculus and analytical geometry. Those in the biological sciences will use maths less often. Scientists also need a working knowledge of statistics.
Scientists need a relevant primary degree. Basic courses in biology, chemistry and physics to gain knowledge of the basics of each science, as well as scientific methods such as observing, making hypotheses and experimenting.
Elective courses can be chosen based on your particular areas of interest or to discover new areas of interest - exploring these will help with choosing your specialty area later on - planetary science; medical science; psychological sciences; genetics; agricultural science - there are many routes to choose from.
Some commercial and industrial employers will accept graduates with a Bachelor's degree, but most scientists have at least a master's and more likely a doctorate.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: quality management, life sciences, manufacturing operations, manufacturing technician, pharmaceutical manufacturing, laboratory assistant, engineering technology.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: applied laboratory science, applied science, forensics, laboratory techniques, pharmacy studies, engineering technology, biotechnology.
Search for PLC Courses
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Lab Tech, Lab Analyst.
Search for Apprenticeships
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: biology, chemistry, physics.
Search for CAO Courses
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Example search terms include: science.
There are many options at Masters and Doctoral level in Science to develop your skills, knowledge, research and employment options.
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - Scientist
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €35k - €75k
Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.
Data Source(s):
CPL / Morgan McKinley/ Sigmar/ Brightwater/ Indeed/ Glassdoor
Last Updated: August, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Scientist
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Chemical scientists; Biological scientists; Biochemists; Physical scientists; Social and humanities scientists; Natural and social science professionals n.e.c.; Conservation professionals; Environment professionals; Research and development managers.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).
The annual employment growth rate over the five-year period was above average for this occupation, with employment increasing by almost 2,000 persons between 2021 and 2022. Almost a third of employment was in industry with the remainder spread across many sectors. The number of new employment permits issued grew from 164 to 506 between 2021 and 2022, with two fifths of permits issued for roles in the manufacturing of chemicals/pharma sub-sector for scientists and analysts (e.g. quality control, chemists); other roles include medical scientists/technologists, microbiologists, process development and R&D scientists.
In June 2022, medical scientists were moved to the Critical Skills Employment Permit List due to issues with sourcing suitable candidates; in Summer 2023, the Government announced plans to expand the number of training places for medical scientists by 20 places. The Recruitment Agency Survey identified difficult-to-fill vacancy mentions for analytical and process scientists. Online job adverts for this occupation grew slightly in 2022, almost all related to posts for R&D managers.
This was the most frequently occurring occupation in online job adverts in 2022. With employment levels increasing and demand still evident, shortages are expected to persist for this occupation, particularly in the chemical/pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, for those with experience and/or in niche areas. The recent decline in the value of pharmaceutical exports in Ireland is unlikely to have a significant impact on the demand for skills as, in addition to being in strong demand in the pharma & biopharma processing industry, they are much sought after elsewhere in both the life sciences sector (e.g. medical devices) and other manufacturing (e.g. food & beverage); in addition, Government focus (and investment) on research and innovation will also sustain the already strong demand for these skills. Shortages of analytical, process and medical scientists are likely to continue.
Useful Contacts - Scientist
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European Space Education Resource Office Ireland (ESERO)
- Discover Science & Engineering, Wilton Park House, Wilton Place, Dublin, 2
- (01) 607 3200
- [email protected]
- Click Here
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Science Foundation Ireland
