How to Become a Scientist

Science is a vast sea of mystery and logic blended together. It can be found in anything from the science of space and numbers to the mysteries behind the microorganisms and the smallest things in our life. If you are looking to transform your scientific outlook of perceiving everything into a full-fledged career, you may encounter difficulties in narrowing down your interests and shaping them into the right discipline. In this blog, we will deal precisely with the varied disciplines of Science thus discovering the multifarious ways of how to become a Scientist.

How to Become a Scientist?

Science encompasses everything. It aims to apply logic and reasoning to everyday concepts. When you are searching for routes of how to become a scientist, make sure you are aware of your interests and motivated enough to build a career in them. In any case, scientific inquiry is a vast field and more often than not, it somehow touches everyone’s inclinations. There are a diverse set of disciplines on offer where you can apply your creativity and build a rewarding career.

Many interested students start making their way towards becoming a scientist from as early as the 10th standard. According to your interests, you can choose between Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics or Physics, Chemistry, and Biology in your 11th and 12th. You can even opt for both Mathematics and Biology. Pursuing graduation, you can choose to specialize your interests in a particular field of Science. Universities also offer students opportunities to undertake research projects and assignments under professors. Moreover, you can develop your research acumen by pursuing a specialized Master’s degree or Doctoral courses.

Also Read: Career in Science Stream

How to Become a Scientist after 12th?

The first step toward becoming a scientist is to enrol in courses. Students must complete 10+2 in physics, chemistry, and math from a recognized board with a minimum of 50% of marks. To begin, decide on a specialization in whatever field you want to work as a scientist and take classes in that discipline.

Following is a list of several UG, PG, and other courses that you can pursue after completing your 12th grade.

Also Read: Science vs Commerce: Which is Tougher?

Popular Courses for Scientists

Here are some of the most popular bachelor’s degree programs:

• B.Tech  (Bachelor of Technology) Mechanical Engineering
• B.Tech. (Bachelor of Technology) Robotics Engineering
• B.Tech. (Bachelor of Technology) Mechatronics Engineering
• B.Tech. (Bachelor of Technology) Manufacturing Technology
• B.Tech  (Bachelor of Technology) in Mathematics and Computing
• B.Tech (Bachelor of Technology) in Biomedical Engineering
• B.Tech (Bachelor of Technology) in Production Engineering
• B.Tech (Bachelor of Technology) in Computer Engineering
• B.Tech (Bachelor of Technology) in Chemical Engineering
• B.Tech (Bachelor of Technology) in Electrical Engineering
• B.Tech (Bachelor of Technology) in Biotechnology
• Bachelor of Science

After completing a bachelor’s degree program, students have the option of enrolling in a master’s degree program in a relevant specialization without interrupting their academic year, or they can begin working in the industry in an entry-level position. If he or she wants to, he or she can continue their study after gaining a few years of experience.

Here are some popular Master’s degree programs for scientists:

• M.Tech. (Master of Technology)
• M.Tech. (Master of Technology) Robotics Engineering
• M.Tech. (Master of Technology) Mechatronics Engineering
• M.Tech. (Master of Technology) Electrical Engineering
• M.Tech. (Master of Technology) Chemical Engineering
• M.E. (Master of Engineering) Robotics Engineering
• M.E. (Master of Engineering) Mechatronics Engineering
• M.Sc. (Master of Science)
• M.Sc. (Master of Science) Robotics
• M.Sc. (Master of Science) Mechatronics

Different Types of Scientists

Space Scientist

Space is a common thread of fascination among all of us. If you see yourself working in Space Research, the time couldn’t be more perfect. There are wide-ranging Space Science programs offered by the world’s top universities like Cornell University, Carnegie Mellon University, Tsinghua University, University of Edinburg, amongst others. Space Research is divided into different sub-fields like Cosmology, Astrochemistry, Forensic Astronomy, Space Physics, etc. You can choose to work with national space organizations like NASA or pursue further research into space theories and concepts by working for universities that are integrating research works in the field of Space Science.

Cancer Biologist

Finding cures for different kinds of cancers has become the question of the century. If Biology interests you, a career in Cancer Research might be a deserved choice. The study of cancer involves the analysis of cancer cells and assessing how the abnormal growth of such cells happen rapidly that they end up harming the human body. As a cancer biologist, you can choose to work with research organisations, government agencies or at universities. There are a variety of cancer diagnosis, treatment and research courses on offer widely in the UK, USA and Canada, amongst other countries.

Also Read: NEET– The First Step Towards Your Medical Dream

Cell Biologist

Another great option to explore in the field of Biological Science is Cell Biology. This involves the study of the cell structure of the human body, types of cells present, internal composition of a specific cell family and much more. It is a highly interesting and advanced field wherein students are encouraged to undertake individual research.

Also Read:

• Branches of Biology
• List of Top Microbiology Courses
• BSc Microbiology Syllabus

Genetics

A significant subfield of biological research, Genetics is where concepts like DNA, genes, genetic variation, chromosomes, etc are dealt with in unmatched detail. Although there are many undergraduate courses on offer, most students prefer to pursue a master’s degree or research program in Genetics after completing an undergraduate degree in Medicine. Career prospects are quite exciting in Genetics as it is a budding field of research.

Behavioural Scientist

Behavioural Science is a relatively modern concept. It deals with how the human mind makes decisions and whether it stands the test of logic or not. It blends Psychology, Economics, and Statistics together to assess the rationality and reasoning behind our everyday decisions. It has been applied to various fields like Finance, Gaming and Psychiatry.

Statistician

The study of Statistics incorporates the analysis of data, summarization of data and finding relevant patterns. Large data sets need to be interpreted and this task is carried out by a statistician. Topics of study include mean, variation, hypothesis, intermediate and extreme value etc. Studying Statistics, you can explore exciting career opportunities in the field of Engineering, Biology, Computer Science, amongst others.

Also Read: BSc Statistics

Mathematician

If you are fascinated by numbers, a career as a mathematician will surely be of your interest. Unlike everyday mathematical concepts, it involves working with extremely advanced topics like pure and abstract algebra, 3d geometry, real analysis which strive to break down the world of numbers. Mathematicians are required in an array of domains ranging from Space and Ocean research to Particle Physics experiments.

Apart from the above, the following are some other pathways that can explain your question of how to become a scientist:

• Neuroscientist
• Geologist
• Computer scientist
• Aeronautical Scientist
• Aeronautics
• Oceanographer
• Zoologist
• Zoology
• Botanist
• Botany
• Climate Change scientist

Also Read: Career in Environmental Studies

How to Become a Forensic Scientist?

1. Graduate from a high school – In order to set yourself up for success, aspiring forensic scientists should complete high school, ideally with high grades in biology, chemistry, physiology, statistics, and mathematics. Some students also volunteer or intern with relevant agencies such as police departments, fire departments, medical laboratories, hospitals, and other organizations.
2. Enroll in a forensic science program – Some associate degree programs are offered for aspiring forensic science technicians. A high school diploma and a competitive GPA are usually required for admission to two-year programs in this sector. These programs may include classes in criminal law, fire and arson investigation, and the physical sciences in addition to general education. A four-year degree can not only improve employment opportunities and earnings potential, but it can also lead to occupations in adjacent sectors, such as laboratory work.
3. Gain professional experience in medical and diagnostic laboratories, police departments, local governments, federal agencies, hospitals, and other settings – Many graduates of forensic science programs choose to gain professional experience in medical and diagnostic laboratories, police departments, local governments, federal agencies, hospitals, and other settings at this stage. This not only bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world application but also puts these professionals in a position to pursue national certification.
4. Professional certification may not be necessary for employment, but it can help a job candidate’s CV or income prospects. While the prerequisites for these certificates vary, they usually include a bachelor’s degree in a forensics-related discipline, proof of work experience, letter(s) of recommendation, payment of an application fee, and passing a test.

How to Become a Research Scientist?

• Obtain a bachelor’s degree – Aspiring research scientists should begin by earning a bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to their passion. A generic degree in clinical research can be a suitable option if you’re undecided. A degree in biochemistry, biology, pharmacology, or pre-med can help you explore medicine, chemistry, or biology. A degree in information technology is required if you want to work as a computer and information research scientist.
• Complete a master’s degree – Typically, these programs span two to three years. Your program’s coursework will differ depending on the degree you’re pursuing, but it should be relevant to the field you’re entering. However, there are a few issues that are universal in various fields:
  • Teaching skills
  • Writing for grants and research papers
  • Courses in advanced mathematics
  • Students will take public speaking classes to prepare them for presenting their research findings.
• Gain experience – Aspiring research scientists should work for one to two years before enrolling in a Ph.D. program to improve their chances of landing a job in the field. They could even take a year or two off from their master’s program and work as a research assistant to get experience before returning to school.
• Certifications – While licensure isn’t normally required for research scientists, certifications are available and can help you stand out from the competition. Certified Clinical Research Associate, Certified Principal Investigator, and ACRP Certified Professional are only a few of the credentials offered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP).
• Consider a Doctorate – After completing your master’s program, you should consider obtaining a doctorate if you want to work as a lead research scientist. Doctoral programs take four to five years to finish on average. During their time as a student, doctoral candidates must conduct original research, and their progress is monitored by school staff or an advisor. They must also defend their research through formal methods as part of the curriculum.

FAQs

We hope that this blog helped you comprehend the diverse routes integral to the process of how to become a scientist. A little bit of mentorship in this regard can go a long way in molding your career as a Scientist. Leverage Edu provides unique mentorship sessions with mentors who understand your interests and passion to guide you in selecting an ideal pathway to discover the immensely vast realm of Science.