How to Become a Scientist in India?

Becoming a Scientist is the dream of every student who is passionate about the field of Science. Reaching that goal is a pinnacle of the science field is it in Biology, Physics, Chemistry, or Maths. Scientists get to work at some of the most estimated institutes including ISRO and NASA. If you also have that dream, this blog is just for you! So, let’s go on to read How to Become a Scientist in India?

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Who is a Scientist?

A scientist is a professional who researches to advance knowledge in an area of the natural sciences. There are different types of Scientists in various fields. Each type of scientist requires set of qualifications and skills.

Types of Scientists

Science-related knowledge and skills are necessary for a wide range of vocations and careers, from research to industry to regulation to teaching.

1. Business Scientist: The Business Scientist supports evidence-based decision-making within businesses and other enterprises by supporting strong management and business abilities with scientific understanding. This kind of scientist is confident in a corporate setting and possesses the scientific and technical expertise necessary to be credible with both coworkers and rivals. They can be found in a wide range of positions in scientific and technology firms, from R&D to marketing to the C-suite itself.
2. Communicator Scientist: The Communicator Scientist blends communication skills with knowledge of science and technology. Through empathy and a grasp of the audience’s requirements, knowledge of how media and other communication channels function, and, of course, a thorough understanding of the science involved, they inspire, inform, and effectively communicate their message.
3. Developer Scientist: The developer scientist, also known as a translational scientist, turns previously unusable knowledge into something that society can benefit from. They might be creating new goods or services, concepts that alter behaviour, advancements in medical treatment and medication, or the use of current technology in novel contexts.
4. Entrepreneur Scientist: Innovation is produced by the entrepreneur scientist. Their contacts and scientific understanding go far enough to enable them to recognise chances for innovation not just in the private sector but also in the public sector and other facets of society. They build their enterprises or work to expand established ones by fusing their expertise in science with great commercial and financial acumen, people-management abilities, and entrepreneurial spirit.
5. Explorer Scientist: Like the crew of the Enterprise, the Explorer Scientist is on a voyage of exploration “to boldly explore where no one has gone before.” They rarely concentrate on a particular result or effect; instead, they seek to learn the next piece of the puzzle of scientific knowledge and understanding. They are more likely to be seen working alone in a research facility, university, or company’s Research & Development (R&D).
6. Investigator Scientist: The Investigator Scientist explores the uncharted by observing, outlining, comprehending, and putting together in-depth knowledge and data, laying the groundwork for subsequent interpreters and developers. They are most likely to be found working as a team in a multidisciplinary setting at a university or research facility, or in research and development (R&D) at an organisation.
7. Policy Scientist: To make sure that law and policy have a solid evidence base, the policy scientist employs their expertise in science, technology, and government and policy making. Some policy scientists identify as a combination of 75% scientists and 25% politicians. This kind of scientist is employed and active in a variety of settings, including government and parliament, NGOs, advocacy organisations, and charities.
8. Technician Scientist: The Technician Scientist offers a variety of operational scientific services. These are the scientists who work in forensic science, food science, health and safety, materials analysis and testing, education, and many more fields where we have grown to rely on them. This kind of scientist, which is rarely seen, is present in many different types of support service environments such as labs.

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Steps on How to Become a Scientist in India

If you are aiming to become a scientist it is best if you start your preparation right after school. Choose your field of interest in science and narrow it down to a particular niche. However, the first step in the process is to choose between PCM or PCB right after your 10th board exams. It is vital to be very good at math if you are aspiring to be a scientist. A specialization in maths is required because research in general deals with statistics.

Specialize in your Field

Have a clear idea as to the niche area that you want to pursue. Select your bachelor’s degree keeping in mind the assorted options like Physics, Mathematics, Biology, Astronomy, Geology, Social Sciences and more. You may also pursue professional courses like  B.Tech, B.Sc, B.Pharma, etc. in your interested subject.

Pursue Higher Education

To become a scientist a bachelor’s degree alone is not required. While a bachelor’s degree will provide you with a strong base to widen your knowledge base, a master’s and a Ph.D. might be essential.

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How to Become a Medical Scientist in India?

Students who want to make a career as medical scientists can pursue a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Taking classes in subjects like life sciences, physical sciences, and math can also be helpful. Check out other steps to becoming a medical scientist in India:

1. After completing undergraduate and postgraduate studies, students typically pursue their PhD. Additionally, students can also pursue dual-degree programs to learn both the clinical skills needed to be a physician and the research skills needed to be a scientist
2. Some of the courses paired with PhD studies include Medical Doctor (M.D.), Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.), Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.), and advanced nursing degrees. Medical research involves laboratory work and original research

How to Become a Data Scientist in India?

Data science is another profession that is booming in the market. However, it is harder than one can imagine making a successful career in data science. The bare minimum requirement for a data scientist is an M.Sc. degree in Mathematical Statistics. But apart from this, candidates require several additional skills such as:

• Mastery of coding and computer programming.
• Should have an understanding of statistical analysis.
• Understanding of Machine learning algorithms like Linear Regression, Logistic Regression, etc. along with R, and Python.
• Mastery of SAS and tools like Rapid Miner, Tableau etc.
• Must display excellent communication skills and great data intuition to become a data scientist.

Difference Between Scientist & Researcher

Oftentimes, the terms scientist and researcher are used interchangeably. Before you set out to become a scientist it is important to understand the distinction between the two terms and clear any misconceptions one may have regarding the 2 professions and their responsibilities.

• A scientist can be a researcher whilst working on testing, verifying, and observing the research project but a researcher cannot be a scientist.
• The primary difference between a scientist and a researcher is that a scientist conducts a systematic, organized investigation of a problem whereas a researcher uses scientific methods to produce a solution. 
• A scientist conducts research in areas strictly affiliated with science whereas a researcher is anyone who does any kind of research in non-scientific topics like literature, education, social science, religion etc.

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Career Opportunities for Scientists

The demand for a scientist is ever-increasing. Science has seeped into almost every area of our life. As human beings grow and technologies advance, there is going to be mass employment of scientists in various government and private organizations. Some of the organizations in our country that employ skillful scientists include:

• Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO)
• Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR)
• Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)
• Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
• Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)
• Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR)
• Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM)
• Indian Association for Cultivation of Science (IACS)
• Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES)

Must Read: How To Become A Scientist In ISRO?

How to Become a Scientist in CSIR?

The CSIR full form is the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research. CSIR is one of the top-tier institutes functioning in the field of science and tech. CSIR has about 38 labs across our country. CSIR conducts recruitment through which candidates can get jobs across the country. Here is the step-wise process to become a scientist in CSIR:

• Candidates with doctoral degrees are offered scholarships by CSIR. The recruitment for CSIR is managed by the Recruitment and Assessment Board (RAB)
• The bare minimum qualification for CSIR is  B.E/B.Tech./M.Sc. in related fields. Additional qualifications can increase chances for employment.
• Candidates who are working as research fellows in CSIR have better chances of landing a CSIR scientist position
•  To join CSIR as a research fellow, candidates can appear for the  CSIR NET JRF exam conducted by the council itself

How to Become a Scientist in India at ISRO?

Perhaps one of the sure-shot ways to make it to ISRO is by getting into  IIST (Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology). ISRO also hires students from  IITs, NITs, and other reputed institutions. Here are the steps to become a scientist in India at ISRO:

1. Getting a degree in courses like Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Radio Engineering, and Engineering Physics can help increase your chances of landing in ISRO. Additionally, candidates must score a minimum of 65% in their degree
2. Candidates can also appear for the ICRB Exam to be hired as scientists or engineers in ISRO

How to Become a Scientist at NASA?

Employment in NASA requires various educational degrees with you. The bare minimum requirement is a master’s in physical and biological sciences. However, a PhD degree can kickstart your career as a scientist at NASA. 

• Candidates must also apply to the numerous scholarships offered by NASA after completing their bachelor’s and master’s degrees
• Another prerequisite is having publications in reputed journals and references from other scientists. 

What are the Skills to be Developed to Become a Scientist?

If you want to know how to become a Scientist, you must know about the skills you need for it. Becoming a successful scientist has little to do with your educational qualifications and much to do with the quality of your research, your experience, and the uniqueness of your discovery. Here are a few skills and daily habits you must inculcate in your daily life. 

• Improving writing skills– to receive grants and publish research work and the results. Therefore exceptional writing skills are imperative in this field. 
• Having a strong knowledge base – it is very important that students aspiring to pursue a career as a scientist stay updated in their field of study. Thus, students must read as many scientific journals to stay updated in their field.
• Curiosity – a very common trait found among scientists in the world is curiosity. Be curious about the world and environment around you. Discovery is only possible if you are interested in understanding what is happening around you and the reason behind it.
• Find a mentor – in such a field it is important to find a mentor who will guide you about research, and opportunities and help you navigate this journey.

Qualification to Become a Scientist

The basic eligibility to be a scientist is as follows:

• Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from a reputed college or an institution.
• Graduation must necessarily be in the field of science.
• Candidates are required to score a minimum of 60% in their graduation.
• In the case of a master’s degree, candidates must score a minimum of 65%.
• The PhD can also be an added advantage.

Also, check out this blog on Famous Women Scientists

Types of Job Roles Scientist

There are different job roles that a scientist can assume depending upon their expertise and specialization. Following are some of the job profiles that you may choose depending on your interest.

• Astronomer
• Agronomist
• Cytologist
• Ethologist
• Botanist
• Epidemiologist
• Microbiologist
• Geologist
• Meteorologist
• Marine biologist
• Paleontologist
• Seismologist

Salary of Scientist in India

Following is the starting salary of scientists working under the job profile. With experience and expertise, the salary may increase.

Job Profile	Salary (Per annum)
Astronomer	6,00,000 – 8,00,000
Agronomist	1,00,773
Botanist	2,47,301
Epidemiologist	1,52,051
Microbiologists	1,32,819
Geologist	2,31,402
Meteorologist	1,20,000
Marine Biologist	99,550
Paleontologist	2,00,000
Seismologist	7,39,000

What is the job outlook for Research Scientist?

There are several growth opportunities in my career as a research scientist. For example, students can specialize in any area of CSR or learn new skills in research and development. 

As a research scientist, a person can work in the medical and biological sectors. The technology sector also hires research scientists. 

Books & Study Material to Become Scientist

Merely earning a degree is not sufficient when planning how to become a Scientist. This field requires plenty of additional reading. You are required to be an avid learner and grab every learning opportunity that comes your way. To aid you in your learning experience, here is a list of important books that you can get started with:

• Encyclopedia of Space Science and Technology by Maureen Salkin, Hans Mark Publication.
• Cell Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Evolution and Ecology by P S Verma.
• The Mammoth Book of Unexplained Phenomena: From bizarre biology to inexplicable astronomy by Roy Bainton.
• When Life Never Died by Michael J. Benton
• The Story of Earth by Robert M. Hazen
• Microbiology: Principles and Explorations by Jacquelyn G Black
• Modern Epidemiology by Kenneth Rothman
• Measuring Behaviour by Patrick Bateson and Paul Martin

How to be a Scientist: Entrance Examinations

Given below is the list of popular entrance exams in India that one must appear as per their preference:

• JEE (Joint Entrance Exam)
• JEE Advanced
• GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering)
• IISER Aptitude test

FAQs

So, that was all about how to become a scientist in India. The first step to becoming a Scientist is pursuing higher education in the field. Some of the top institutes across the world can prepare you to reach your goal. So, what are you waiting for? Connect with our study abroad expert consultants at Leverage Edu and book your FREE educational consulting session today!