Science and Technology
Are you at home in a laboratory? Do you have a real passion for technology? The opportunities for graduates interested in a career in science and technology in the UK are vast. Developing and researching new technologies and products is vital to the growth of many industries and spans many different sectors such as the energy, chemicals, engineering and pharmaceuticals.
The UK is world-renowned for its biotechnological research and development and 40% of biotechnology products developed in Europe are made by British companies. The life sciences sector alone employs more than 400,000 people in the UK, while a further 50,000 people are employed in the medical technology market. Around 80% of the UK's scientists are employed by a few giant science and technology companies, such as
Babcock.
If you are an innovative thinker, then this sector offers the opportunity to be involved in groundbreaking work. Graduates can expect a diverse and exciting career, which can also be very rewarding. There is currently a biosciences skills shortage, so there are greater opportunities for graduates wishing to enter this sector.
Working hours depend on the type of work you are involved in but, on the whole, jobs in this industry follow a normal weekday working pattern. Working environments vary according to the kind of work - you may be based in an office, laboratory, warehouse or factory or you may need to work outdoors.
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Graduates training as biomedical scientists earn between £20,710 and £26,839 per year, rising to between £24,831 and £33,436. More senior or experienced practitioners can earn up to £65,657. A meteorologist employed by the Met office will have a starting salary of around £19,500, rising to between £38,000 and £60,000 for more senior-level posts.
A research scientist working in life sciences can expect a starting salary of £16,500 to £22,000 at technician level. Research assistants with a Masters degree earn between £22,000 and £27,500, while those at post-doctorate research level earn £26,500 to £35,000 per year. Senior researchers and professors can earn more than £50,000 per year.
A good science degree is essential for most careers in science and technology, though non-science graduates can also find opportunities in the sector. Sometimes a postgraduate or masters degree is also necessary, although many large companies offer graduate recruitment schemes and some employers in the sector support career development, allowing employees to study for a postgraduate or PhD alongside their work.
Strong cognitive and technical abilities are needed for a career in science and technology, though a high premium is placed on an employee?s willingness and ability to learn new skills. Problem-solving and numeracy skills are important in this sector, as well as excellent attention to detail, accuracy and the ability to work well as part as a team.
