Data scientist

Data scientists find patterns in data collected by large organisations in order to solve the problems that the organisations face. Data scientists extract, analyse and interpret data using algorithms, data mining, artificial intelligence, machine learning and statistical tools. They then present this data and find ways to solve problems in innovative and imaginative ways.

Attributes: imaginative, logical and open-minded

Useful links:

Computer scientist

Computer scientists use technology to solve problems and prepare for the future. They write and program software to create applications. Computer scientists work in database theory and software engineering. They use numerical analysis and programming languages in their work.

Attributes: organised, logical and resilient

Useful links:

Biotechnologist

Biotechnologists study the genetic, chemical and physical properties of cells, tissues and organisms, and discover ways to use this knowledge. They may work in the food industry and make enzymes and preservatives to use in food and drink. They may work in agriculture and genetically modify crops to improve yields. They may work in the medical industry and create new drugs and treatments. They may even work to improve the environment by converting plants into biofuels.

Attributes: observant, curious and imaginative

Useful links:

Atmospheric scientist

Atmospheric scientists study the atmosphere of our planet. They may study the weather and make predictions for future weather, but differ from meteorologists as they study the past, present and future impacts of large weather systems on the Earth along with smaller impacts on biological life. Atmospheric scientists may study and analyse air quality to assess the impact of this on the environment and public health. They collect data to produce computer models to predict the impacts of the atmosphere on the planet in the future.

Attributes: creative, observant and passionate

Useful links:

Artificial intelligence researcher

Artificial intelligence researchers create models and simulations to teach computers how to solve complex problems. They model the problems using mathematics, and develop new methods to solve these problems. They write code to create algorithms and test and analyse these algorithms to see how well they solve the problem.

Attributes: curious, resilient and open-minded

Useful links:

Applications scientist

Applications scientists plan and develop methods and tests to use in laboratories and hospitals. They explain how to use these investigations to other STEM professionals. They may develop ways to detect medical diseases or tests for forensic laboratories to use with samples taken from crime scenes.

Attributes: logical, patient and collaborative

Useful links:

  • The Primary Science Teaching Trust has a downloadable slideshow (PDF) about Dr Yogesh Kumar who is an applications scientist. It’s part of their resource A Scientist Just Like Me.

Solar Scientist

A solar scientist is a type of astrophysicist who studies the Sun and it’s interactions with the Earth. They make detailed measurements of our nearest star using observations from solar satellites. Solar scientists study the impact of the sun on the Earth and on our technology. They are working on ways to capture solar energy more effectively which could slow down global warming.

Attributes: resilient, curious and observant

Useful links:

Immunologist

An immunologist studies the immune system which protects the human body from infection and disease such as autoimmunity, allergies and cancer. They can work in a laboratory focusing on research or on the diagnosis and management of autoimmune diseases and allergies. A new area of research for immunologists is the contributions of immune responses to the development of metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s.

Attributes: observant, imaginative, communicator

Useful links:

Water quality scientist

Water quality scientists ensure water quality standards for safe drinking water are met. They test and analyse water samples and ensure these meet the water quality standards. They may specialise in working with drinking water, ground water or surface water including rivers, lakes and estuaries.  Water quality scientists may need to work closely with businesses, the public or other water industry professionals.

Attributes: communicator, logical, observant

Useful links:

Sports Scientist

Sports scientists require the ability to analyse physical and sporting performance alongside the ability to apply scientific ideas and principles. They work with sports coaches and sports therapists to improve the performance of individuals and teams, work with doctors to help people improve their health through exercise and work with hospitals and other health organisations in areas such as cardiac rehabilitation. When they are not directly working with athletes, sports scientists work on research projects to gather new information on a wide variety of sports-related topics. They use specialist equipment to measure the effects of things such as sports shoes, clothing and nutrition on an athlete’s body and offer advice on the design and manufacture of sports equipment.

Attributes: collaborative, resilient, communicator

Useful links: