How to Become a Research Scientist: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you have a passion for discovery and a keen interest in scientific questions, becoming a research scientist could be the right career for you. Research scientists explore new ideas, conduct experiments, and contribute to advancing knowledge in various fields, such as biology, chemistry, physics, and more. But how do you become a research scientist? What qualifications, degrees, and career paths should you pursue to get there?

Understanding the Role of a Research Scientist

Before exploring the education needed, it’s important to know what a research scientist does. Research scientists design and run experiments to help expand our understanding of science. Their main tasks include:

• They create ideas to test and design experiments to explore them.
• They gather data from their experiments and study it to conclude.
• They work with fellow scientists to share ideas and findings.
• They write papers and present their results at conferences to contribute to the scientific community.

Research scientists can work in many different fields, such as universities, government agencies, and private companies. Their specific tasks depend on their area of focus.

Steps to Becoming a Research Scientist

Here are the key steps to follow if you want to become a research scientist:

1. Obtain the Right Education

The first step in how to become a research scientist is completing the necessary education. In most cases, a research scientist degree is required, and the level of education depends on the specific research field you wish to enter.

To become a research scientist, you’ll typically need to meet the following education requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree

The foundation of your career begins with a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field. Common degrees for research scientist qualifications include:

• Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology
• Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemistry
• Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Environmental Science
• Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Physics

If you want to become a computer and information research scientist, a degree in information technology is a good choice.

Master’s Degree (Optional)

Some research fields require a master’s degree for specialized knowledge and advanced research skills. A research scientist degree such as a master’s helps you delve deeper into your area of interest.

Doctorate (PhD)

For most research scientist careers, especially in academia or senior research roles, a PhD is required. A doctorate prepares you for independent research and gives you expertise in your chosen field.

2. Gain Practical Experience

Hands-on experience is critical when learning how to become a research scientist. This experience can help you understand lab techniques, research methods, and data analysis processes.

Internships and Research Assistant Roles
Seek opportunities such as research assistant positions or internships while studying. These positions provide you with practical experience in scientific settings, helping you build your research skills.

Postdoctoral Research
After completing your PhD, a postdoctoral research role allows you to continue gaining experience in your field. It’s a great opportunity to refine your research skills and contribute to important scientific studies.

3. Develop Key Skills

To succeed as a research scientist, you’ll need a combination of technical and soft skills. These include:

• The ability to analyze data and solve complex problems.
• Precision is essential in research to ensure accurate results.
• Explain your findings clearly in both written and spoken forms.
• Work in teams, so being a team player is important.

4. Pursue Certifications

Although licensing is not usually required for research scientists, certifications can help you stand out. The Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) offers valuable certifications, such as Certified Clinical Research Associate, Certified Principal Investigator, and ACRP Certified Professional.

5. Specialize in a Research Area

As a research scientist, you’ll need to decide which field you want to specialize in. Common areas of specialization include:

• Biomedical research focuses on healthcare, diseases, and treatments.
• Environmental science involves studying and solving environmental challenges.
• Chemistry and physics explore materials, chemicals, and fundamental scientific principles.

Specializing helps you build deep knowledge in a specific area and prepares you for advanced roles.

6. Follow the Research Scientist Career Path

The career path for a research scientist can vary, but most professionals progress through several stages of their careers. After gaining experience in the field, you might take on roles such as:

• A Research Scientist is an entry-level or mid-level role where you conduct experiments and gather data.
• A Principal Investigator (PI) oversees research projects and manages a team of scientists.
• Some research scientists move into academia as professors or lecturers, teaching and mentoring students while continuing their research.
• Industry scientists work in private companies or non-profits, focusing on product development or applied research.

7. Stay Updated and Pursue Professional Development

The field of science is always changing, and staying updated is critical. You can do this by:

• Attending scientific conferences and workshops.
• Reading research journals.
• Publishing your own research to contribute to the scientific community.

By continuing to learn and improve, you’ll stay at the forefront of your field.

Salary and Job Outlook for Research Scientists

The job outlook for research scientists varies by field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for research scientists in the medical field is expected to grow by 11%, much faster than the 4% average for all jobs. As for computer and information research scientists are expected to grow by 26% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all jobs.

A Career in Research Science is Worth Pursuing

Becoming a research scientist is a path that combines curiosity and hard work, with the chance to make a real difference in areas like healthcare, the environment, and technology. While the journey may be long, the rewards go beyond salary or job security; they lie in the impact you can have on solving important problems.

Research scientists are essential in addressing today’s challenges, and the field offers continuous opportunities to learn and grow. In the end, becoming a research scientist is about a passion for discovery and a desire to contribute to a better future.