Research Scientist

Research scientists are researchers who are interested in medicine and health. They study diseases, drugs, microorganisms, genetics, the environment, and other areas related to human health. They have been responsible for the development of new treatments, vaccines to prevent diseases, safe food-handling techniques, environmental safeguards, and new diagnostic equipment.

Work Environment
Research scientists generally work erratic hours in offices or laboratories and are usually exposed to unsafe or unhealthy conditions. Some work with dangerous organisms or toxic substances in the laboratory, so strict safety procedures must be followed to avoid contamination. Federal, state and local governments employ almost four in 10 non-faculty research scientists.

Job Outlook
Employment for research scientists is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. Efforts to clean up and preserve the environment will continue to add to job growth.

Length of Training/
Requirements
Most colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in science-related fields, and many offer advanced degrees. Not all universities offer all specialty programs. Advanced degree programs include classroom and fieldwork, laboratory research, and a thesis or dissertation. The Ph.D. degree in science is the minimum education required for most research science positions. In addition to formal education, research scientists usually spend several years gaining work experience before they are offered permanent jobs.

Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, research subject, and experience. Current salaries range from $30,000 - $100,000+.

Educational Programs
Most of Texas' accredited colleges and universities offer undergraduate courses in the sciences. Graduate schools may offer master's and doctoral degrees in specified scientific disciplines. Contact the school you are interested in for specific information.

Professional Associations
American Physiological Society Membership Services Dept.
9650 Rockville Pike, Fourth Floor
Bethesda, MD 20814
301/530-7118 or 301/571-1883

American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
9650 Rockville Pike
Bethesda, MD 20814
301/530-7145