Science is ever-evolving, and the opportunities to make an impact with science are seemingly endless. There are many different jobs in the field of science, and each job has its perks and challenges. In this post, we’ll be exploring some of the best jobs in the world of science today, as well as what it takes to be successful in these careers. But first, let’s start with a definition of what exactly science means.

Career In Science

A career in science can be very rewarding, both financially and emotionally. There are many different types of jobs in the science field, ranging from research to teaching.  The following are ninth of the most popular science careers:

1) Physicist

A physicist is a scientist who studies the nature of matter and energy. They use their knowledge to develop new technologies and to understand the universe. Physicists can work in a variety of fields, including healthcare, engineering, and research.

The median salary for a physicist is $97,880 (BLS).

2) Computer Scientists

As a computer scientist, you will research, design, develop, and test software and systems that solve problems. You may work on the hardware side of things as well, developing new ways to make computers faster and more efficient. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for computer scientists will grow by 19 percent from 2016 to 2026.  For this reason, many computer science majors earn their PhDs and get careers in academia.

Projected Median Salary: $103,500

3) Biologists

A biologist is an animal or plant scientist who studies living organisms. Biologists study organisms’ structures, functions, evolutionary relationships, and interactions with each other and their environments. Biologists also help protect people’s health by preventing the spread of disease. Biologists may be involved in teaching about biology or providing research on topics like conservation biology and climate change.

Biologists research living organisms and their relationship to their environment. They often specialize in a particular area, such as plant or animal biology. Biologists typically need a bachelor’s degree for entry-level positions, but some research positions may require a master’s degree or doctorate.

The median annual wage for biochemists was $77,040 in May 2016. The top employers of biochemists are academic institutions, scientific research and development services firms, state government agencies, hospitals and other healthcare services providers, and pharmaceutical manufacturing companies.

4) Environmental Engineers

Environmental engineers work to protect and improve the quality of the natural environment. They develop plans to prevent or clean up environmental pollution. They also work on projects to improve recycling, waste disposal, public health, and water and air quality. Environmental engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a related field. To practice as an engineer, they must be licensed by the state. There are many different types of licenses including those for structural, fire protection, marine, and land surveying. Engineers who are not licensed may work as technicians but may not design structures.

Biomedical engineers apply knowledge from biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering to help people live longer and healthier lives. As part of their job, biomedical engineers create medical devices such as artificial hearts and X-ray machines.

The median salary wage for biomedical engineers is $83,690 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, this varies based on location and experience levels. For example, some biomedical engineers make over $100K annually if they live in Washington D.C., California, Massachusetts, or New York City (all with expensive living costs).

5) Biochemists and biophysicists

Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes, such as cell development, growth, heredity, and disease. They use their knowledge to develop new pharmaceuticals and therapies, diagnostic tests, and treatments. For example, they can learn how a virus behaves so that they can design an effective vaccine. A PhD is required for this job.

The median salary wage for biochemists and biophysicists was $73,060 in 2010 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

6) Geoscientists

Geoscientists study the physical aspects of the Earth, such as its composition, structure, and processes. They use their knowledge to solve problems related to natural resources, environmental issues, and hazards. There are approximately 1,400 geoscientists in America.

Geologists make an average salary of $92,710 annually. The top-paying employer for geologists is ExxonMobil Corporation where they can earn up to $187,000 per year.

7) Chemical engineers

They work in various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and petrochemicals. They develop processes and equipment for large-scale manufacturing, plan and test production methods, and supervise production. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that products meet safety and quality standards. Chemical engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering.

Starting salaries are $68,000 per year on average.

8) Atmospheric scientists

Atmospheric scientists study the Earth’s atmosphere and its many processes, including weather, climate, and air quality. They use their findings to help protect us from environmental hazards and to improve our understanding of the planet. Some common tasks include observing atmospheric changes and measuring pollutants, collecting data on greenhouse gases, modeling climate change, or investigating accidents such as a nuclear power plant leak. These professionals work for research laboratories, universities, government agencies, private companies, and consulting firms. Typical qualifications include an advanced degree in physical sciences like meteorology or geosciences; post-doctoral experience; high-level computer skills; and fluency in foreign languages like French or Chinese.

The median salary wage for this occupation is $62,740 per year. Employment prospects for this job are excellent: the number of people employed will increase by 15% over the next 10 years. There are approximately 6,000 people employed in this profession currently.

9) Hydrologists

A career as a hydrologist is perfect for someone who loves the outdoors and enjoys working with data. As a hydrologist, you will study water cycles and collect data on precipitation, evaporation, and runoff. This information is used to help solve water-related problems, such as drought or flooding. Hydrologists typically work with federal, state, and local agencies that regulate water use.

The median salary for this job is $65,350 per year.

Conclusion

Though there are many types of jobs available in the science field, these are some of the most common and essential positions. With a wide range of specialties, there is a science job out there for everyone. So whatever your passion, be sure to pursue it and make a difference in the world.