• Question: how did you qualify to become a scientist

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      Asked by anon-287435 on 15 Mar 2021. This question was also asked by anon-287238.
      • Photo: Paul O'Nion

        Paul O'Nion answered on 15 Mar 2021:

        It will really depend on the job but ideally, you would want to do a science GCSE. I would then suggest you do at least one science based A Level, depending on what you want interests you, I did Chemistry, physics and maths mysef. A lot of companies will like you to have a relevant degree. it will certainly get you in at a higher starting point.

      • Photo: Ben Esse

        Ben Esse answered on 15 Mar 2021:

        Lots of learning! After completing my A-Levels I went to University of 4 years to study for a masters degree and I have just finished my PhD (another 4 and a bit years). I would say that learning practical skills is as important as the more academic side though, things like computer coding or electronics have been invaluable for me.

      • Photo: Jessica Higgins

        Jessica Higgins answered on 15 Mar 2021:

        There’s an academic route: GCSE, A Level (at least one science subject), degree, masters and PhD (optional). This is the route I went down.
        Or the practical route through apprenticeships and on the job training. This is usually for more engineering type companies but not always. If you join a company through an apprenticeship they may pay for you to complete a degree part-time.

      • Photo: Martin McCoustra

        Martin McCoustra answered on 15 Mar 2021:

        I got a good set of Highers at school and then went to university to get my first degree. As I wanted to be an academic, I had then to do a research degree… a doctorate. This took 3 more years over the 4 for my first degree. Even then I wasn’t an independent scientist until I got my first academic job.

      • Photo: Jesko Koehnke

        Jesko Koehnke answered on 15 Mar 2021:

        I don’t think there is really a way to qualify for that as such. I went to school, university and got a PhD. That is a prerequisite for doing what I do, but it is not necessarily a qualification 😉

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