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Science, mathematics and statistics
What does it involve?
Scientists can find themselves working in many different work areas. Healthcare and pharmaceuticals might seem obvious, but space, the environment, food and drink, hair and beauty, textiles, crime and archaeology, as well as many other fields of work, all need scientists. They are especially important to help improve the world we live in.
There are some jobs available for people with just GCSEs or A levels but many of the jobs involve having a degree, foundation degree or HND. You need to have patience, good observational and communication skills, be good at problem solving and be able to pay attention to detail.
You may find yourself working in a laboratory, a factory, an office, outdoors or even in a classroom if you became a science or maths teacher.
What’s happening in the industry?
Science in the UK is very strong and UK scientists are recognised for their skills around the world. Research and development (R & D), biotechnology and environmental science are the areas where the most opportunities can be found.
Some companies, especially in the pharmaceuticals industry, merge together to make larger companies and this can often mean redundancies. However, the result of this means that sometimes, smaller companies are formed that look at very specialised areas of research.
Research into new drugs is becoming very popular as is climate science and people with the right skills will be in demand. Because of the global nature of science, the ability to speak more than one language will be an advantage.
The UK is a world leader in space technology and science. Over 15,000 people work in this sector and it's growing fast. UK teams are involved in dozens of missions, from spacecraft orbiting other planets to the many satellites monitoring the Earth. Space technology is also used in weather forecasting, pollution mapping, satellite TV, global communications and satellite navigation. The industry employs people highly skilled in science, information technology, engineering and mathematics.
There is also a shortage of people available to teach science and maths and 6,600 science teachers are needed over the next two years. (Find out more from the Training and Development Agency and watch the You Tube video).
What's happening locally?
How to get into this type of work:
- School or college - study for GCSES, a diploma, AS / A levels, NVQs or other vocational qualifications that could lead to a job, an Apprenticeship, further qualifications or even a degree.
- e2e (Entry to Employment) - if you’re not sure if you’re suited to this job you might be able to get some work experience through e2e. It can also give you extra support to gain the right qualifications, get onto a training programme or get a job.
- Apprenticeship - train ‘on-the-job’ with a wage or allowance. For the latest Apprenticeship vacancies in Nottinghamshire go to Vacancies Online.
- Work or work with training
Which skills?
- Team work
- Communication
- Can pay attention to detail
- Problem solving
What else can I do?
- Get some work experience.
- Brush up on some of your skills such as ICT and customer service
- Read about science, mathematics and statistics work on Jobs4U or look for the online EClips job descriptions in your school or nearest Connexions centre.
