Career Options for Postgraduate Science Students

These days, many science graduates opt to pursue specialist study after graduation in a number of niche subject areas. For many this is simply out of a desire to develop their knowledge further, however, having a postgraduate qualification can also lead to an increased number of job opportunities for those seeking employment.

So once you've got your postgraduate scientific qualifications – what are your options?

Biotechnologist

The UK is a leading nation in biotechnology research, and biotechnologists apply their knowledge to solving problems posed by industry, commerce, medicine and the environment. Biotechnologists can have knowledge of plant, animal and microbial sciences, biochemistry, genetics, computing and some applied aspects of agriculture, horticulture, environmental science and food science.

Some employers in industry will recruit recent graduates onto their training programmes, although many positions – including those in research and teaching – require entrants to have further qualifications, such as an MSc or a PhD as well as several years of experience.

Salary Guide

Salaries depend very much on the nature of the employer, but start at around £18,500-£24,000. Departmental heads in industry can earn in excess of £60,000.

Sport Scientist

Sports science is now an established part of most sports at all levels throughout the UK. Qualified sports science specialists often work with other professionals, such as physiotherapists and dieticians. They have a knowledge of the four main strands of sport and exercise science – biomechanics, physiology, psychology and performance analysis.

Sport and exercise science is now one of the most popular degrees, so if you are looking to enter this profession, a postgraduate course in sport and exercise science can be taken after gaining a degree in a biological science or a related subject.

Salary Guide

A qualified sports scientist may start on around £18,000. With experience, this may rise to £35,000. Experienced sport scientists working in high levels of competitive sport may earn £60,000+ a year.

Forensic Scientist

Forensic science incorporates a range of scientific disciplines including chemistry, biology and mathematics. Forensics are used in other fields such as archaeology, but their main function is to provide impartial, scientific evidence for use in courts of law. The role of a forensic scientist varies according to their area of specialism.

Subjects covered by forensic science can include blood grouping and DNA profiling, the analysis of fluid and tissue samples for drugs and poisons, or the identification, comparison and matching of various materials. Others examine splash patterns and the distribution of particles, analyse handwriting, or have expertise in explosives and firearms.

Salary Guide

Salaries at entry level are around £19,000 a year. With experience, earnings may reach £30,000. Those in senior posts can earn over £50,000.

Meteorologist

Meteorologists study weather, climate, radiation, fluid dynamics and cloud physics. The basis of much of their work is to observe and record day-to-day weather, which is then translated into coded messages and transmitted around the globe using high-speed telecommunications systems. The Met Office  is the largest employer of meteorologists in the UK and provides training and continuing professional development for its scientists.

Salary guide

Starting rates for graduates can be between £17,000 and £21,000. This can then increase to £30,000-£46,000 with experience. Senior meteorologists or those with management responsibilities may earn up to £60,000 a year.

Geologist

Geologists study the structure and composition of rocks and minerals by analysing samples and conducting surveys. They work in a variety of different areas, including environmental geology, water supplies, energy exploration, volcanology,  seismology, and palaeontology. Methods used by geologists include electromagnetic measurement, drilling, satellite imaging, aerial imagery, and seismic surveying.

Salary Guide

Geologists with a postgraduate qualification may earn between £23,000 and £30,000 a year, rising to £40,000 with experience. Senior geologists may earn more than £50,000 a year. Salaries vary depending on the area a geologist works in, with those employed by private oil companies and consultancies tending to be more highly paid than others.

Clinical Psychologist

Clinical psychologists work to help people with a wide range of mental or physical health problems cope with their challenges and make positive changes. The ultimate aim is to reduce their clients’ psychological distress and enhance and promote their psychological well-being. They can work in both the National Health Service (NHS) and in private practices, in health and social care settings as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Postgraduate study is essential to enter this occupation. You cannot pursue a career in psychology without being a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society.

To get charted status, you must have Graduate Basis for Registration (GBR), the easiest way being to complete an Honours degree in psychology accredited by the BPS. You must also have successfully completed a three-year full-time Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Entry onto this programme is extremely competitive, with fewer than 30 per cent of applicants being accepted each year. A good degree, relevant work experience and demonstrable research skills will improve your chances.

Salary Guide

A typical salary within the NHS may range from £23,458 a year to £43,335 with experience. Pay scales can go up to £80,000+ for very senior positions. Salaries in private practice may vary – some highly experienced psychologists can earn upwards of £70,000. 

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