A research scientist is responsible for creating, collecting and analyzing data and information from lab-based experiments. Job responsibilities of a research scientist include designing and conducting experiments, analyzing the results of the experiments, creating reports and presentations explaining the findings, demonstrating experiments, supervising staff, creating research and funding proposals, maintaining records of experiments, ensuring that health and safety standards are met, and maintaining knowledge of relevant technical and scientific developments.
A bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, physics or a related field, as well as a relevant postgraduate qualification is generally required to be a research scientist. Helpful job skills include good analytical skills, strong communication skills (both written and verbal), great critical thinking and problem-solving skills, ability to work in a team and independently, attention to detail, patience, self-motivation, and ability to think systematically. The future job market outlook for a research scientist is strong and increasing.
