Motivation Research scientists are motivated by curiosity about the world and how it works.

Wanting to further their own and others peoples understanding about anything and everything they can. They also have the desire to solve problems and discover the intricacies of the world. Research is a career in which you can follow your own path and choose to study what you wish in order to have a fulfilling job. Whatever you find interesting can be studied and taken apart to understand more than the person before you. They are also motivated by constant changes in technologies that bring with them opportunities to study everything in more detail. Career Path The career path of a research scientist can vary wildly depending on the industry they go into and the level of study they have undertaken. Many people will choose to study for their PhD before going into industry in which case they would first normally undertake a postdoctoral position for around 2 years. This would be the one of the last steps in becoming an independent scientist having been allowed to undertake individual projects and learning to lead a team without the pressures of teaching others or applying for grants. This time would also allow you to have achieved publications of papers. A postdoctoral position is an intermediate to allow you to reach full maturity before applying for more senior positions such as those involving teaching others or leading your own team. If you were to enter a job straight after completion of your undergraduate degree you would start at a much more junior level and would have to work up the career ladder at a much slower pace. Your first job would involve at lot more basic work and you would not normally be allowed to undertake your own research but rather aide in other peoples. Three main industries: University departments teach + research Government agencies problems of national interest Commercial companies Following the companies objectives

Facts to maybe have as separate bubbles 100 people apply for each job 4-6 shortlisted candidates References Gabrys, B and Langdale, J (2012). How to Succeed as a Scientist. New York: Cambridge University Press. 81-92. Rosei, F and Johnston, T (2006). Survival Skills for Scientists. London: Imperial College Press. 25-30. MacRitchie, F (2011). Scientific Research as a Career. Florida: CRC Press. 15-19.