The great thing about the various branches of science is the sheer number of fields from which to delve into. From biological study and formal logic to any number of natural phenomena, there’s an incredible breadth and depth to scientific subjects.
Naturally then, there’s a whole host of jobs and occupations that go beyond the walls of the laboratory and into some weird and wonderful areas of study. Since STEM strives to give young people from all backgrounds the drive to progress into related careers, we want to show those with an interest in science the kind of cool, weird and wonderful science jobs that are possible to move towards in your career.
The below infographic highlights ten unusual jobs available in science.
10 cool jobs in science you didn't know existed
These 10 jobs are indicative of the diverse, varied fields that are open to study, covering a range of sciences. From something as daring as a snake milker or a volcanologist to the intrigue of fermentation science and astronaut psychology, these unusual jobs demonstrate the sense of innovation and progression that STEM Learning strives to inspire young people with.
Even though some of these occupations seem fanciful, as if they were plucked straight from a Hollywood movie, they require years of education and experience.
Take, for instance, the role of the firework designer, or pyrotechnic engineer, to give the more official-sounding title. Who wouldn’t want to create the many-splendored explosions that adorn the sky on Bonfire Night? But obviously, such an engineer needs to be well-versed in chemical compounds and how they’ll react. Therefore, a bachelor’s in chemical engineering, chemistry or a related field is required to get started in this industry. Likewise, an entry-level role as a volcanologist will require a bachelor’s in geology, geophysics or earth science at an absolute minimum.
While not all of these jobs require a STEM education – pet food taster, for instance – the majority of those listed are populated by talented individuals with the appropriate academic background.
"Even though some of these occupations seem fanciful, they require years of education and experience."
It is arguable that it’s the STEM subjects that have provided an invaluable foundation upon which people in these respective fields have built. Education in these areas allows for greater awareness of choice and opportunity at an early age; the road to these opportunities is not always something young people are aware of, but a background in STEM fosters a knowledge and skill set that helps to open doors later down the line.
STEM subjects, particularly early on, instil critical thinking and problem-solving while also providing the skills needed to move into the unknown. STEM education equips those with a natural inclination towards curiosity with the drive, desire and knowledge to succeed in some of the world’s most extreme and unusual careers.
About the author
Marcus Cannon is the Director at InterFocus Ltd, a bespoke laboratory design and installation company, based in Cambridge.