Layout 1
GRADUATE JOBS IN SCIENCE
Science 2010
graduate jobs in pharmaceuticals • biotechnology • research
sponsored by
opportunities in Ireland, north and south • useful contacts • graduate profiles • what employers want
gradireland Science 2010
Welcome
written by Angela Teahan, National University of Ireland, Galway
revised by Marie Gonnelly, Dublin Institute of Technoogy.
Contents
Your science career
Introducing your science career ......2
What can I do with my degree? ......4
Getting a job............................................6
Areas of work
Areas of work ..........................................8
Pharmachemical industry ................9
Food industry........................................10
Environmental science ....................11
Public sector..........................................12
Alternative careers ............................13
People at work
My science career ..............................14
Professional development
Training and career development..15
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Science 2010 | 1
Your science career
Introducing your science career
Science as a career choice
Science is not something just for the chosen few
– each one of us, regardless of our background,
has to understand science to some degree in
order to progress through life. Science is the
axis on which all our decisions are based, the
best method for acquiring information about
everything around us. Employment
opportunities exist for science graduates in a
wide range of areas – and you don't even have
to work in a laboratory. Science is a key sector for
graduates, opening doors to the pharmaceutical,
biotechnology and medical devices industries.
Research and development (R&D) is also an area
which is very significant and many alternative
job roles are available once you have acquired
the appropriate qualifications and skills.
See pages 8–12 for some of the main areas of
work in science.
Science in the Republic of Ireland
The pharmachemical industry in the Republic is dominated
people are employed in science related occupations in
by multinational companies, many of them household
Ireland, which represents almost one per cent of the
names. Nine of the top ten global pharmaceutical
total workforce.
companies are based in Ireland, with seven of the top
Investment in postgraduate research continues to be a
ten blockbuster drugs produced here. Encouraged by
government strategy, leading to continuing opportunities
investment from IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland, many
in research and development. Innovation in research will
multinationals continue to invest in both research and
be key to ensuring that major multinational employers in
development and manufacturing. Ireland’s low corporation
these sectors remain here and continue to invest heavily
tax, one of the lowest in the world, continues to attract
in their Irish operations. The 2009 Government Strategy
foreign investment by multinational companies. Most of
Powering the Smart Economy highlights Ireland’s
the major US medical technology players are represented
commitment to establishing a critical mass of
in Ireland, with manufacturing facilities in many locations,
internationally competitive research in the areas
and the biotechnology industry is also strong. Over 25,000
of science and engineering.
2 |
Science 2010
Your science career
Science in Northern Ireland
The public sector remains a considerable
employer of graduates in general and recruits a
substantial number of scientists. In the private
sector, there are openings for graduates in the
pharmaceutical and medical devices industries.
The life sciences industries employ over 4,000
people in Northern Ireland. Invest Northern
Ireland continues to promote investment in
small companies to boost capability through
research and development.
Northern Ireland is seen as a prime location
for biotechnology and medical healthcare
technology companies. Research centres have
been established in the University of Ulster
Employers want science graduates
and Queen’s University Belfast in areas such as
pharmaceutical, biomedical, cancer and medical
The real concern for the science sector is in
polymer research. Research and development
attracting the skilled graduates it needs to
remains a growing area, with major investment
continue its long-term development. The 2009
in research facilities continuing by Invest
FÁS National Skills Bulletin highlights that
Northern Ireland.
employment opportunities in science in Ireland
are concentrated in the areas of manufacturing,
chemical and chemical products, food products
and beverages, and healthcare. 60 per cent of
those working in science are at technician level,
What if I don’t want to work in a lab?
with 40 per cent working at professional levels.
Many students labour under the misconception
Between 2003 and 2008, 3200 positions were
that science limits you to teaching, research
created, with two thirds of these at professional
and laboratory work. They believe that they
levels. 90 per cent of those working at
are married to science for the rest of their
professional levels are third-level graduates.
lives. This is so far removed from reality. The
Recent employment forecasts from FÁS and the
wonderful point about science is that it armours
Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI)
you with skills for life. Having a degree will
highlight a strong demand for science graduates,
give you logical thinking and problem solving
so you will be sought after. Because of this
abilities which will open the door to a wide
demand, science jobs pay well: according to the
array of opportunities. Journalism, sales and
gradireland Graduate Salary and Graduate
marketing, human resources, patents and
Recruitment Trends Survey 2009, the average
medical writing are but a few examples of
starting salary for graduates in science roles
the choices open to you.
was over €25,000. The majority of employers
See page 13 for more on alternative careers for
surveyed reported that they pay more for
science graduates.
students with a postgraduate degree.
Science 2010 | 3
Your science career
What can I do with my degree?
Specific scientific disciplines may open many different career paths.
Therearedifferentbranchesofscience,andthejob
opportunities open to you will depend to some extent
on the specific scientific discipline that you have
chosen to major in.
Biochemistry
Biochemists work in various environments where living cells
and tissues play a role, examining the effects that drugs have
on plants and animals. Biochemists also work in hospital
laboratories analysing tissue and blood samples, while others
find employment in the brewing and food industries.
Biomedical engineering
developing medical products to designing and modifying
“
‘I work for a medical device manufacturer
and my job is very varied. I could be on
the manufacturing floor conducting
trials, at my desk report writing or
travelling across the USA.’
Aine Ruddy, Associate Manufacturing Engineer
Biomedical engineers fuse engineering principles with clinical
medical equipment for managing the use of clinical equipment
medicine to design and manufacture a wide variety of medical
in a clinical setting. You could be involved in developing and
devices which can diagnose, cure or prevent disease, combining
producing biocompatible prostheses, or designing clinical
engineering design and problem solving skills with medical and
equipment and medical devices such as implants or medical
biological sciences. You could work in private industry,
imaging devices. Biomedical engineers are also involved in
government, hospitals, consultancy or research centres. There
tissue, genetic and pharmaceutical engineering.
are numerous opportunities from researching, designing and
Biomedical science
Biomedical scientists are involved in testing tissue and body
fluid samples to diagnose disease and monitor the treatment
of patients. Biomedical scientists have strong knowledge of
biomedical and biological sciences including biochemistry, cell
biology, cellular pathology, clinical chemistry, haematology,
medical genetics, medical microbiology, molecular biology,
physiology, path physiology and transfusion science. The
majority of graduates are employed in the public sector in
hospitals and the Irish Blood Transfusion Service. Many
graduates are also employed by universities, schools and
colleges, biopharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, and
specialist research institutes. To work as a medical scientist in
hospital laboratories, your degree must be recognised by the
Academy of Medical Laboratory Science (www.amls.ie).
Botany
Graduates in botany go on to become university lecturers,
wildlife officers, environmental consultants and molecular
biologists.
4 |
Science 2010
Your science career
Chemistry
opportunities for numerate graduates especially in the IT
You could find work in the pharmaceutical and chemical
and financial services sectors.
manufacturing industries as a professional chemist and in
other areas such as environmental analysis; microelectronics;
Microbiology
environmental protection; horticulture; healthcare; food;
Employment opportunities include laboratory work in a
biotechnology; agriculture; cosmetics; and textiles sectors.
hospital environment where you aid in the process of
identifying the cause of disease in patients. The food
Environmental science
industry is also an area where the role of the microbiologist
There is always a demand for environmental science graduates,
is paramount in the investigation of spoilage and decay,
often securing positions in environmental management,
checking and monitoring samples for bacteria and meeting
nature conservation, pollution control, environmental
the required standards of quality (quality control).
consultancy, state agencies, industry and education at
secondary and tertiary level. See page 11 for more information.
Physics
A degree in physics gives you boundless opportunities such
Food science
as developing medical equipment, optical devices, electronic
You could work in food production, food processing, quality
devices and new energy sources. There are opportunities for
assurance or food analysis. There are also opportunities
employment in the computer and electronic industry as well
in instrumental analysis. You could also be involved in
as optics and telecommunications and in the chemical and
producing, processing, evaluating, packaging or distributing
engineering industries. The medical industry is a popular area
food. Opportunities are vast: investigating food safety
for graduates in recent years allowing opportunities in medical
and disease, developing flavours, working in food quality
physics, optics, biophysics and radiology. Other jobs are
assurance, developing new foods, or developing processes
available in a range of careers including astronomy, financial
to manufacture safe and nutritious products.
risk analysis, computer games and weather forecasting.
Maths
Zoology
Maths is the foundation on which so many careers are built.
Zoology graduates find employment in fisheries, marine
Computer scientists, physicists, economists, statisticians and
biology, agriculture, forensic science and environmental
actuaries all use maths extensively. There are many career
research.
Science 2010 | 5
Your science career
Getting a job
How to find vacancies in the science sector and what to expect from the recruitment process.
production of new drugs. The Irish pharmachemical industry
directly employs almost 25,000 people, over half of whom
hold a third-level qualification. The PharmaChemical Ireland
report Why Ireland should be your location of choice stated
that Ireland is 9 per cent above the European average
in producing third-level science graduates. By 2015, it is
predicted that 50 per cent of all drugs produced globally will
be through biotechnology, and Ireland needs to continue to
attract investment from such companies.
However, the science sector in Ireland is also made up of
a wide variety of other industries including agrochemicals,
petrochemicals, toiletries, plastics, paints, polymers,
food and drink, environmental management, medical
research/diagnostic companies, utilities, energy, health
and local authorities, research associations, laboratories,
agencies and organisations.
There are therefore a huge range of occupations available,
including product and process development; research and
development; manufacturing; compliance and validation;
teaching; writing and editing; management and
administration; consultancy; data management; IT support;
HR; marketing; and logistics and sales.
Science graduates are also found in other industries,
including IT, engineering and technology companies, financial
CareersinthesciencesectorinIrelandofferrewarding
and interesting work, and there are a wealth of
opportunities to explore.
organisations and management consultancies. Many
graduates from non-science backgrounds are found working
A broad industry
in the science sector too.
Many people think of the pharmaceutical and chemical
sector when they think of careers in science in Ireland.
Employment trends
PharmaChemical Ireland represents a growing sector
Despite an overall decline in employment in 2009, some
responsible for exports totalling €44.1 billion in 2008 and
science areas such as pharmaceutical, medical devices,
accounts for 51 per cent of the GDP. According to Dr Gillen,
diagnostics and biotechnology have been performing well.
PharmaChemical Ireland: ‘It is encouraging that Irish
According to the FÁS National Skills Bulletin 2009: ‘At the
manufacturing plants are now looking to enhance their R&D
professional level, shortages continue to exist for qualified
operations. This will embed the companies in our economy
and experienced professionals in fourth-level research,
and secure the long-term future of this vibrant sector.’
development, clinical trials and in regulatory compliance.
The pharmaceutical sector in Ireland is a large employer
At entry level, shortages continue for lab technicians, junior
and appears to be in a good position to see out the
chemists, and prototyping/development technicians. Energy,
recession; people will always need medical care, ensuring
in particular renewable energy, is forecasted to become one
a continued demand for research, development and
of the key growth areas of the economy.’
6 |
Science 2010
Your science career
Entry routes vary depending on the career you wish to
when applying for a technical role. Less obviously, what are
pursue. The minimum requirement is a degree in science,
known as ‘soft skills’ are equally important. Most industries
but many science graduates will pursue postgraduate study
require those working in scientific areas to possess good
before entering employment. A masters degree is almost the
organisational and planning skills; communication and team
standard for working in a large proportion of scientific jobs.
working skills; IT skills; flexibility and adaptability; the ability
Relevant work experience will increase your chances
to work quickly, accurately, and independently; and logical
of a job offer. Many third-level institutions have links with
and critical thinking. This is true both when applying for jobs
industry to arrange in-service training and often students
and in your future career development. Of course, you will
will be offered full-time employment on the basis of a
need to be a wizard in your specialist area but you also need
successful period of work experience.
to grow as a person. This allows you to take advantage of
opportunities and challenges that you meet along the path
Finding a job
of your career.
Typically job vacancies will be advertised in the national
press, local press and scientific journals or through specialist
find out more
recruitment agencies or websites. However, many positions
are not advertised; as a result, good networking skills are
Job search
essential to target prospective employers with speculative
• Graduate jobs and advice – gradireland.com,
applications. While some companies will have specific
targetjobs.co.uk
closing dates for graduate programmes, many recruiters
• PharmaChemical Ireland – industry federation within
in the science sector fill their vacancies through ongoing
IBEC www.pharmachemicalireland.ie
recruitment.
• National Recruitment Federation (Ireland) – search for
recruitment consultants by sector and location
www.nrf.ie
The recruitment process
• Science Recruitment Ireland www.sri.ie
Recruitment processes vary according to the type and size
• Public Appointments Service www.publicjobs.ie
of employer you are interested in. Larger organisations
• EURAXESS Ireland – research network www.euraxess.ie
tend to hold a first round interview followed by a second
• The Recruitment & Employment Federation (UK)
round interview if successful in the first round. Smaller
www.rec.uk.com
organisations often have only one interview.
• Pharmajobs www.pharmajobs.co.uk
• Jobs in Science www.jobsinscience.com
A first round interview is an initial meeting and
• SRG (recruitment consultants) www.srg.co.uk
questions will be general, with the focus on your CV or
• Careerscene (biomedical jobs) www.careerscene.com
application form. A panel generally consists of two people:
• IDA Ireland (Industrial Development Agency) –
one representative from HR and one from the department
database of European and international companies
that you are applying to. More often than not, it could be
operating in Ireland www.idaireland.com
your future supervisor (eg a lab supervisor).
• www.science.ie Careers information
• www.science-ireland.ie Science Ireland
Second round interviews are also likely to be a panel of
two: a representative from HR and again somebody from
Newspapers
the area that you applied to, but of a more senior level than
Ireland
the first interview, eg a laboratory manager. The questions
• Irish Independent (Thursday & Sunday)
at this stage will be of a more technical nature focusing on
• The Irish Times (Friday)
your knowledge of the area and your work experience.
UK
Assessment centres are also used by some of the larger
• The Guardian (Tuesday)
• New Scientist (Thursday)
recruiters. These generally consist of an interview, a group
• Nature (Thursday)
observation exercise and an aptitude test.
• The Times Educational Supplement (Friday)
What employers want
Work experience
Because of the technical nature of most jobs in the science
• IAESTE – The International Association for the
sector, employers will specify the qualifications, skills and
Exchange of Students for Technical Experience
www.iaeste.ie
personal qualities that they require. Technical skills are
important and are obviously a minimum requirement
Science 2010 | 7
Areas of work
Areas of work
Whichever sector you choose to work in, a variety of different roles are available to you.
Research & development
European guidance documents. You could also be involved in
The focus of research and development (R&D) is mainly on
mainstreaming quality systems, such as risk assessments,
creating products, processes or commercial applications using
complaints, rejects, disposal, self-inspection, or batch reviews
innovative, multidisciplinary approaches. Current R&D activity
as required. You may assist the QA team in developing
in private industry in Ireland is focused on clean and green
strategies for the overall quality function of the company, too.
technologies, life sciences and pharmaceuticals, according to Dr
Martin Lyes, Research & Innovation Manager, Enterprise Ireland.
Clinical trials
There are many opportunities in the clinical trials industry in
Manufacturing
Ireland. All medicines must undergo clinical trials before they
Ireland continues to be a favoured manufacturing base for
are granted licences. Scientists are involved in setting up
leading biotechnology, medical device, pharmaceutical and
trials to ensure that new pharmaceutical and chemical
chemical companies. Scientists working in manufacturing
products are safe for use. You could be involved in lab-based
and production turn raw materials into finished products.
research, or using statistical methods to analyse and
This involves the design, development and implementation
interpret results, or managing and monitoring trials.
of systems and procedures and the planning and control of
scientific equipment to ensure that products are of specified
Other job roles
quality. You could also be involved in process development,
Other jobs roles you may consider include:
which entails improving existing manufacturing processes.
Chemical development engineer
Quality assurance and control
A chemical development engineer creates and develops
Quality assurance (QA) or quality control (QC) involves ensuring
industrial processes and plants to make products such as
that products are manufactured to a high quality in accordance
chemicals, pharmaceuticals and fuels.
with the recommended standards, and involves analysing raw
materials, intermediates and the finished product. Quality is
Production engineer
important at all stages of production, from the initial stages
A production engineer designs, implements, monitors and
when raw materials are received to ensuring that standards are
maintains manufacturing processes to achieve the most
met during the production phase, and testing and monitoring
efficient, cost-effective and high-quality production possible.
the product at the completion stage to ensure that it meets
the required standard. You could be involved in monitoring
Process development engineer
environmental factors like water and air quality, as well as
Process development engineers aim to optimise the performance
checking and testing raw materials and products in the lab.
of manufacturing systems by improving the quality of the
product, increasing production capacity and reducing costs.
Regulatory affairs
Opportunities for regulatory affairs officers, managers and
Microbiologist
consultants are found in the pharmaceutical, chemical, clinical
Microbiologists study microbes, including bacteria, viruses,
research, medical device and biotechnology industries.
fungi, algae and protozoa. Areas
There will always be opportunities in this area, as companies
of specialism include: basic
IN THIS SECTION
must comply with legal standards. The US Food and Drug
research; medicine; healthcare;
Pharmachemical ......9
Administration (FDA) continues to rate Irish manufacturers in
food; industry, such as
Food industry ..........10
Environment ............11
the pharmachemical sector positively in terms of regulatory
pharmaceuticals, toiletries and
Public sector ............12
compliance. You could be involved in ensuring regulatory
biotechnology, agriculture and
Alternative careers..13
compliance is adhered to for the appropriate Irish and
the environment.
8 |
Science 2010
Areas of work
Pharmachemical industry
This is a large sector offering numerous career opportunities.
Opportunitiesinthepharmaceutical,biotechnology themedicineworkssafelyandeffectively.Itisfirsttested
and medical device industries are diverse and many,
on animals before moving on to ‘Phase One’ trials on
offering a range of excellent career options.
human beings.
Manufacturing the medicine involves making the
Pharmaceutical
chemical compound and then mixing it with other
Drug discovery is the starting point for a new medicine.
substances to make a tablet, cream or aerosol that
Because many diseases cannot yet be cured, or because
enables patients to take it. Safety and quality assurance
existing treatment may cause unwanted side effects, new
is paramount, demanding constant vigilance and careful
medicines that work in different ways are constantly being
control at every step. Ireland continues to have an excellent
sought. Chemists, biologists, pharmacologists, IT specialists
reputation for quality. Scientists, engineers, IT specialists and
and colleagues from a variety of other science disciplines
many others are involved at both stages. There will always be
work in teams to try to identify chemical compounds that
opportunities for professionals in the areas of health and
might eventually become a medicine.
safety, validation, regulatory affairs and compliance.
Drug development is the next phase. Once a chemical
compound has been found that could possibly work to treat
Biotechnology
the target disease, a variety of tests must be carried out to
Biotechnology graduates are employed in many industries
ensure that the compound can be made on a viable scale,
including pharmaceutical, medical technologies, research
formulated into a medicine and given to patients without
organisations (academic or industrial), food processing,
causing them harm. Clinical trials are important to ensure
drinks manufacturers and more. Within the medical
technologies sector there are specialties such as
cardiovascular, diagnostics and ophthalmic, along with
businesses manufacturing medical equipment and
hospital products.
Roles for biotechnology graduates include quality
assurance and quality control technicians, biochemists,
analytical chemists, microbiologists and process
engineers. Graduates with degrees in biotechnology,
microbiology, chemistry or biochemistry are always in
demand in this sector.
Medical devices
Medical devices are vast in number, and include everything
from wheelchairs and beds, to cardiac stents and MRI
scanners. Sectors in the industry include cardiovascular,
orthopaedics, diagnostics and ophthalmics, while other
key sub-sectors include contract manufacturing, medical
equipment, filtration, and hospital products.
Job roles in the medical device industry are wide ranging.
They include product design engineering, production and
manufacturing, sales and marketing, quality assurance and
quality control, regulatory and legal affairs, and R&D.
The medical device industry is a sizeable employer with
diverse career opportunities. Medical device manufacturing
and support companies are predominantly located in the
Midlands, west and north-west areas.
Science 2010 | 9
Areas of work
Food industry
The food industry is a dynamic and fast-paced sector with good promotional prospects.
Thereisadiverserangeofjobsopentoyouinthefood thestartoftheprocessrightthroughtofinish.Itisessential
industry, from the scientific and technological to the
that candidates have a methodical approach to their work
creative. A lot more work goes into the manufacturing
and a good eye for detail.
of food than meets the eye: we are all familiar with the end
product but we may not be as familiar with the processes
Research and product development
which take place before the final product is produced. The
This involves producing new products to a high standard of
main areas of opportunity include product development, food
quality that can be kept fresh and safe until they reach the
technology, quality assurance and R&D.
consumer. It is also important to maintain competitiveness
within the industry. Food scientists are involved in research at
Food technology and product development
various levels both in private companies and in public research
Food technologists plan the manufacture of food and drink
facilities (including universities). Opportunities also exist in
products. Working on ingredients and technologies that lead
food companies and food research institutes. Graduates with
to the development of new recipes is a key part of the role.
a primary degree or a masters mostly work in positions as
Conducting experiments, designing processes and
research technologists while those with a PhD typically work
machinery are also central.
as project leaders, research project coordinators, research
A food related degree is advantageous but degrees in
directors or university professors.
microbiology, biochemistry, nutrition, and applied chemistry
Opportunities are available in organisations such as
are also extremely beneficial. Applied science, mathematical
beverage companies, canning plants, dairy companies,
science and physical sciences are also recognised to gain entry
confectionery companies, cereal and grain companies, meat
to this area.
producing firms, food manufacturing firms, flavour and
fragrance companies, food equipment companies and frozen
Quality assurance
foods companies.
Food safety is of paramount importance. Those involved in
There are also opportunities in the public sector, for
quality assurance ensure that the product meets the highest
example in government departments, the Food Safety
standards. This involves checking and double checking from
Authority of Ireland and Teagasc.
10 |
Science 2010
Areas of work
Environmental science
There is a wide range of career opportunities for scientists with an interest in the environment.
Managementoftheenvironmentisassuming
increasing importance, as indicated by
government initiatives in pollution control,
conservation and environmental impact assessment at
both national and EU level. Career opportunities exist for
graduates with a degree in environmental science and
related disciplines such as chemical, biomedical and
pharmaceutical sciences.
Earth and life scientists are involved in a wide variety of
environmentally based careers which draw upon the skills
of field work, observational methods, laboratory techniques
and computer based studies. For example, scientists in the
laboratory may analyse water pollution caused by industry
and agriculture, testing water samples to find the type,
concentration and source of the pollution.
The main areas of environmental science include climate
change, the environment and health, the protection of
nature and biodiversity, resource management and waste
management. The majority of opportunities lie in the areas
of environmental management and conservation and
with clients in industry, business, agriculture, construction
environmental protection and control.
or engineering (in both the public and private sectors).
There is a growing demand in industry, business
and state agencies for graduates in the environmental
State organisations with environmental
sciences. Career opportunities are available with a range
responsibilities
of employers, including public sector employers, industry
In the ROI, these include organisations such as:
and manufacturing, energy production companies,
• the Heritage Council
environmental protection industries, transport companies
• Teagasc
and university-linked research departments/institutes.
• the Health & Safety Authority
• the Environmental Protection Agency
Local authorities
• the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local
Job roles in local authorities are in the areas of environmental
Government
management and control, waste management and
• the Marine Institute
operations, drainage and water. Producing and adhering
• Coillte Teoranta.
to a strategic environmental assessment statement is also
a key activity.
In Northern Ireland, these include:
• the Department of the Environment
Environmental consultancies
• the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Working for an environmental consultancy involves
• the Northern Ireland Environment Agency
environmental auditing, working on environmental impact
• the Health & Safety Executive in Northern Ireland.
assessments and statements, and developing
These employers require graduates with a scientific
environmentally sustainable solutions. This could cover
understanding of environmental problems along with the
areas such as renewable energies; environmental training
technical skills to deal with these problems and an
and safety; ecological surveys of terrestrial, aquatic, air, flora,
understanding of the managerial aspects of environmental
fauna and noise; and consultative advice on integrating
control. See page 12 for more information about working
environmental policies in all sectors. You could be working
in the public sector.
Science 2010 | 11
Areas of work
Public sector
Working in the public sector offers a wide choice of careers.
Thereisawiderangeofcareerstochoosefrominthe investigation.Workbythelaboratoryiscarriedoutmainly
public sector, which is made up of local government
for the Gardai and through them for the courts. The
(local authorities) and the civil service. Public sector
laboratory is divided into four sections: Biology (crimes
employers include public analyst laboratories, forensic
against the person, eg sexual assault and murder),
science laboratories, state laboratories, local authorities
Chemistry (mainly crime against property), DNA (eg genetic
and environmental and health agencies.
fingerprinting) and Drugs/Toxicology (analysis of substances
In the Republic of Ireland, you should apply for civil
thought to contravene the Misuse of Drugs Act). All staff
service jobs through the Public Appointments Service
employed are civil servants. Vacancies are advertised in the
(www.publicjobs.ie) and in Northern Ireland through
national papers and recruitment is by competitive interview.
www.nicsrecruitment.gov.uk.
The equivalent in Northern Ireland is Forensic Science
Specialist scientific posts are available within the
Northern Ireland (www.fsni.gov.uk), although job
Northern Ireland Civil Service. Examples are Scientific Officer
opportunities are rare.
– Biometrics and Higher Scientific Officer – Marine Biology.
These posts will require a specific degree, sometimes at
Laboratory work
postgraduate level. Most of the laboratories are situated
The State Laboratory provides a comprehensive analytical
within the Greater Belfast area. Jobs are also available with
and advisory service to ROI government departments and
the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
offices, enabling them to implement and formulate the
(www.dardni.gov.uk), in the NI Environment Agency
technical aspects of national and EU legislation. The State
(www.ni-environment.gov.uk) and in the Health and Safety
Laboratory is divided into 12 sections: Agriculture, Animal
Executive for Northern Ireland (www.hseni.gov.uk).
Feedstuffs, Molecular Biology/Microbiology, Corporate
Services, Environmental Heritage and Consumer Protection,
Forensic science
Customs, Human Toxicology, Revenue-Excise, Quality
The Forensic Science Laboratory is part of the Republic of
Assurance, Veterinary Toxicology and Information
Ireland’s Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform
Technology.
and provides a scientific analytical service in criminal
Health service roles
The Health Service Executive (HSE) is responsible for
providing Health and Personal Social Services for everyone
living in the Republic of Ireland. Career opportunities exist in
the Science Laboratory for analytical chemists, biochemists,
medical scientists, pathology technicians and physicists. All
positions are advertised on www.careersinhealthcare.ie and
www.hospitaljobs.ie, as well as in the national and local
press each week. In Northern Ireland, lab work can be
available for biomedical scientists in hospitals.
Local authorities
A career in local government offers opportunities with
excellent benefits and career progression. Each authority
has its own personnel department which looks after all
local recruitment and selection processes. Applications
can be made by contacting each local authority directly.
See the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local
Government website (www.environ.ie) for contact details
of local authorities.
12 |
Science 2010
Areas of work
Alternative careers
Not every science graduate wants to work in a lab. The good news is there are plenty of alternatives.
Alternative job roles
Working in a laboratory is not for everybody. The
attractiveness of having a science degree is that there is
an array of diverse and exciting opportunities out there that
do not involve working in the lab.
Regulatory affairs
It is crucial that all pharmaceutical, medical device,
veterinary and cosmetic products are registered before
they can be marketed for sale. Working in regulatory affairs
involves the preparation of scientific and technical
information to support approval globally, and keeping
abreast of changes in legislation and informing colleagues
accordingly. Job roles include:
• regulatory affairs specialist/manager
• quality and regulatory affairs engineer
• research scientist
• process development chemist
Sales and marketing
This involves informing physicians and patients about new
medicines that come onto the market. It includes visiting
training manuals and clinical studies. A good knowledge of
hospitals and GPs’ surgeries, informing them of new drugs
physiology and anatomy is essential along with good writing
coming onto the market and ultimately selling the products.
and word-processing skills, and attention to detail.
Jobs in the area include:
• marketing manager
Scientific publishing
• medical sales representative
If you have a flair for writing and a strong scientific
• hospital sales representative
background, then scientific publishing could be the career
for you. There are several job roles involved in this area
Patents
ranging from editorial assistant to marketing executive.
Patent examiners assess applications for patents, which are
granted to inventors, giving them the right to stop others
Teaching
using, selling or making their inventions.
If you enjoy science and would like to communicate your
A good honours degree in science is essential along with
knowledge to the next generation, then a career in teaching
relevant industrial experience which need not necessarily
may be for you. Excellent organisational and administrative
relate to patents and documentation. While opportunities
skills are also very important.
in Ireland are limited, the UK patent office and the European
patent office should be explored. For the latter, fluency in
Banking and finance
two languages is required: English and either German or
Considerable numbers of science graduates pursue careers
French (a working knowledge of a third is preferred).
in the banking and finance area, particularly those who
graduate from the more numerate disciplines such as
Medical writing
physics, chemistry and mathematics. Accountancy is also
Medical writers are mainly employed by pharmaceutical
an area where science graduates pursue very successful
and biotechnology firms. The work involves writing reports,
careers. See gradireland Finance for further information
which include drug registration, promotional literature,
on this career choice.
Science 2010 | 13
People at work
My science career
Science offers a huge range of career opportunities. Two graduates share their experiences.
‘Testing new products’
‘A varied technical role’
Name Ciaran Dawdry
Name Aine Ruddy
Job Quality Control Analyst
Job Associate Manufacturing
Engineer
Employer Takeda Ireland Ltd
Employer Boston Scientific
Education BSc Physical and Life
Corporation
Sciences, Dublin Institute of
Technology (2007)
Education BSc (2003) and PhD
(2007) Chemical Engineering,
Queen’s University Belfast
I work for a pharmaceutical company in the finished
I enjoyed maths and science at school and became
goods department, dealing with drugs for life-altering
interested in the practical applications of these subjects,
conditions like insomnia, diabetes and hypertension.
so I went on to study engineering at university. I always
I have been working here since February 2008.
wanted a hands-on engineering role, and when I
attended a careers event at university I was impressed
My role
by my current employer’s graduate development
My job is to carry out various chemical tests on
programme. After joining the scheme I completed
finished products, such as identifying different
job rotations in the Manufacturing and Research
active pharmaceutical ingredients and checking for
& Development departments.
contamination. These involve using different tests and
instrumentation including UV, dissolutions testers and
Solving problems on the line
disintegrators. Over a six-week period I do six main tests.
I work for a medical device manufacturer where I enjoy
One week I might work on related substances, analysing
a very technical role. On a day-to-day basis I deal with
contaminants in samples using high-performance liquid
material problems on the polymer processing lines.
chromatography (HPLC). The next week I could be looking
I work from 8.00 am to 5.30 pm Monday to Thursday
after content uniformity of the samples using the UV.
and finish at 1.00 pm on a Friday, which is great. My work
I’ll also receive ongoing training for new products
is very varied; I could be on the manufacturing floor
and schemes within the company, such as our Lean Lab
conducting trials, or at my desk doing root cause analysis
initiative, which is all about eliminating inefficiencies
or report writing. I also travel frequently to various sites
and non value-added activities in the lab. In the future,
in the USA. Recently I worked on a problem where I ran
I might look into further study and I’d also like to get
investigations in Galway and then flew to Boston to
into environmental analysing, but at the moment I’m
continue trials and analysis before finding the solution.
enjoying getting a good grounding in pharmaceutical
Top tips
work.
I studied for my PhD before starting work, but if you are
Advice for graduates
torn between postgraduate study and an exciting job
It can take a while to get that first job – it took me
offer, speak to your prospective employer as they may
about six months – but it’s important to stick it out and
support you through further education. Bear in mind that
not get disheartened. After college I worked for an active
a first job isn’t for ever so don’t be afraid to relocate or take
pharmaceutical ingredient (API) plant in Cork, which was
a role in a different engineering discipline – you may be
useful experience in communicating with people from
pleasantly surprised. Also ensure you get involved to make
a pharmaceutical background. Get any relevant work
the most of your early career: I chair a society that
experience you can.
organises technical and social events for the Galway site.
14 |
Science 2010
Professional development
Training and career development
Further study and professional qualifications can improve your long-term career prospects.
Obtaininganundergraduatedegreeisa
of research involved (leading to your thesis), again furnishing
fantastic achievement. However, on its own an
you with additional skills.
undergraduate degree may not suffice for career
There are two routes to a research degree in the sciences:
advancement. Reaching a glass ceiling is often common
an MSc or a PhD (masters students can in most cases
for degree holders, but with further study and professional
upgrade to PhD level). You will need to develop a research
qualifications, this can be overcome. The recent Forfás
proposal and identify a suitable supervisor.
Business Expenditure on R&D report stated that ‘in 2007,
A PhD is valued by many employers but is particularly
61 per cent of enterprises with PhD researchers employed
relevant if you aspire to a career in academic research and
indicated that they were very likely or quite likely to increase
teaching. During this time you will learn how to publish
the number of PhD researchers employed over the period
components of your research and will make contacts with
2008 to 2013’.
academics in your discipline. You will also have the chance
to gain some teaching experience, which is essential when
Postgraduate study
it comes to applying for an academic post.
The more qualifications you have, the higher your ceiling of
However, there are many other careers for which
opportunity will be. However, having qualifications without
a research degree is desirable or essential, for example,
work experience can make it very difficult to enter the job
working as a scientific researcher for a pharmaceutical
market so it is important to get the balance right.
company, or commissioning editor for a specialist academic
Postgraduate study is an opportunity for you to explore
journal. In some very high-tech areas, such as medical
topics in greater depth. Taught programmes are useful
research, a postgraduate research qualification is often
to gain a specialised knowledge of your chosen area of
considered mandatory. You will also find that the skills you
study plus many transferable skills. Employers often seek
acquire during your research will equip you well for many
graduates with specialist knowledge of an area. Taught
other fields of work and could give you a valuable edge in
programmes should not be underestimated, as they
the employment market.
are completed in a much shorter time than a research
See postgradireland.com/science for more information
programme. For a taught masters, there is also an element
about postgraduate study.
Science 2010 | 15
Professional develoment
University-linked institutes
There has been significant investment
majority work in collaboration with
Institute, both at NUI Galway, and the
in third-level institutions to promote
other institutes. Many opportunities
Urban Institute at UCD), bioscience
and develop high quality research
exist within these institutes across a
and biomedical (eg the Biosciences
capabilities. University-linked
wide range of disciplines.
Institute at UCC and the Institute of
research institutes provide support
Various university-linked
Immunology at NUI Maynooth), and
for researchers and teams within
institutes exist within the areas of
physical sciences and technology
educational institutions. Co-operation
environmental and natural resources
(eg the Materials and Surface Science
between researchers and teams
(eg the Environmental Change
Institute at the University of Limerick
within institutes is encouraged, as is
Institute and the Marine Science
and the National Centre for Sensor
inter-institutional co-operation: the
Research Programme – Martin Ryan
Research at DCU).
Professional bodies
who wish to be effective at strategic level, and will provide
Once you are in employment, joining a professional body will
an invaluable opportunity to develop your career. The MBA
enhance your career prospects by providing the opportunity
is an excellent qualification which will improve your chances
for Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Joining
of success, whether you decide to start up your own
such a body will give you access to courses and professional
business or to be employed by somebody else.
qualifications that are delivered by experts trained to a
very high standard. Courses are delivered through part-time
and distance learning modes, which allow you to remain
find out more
in employment and accelerate up the career ladder at the
same time. Another advantage of joining a professional body
Professional bodies
is access to vast resources of information through monthly
• Institute of Physics in Ireland www.iopireland.org
magazines, publications and libraries.
• The Institute of Chemistry of Ireland
When starting out on your career, the ability to build up
www.chemistryireland.org
a network of contacts is of utmost importance and this is
• Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) www.ibms.org
one of the huge advantages of joining a professional body.
• The Academy of Medical Laboratory Science
Becoming a member of a professional body will give you
www.amls.ie
the stamp of approval to show that you possess the relevant
• Society of Biology www.societyofbiology.org
• Royal Society of Chemistry www.rsc.org
level of academic achievement, skills and experience to
• Society for General Microbiology www.sgm.ac.uk
operate effectively in your chosen career area.
• Society for Applied Microbiology www.sfam.org.uk
• The Royal Pharmaceutical Society www.rpsgb.org.uk
Moving into management
• IDA Ireland (Industrial Development Agency) –
It is not uncommon for graduates having gained many years’
database of European and international companies
experience in their specialist area of science to enhance their
operating in Ireland www.idaireland.com
• www.science.ie Careers information
career further by moving into management positions. It is
advisable to get several years’ work experience before
Research funding
contemplating a qualification in management. At this point
• Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering and
you will have discovered the positive and negative points
Technology www.ircset.ie
of working in your chosen field, as well as career choices
• Health Research Board www.hrb.ie
open to you. You may be lucky to get some exposure to the
• Marine Institute www.marine.ie
business and entrepreneurial aspects of little projects that
• Environmental Protection Agency www.epa.ie
• Teagasc www.teagasc.ie
spark an interest in business and management.
• Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
Opportunities for science graduates with some work
www.epsrc.ac.uk
experience include management consultancy, venture
• Science Foundation Ireland www.sfi.ie
capital, investment banking and business development. The
Masters in Business Administration (MBA) will benefit those
16 |
Science 2010
