Being a scientist is your aim, isn't it? Who doesn't want to work in prestigious organizations, such as ISRO and NASA? And, even when you are a science enthusiast.
Most people believe that scientists like Einstein and Newton are the only scientists one has to dream of being.
That is not the case. You don't have to be either of them how to become a scientist. You can go beyond stereotypes and conduct studies, analysis, and trials on practically anything in today's world.
But, what should you do and how should you do to achieve this dream of yours. All your answers to these questions are stored in this blog.
Let's check it out.
How To Become A Scientist
Who is a scientist?
A scientist is a person who studies and collects data to advance knowledge in a specific field. Scientists can generate hypotheses, test them with statistical data, and draw convictions based on the findings.
You can say that scientists find as well as predict the past, present, and future of a particular subject.
Scientists are needed almost everywhere and in every industry. Thus being one of them can surely build your career.
How to Become a Scientist?
Before becoming a scientist, first, recognize what kind of scientist you wish to be. Let's say:
Whatever your choice of interest is, you can move ahead with your studies by taking specific specializations.
Next, you can go for some internships in or out of your college. And the rest phase of being a scientist is explained in the next paras. Continue Scrolling.
Steps on How to Become a Scientist in India
The best time to begin your scientist dream is right after your 10th standard. Pick your subject of interest, notably science, and limit it to a particular specialisation.
As soon as you finish your high school board examinations, you must decide between PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Maths) and PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) as the first leg of the procedure.
If you want to be a scientist, you need to be strong at numbers. Why? It's because research involves statistics. Thus, expertise in mathematics is essential.
Specialise in your field
Have you completed your 12th by taking any of these options mentioned above? So, it's time for your bachelor's now. Choose from a variety of bachelor's degrees, including:
You have certain other professional degrees such as B.Tech, B.Sc, B.Pharma, and others.
Pursue higher qualification
Completing your bachelor's is not enough to become a scientist. Don't get annoyed as you have to achieve your dreams. And that needs further education.
So, after your degree, you must pursue masters and doctoral degrees. This will broaden your knowledge base for becoming a scientist.
How to Become a Scientist in India?
A scientist does not imply the one who has to put on a lab coat as well as linger over chemicals while mixing them. Well, it's way beyond that.
When you are hoping to become a scientist in India, then you can follow any of the following points to fulfill your dreams:
- Go for the usual route of earning a bachelor's degree, a master's degree, and then a Ph.D.
- Complete an M.Phil, following an M.Sc. or M.S qualification, and then make your way to Ph.D.
To your knowledge, the duration of the M.Phil program is only 12 to 24 months. However, it is primarily reliant on research. - Engineering Sciences and Technology are other options for becoming a scientist. A bachelor in Technology degree is required for this.
This curriculum is four years long. After that, you can pursue a two-year Masters in Technology. - You can also enrol in a combined program after completing your 12th grade. Following your 12th grade, you can begin an Integrated Masters's programme.
Do you wish to be a Medical Scientist in India? Then, you should study biology and undertake experiments in that discipline.
And to become a Data scientist in India, you should pursue degrees in math's and stats.
Career Opportunities for Scientist
The need for scientists is continuously soaring. And, you must be aware of that. Science has penetrated nearly every aspect of our lives.
Moreover, technological advances act as a cherry on the cake. Thus, numerous public and private companies employ scientists in large numbers.
Let's check out some of the firms in India that hire skilled scientists:
- Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO)
- Indian Association for Cultivation of Science (IACS)
- Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR)
- Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES)
- Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM)
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)
- Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR)
- Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and more.
Skills to be Developed for Becoming a Scientist
You can't be an ideal scientist if you don't have specific skills. Yes! A renowned scientist must have these capabilities:
- Good research qualities.
- Competent Knowledge.
- Abilities to make original discoveries.
Don't panic if you are not confident enough to have these skills. Here are some behaviours you should develop in your everyday life to boost such talents.
- Enhance your writing - A scientist needs to publish his/her research findings. As a result, extraordinary writing skills are required in this sector.
- Have a good depth of knowledge - It is crucial for students seeking to be scientists to keep updated in their fields of study.
Thus, you must examine as many scientific publications as possible in order to remain up-to-date on your subject. - Always stay curious - Curiosity is a must-needed attitude among scientists worldwide. So, keep an open mind regarding the world and your surroundings.
Remember that you can come out with a great discovery if you are curious about what is going on around you and why it is so. - Get a Mentor - Everyone needs a mentor, and so a scientist. Consequently, it is critical to find a teacher who can lead you through research, possibilities, and the overall journey.
And, if you have this routine, none can stop you in your scientist journey.
Qualifications to Become a Scientist
The basic qualifications for being a scientist are nothing more than you have learnt in the above paras. So, let's bullet it down.
- You need to possess a bachelor's degree from a reputable college or university.
- You must have completed your graduation in the area of science.
- You must score at least 60 percent on your bachelors.
- You should have a master's degree with a minimum of 65 percent.
- A doctorate can also be beneficial.
Types of Scientists
- Agronomist
- Cytologist
- Ethologist
- Botanist
- Epidemiologist
- Microbiologist
- Geologist
- Meteorologist
- Marine Biologist
- Paleontologist
- Seismologist
Books and Study Material to Become a Scientist
A scientist must have in-depth knowledge of various scientific principles, theories, etc. Yes, you must be conscious of that. However, your degrees won't help you gain such knowledge.
You have read other books for such mastery. Plus, you must be a voracious learner who seizes any learning chance in your path.
Here is a selection of relevant publications that you can begin with to help you with your knowledge:
- Cell Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Evolution and Ecology by P S Verma.
- The Elegant Universe by Brian Greene.
- Encyclopedia of Space Science and Technology by Maureen Salkin.
- NASA’s Scientist Astronauts by Shayler David and Colin Burgess.
- The Story of Earth by Robert M. Hazen
- Measuring Behaviour by Patrick Bateson and Paul Martin
- Chasing New Horizons by David Greenspoon.
- The Pleasure of Finding Things Out by Richard P. Feynman.
- The Greatest Show on Earth by Richard Dawkins.
Entrance Examination
The following is a list of common admission tests in India that one should take to become a scientist:
Conclusion
You must have got enough knowledge to become a scientist, notably in India. So when are you beginning to chase your dream?
How to become a scientist, you need loads of knowledge and education, and for that, you have to start as soon as possible.
However, even if you become a professional, you still have to read, write and learn to grow. Moreover, you should not take heaps of stress on this journey as that would hamper your health.
So, make sure you give a good rest to your body timely. All the Best and have an incredible career ahead!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How do I start my career as a scientist?
To begin your career as a Scientist, you have to start with the basics in your college. Choose a degree specialized in science and the subjects as per your interest.
Then, get some internships, earn some skills, and go for higher studies.
Q2. How long does it take to become a scientist?
In India, becoming a scientist will demand about 4-5 years. However, if you are planning to go abroad then you have to google for the particular country you wish to move to.
Generally, it’s a matter of 5 to 7 years to become a scientist outside India.
Q3. Is it hard to become a scientist?
Nothing is hard if it's of your interest. Therefore, if becoming a scientist is your dream, then you will enjoy the journey.
Well, the exams may be challenging, but all you have to think about is the end result.
Q4. Which degree is best for scientists?
There are various degrees to become a scientist. All you have to recognize is what kind of scientist you want to be and choose a degree accordingly.
For example, if you want to be a botanist, you must go for Bachelors in Botany.