Dr Alison Hodge MBE  Sydenham 1958 - 1972

A Career in Scientific Research

How you entered your profession
My career in scientific research started in a fairly typical way - science A levels (physics chemistry, pure maths and applied maths), an undergraduate degree in physics and then a full time PhD. After a further year continuing my PhD work, I broadened my horizons through a 1 year post in a research institute in France. The prospect of further short term contracts was not attractive so the total absence of permanent positions in UK universities at the time, led me to take a post in an organisation now called QinetiQ, where I have held a variety of technical and managerial roles.  

Although this looks structured in retrospect, I had no plan for this precise course! Clearly I recognised my interests and have taken opportunities that have arisen.  Who knows what may follow!

How you can progress in the profession
Most scientists start their careers in lab based work and I was no exception. Career progression is very much a matter of choice. Some individuals will continue undertaking their own research work, typically leading teams of individuals as they gain experience. Nowadays progression almost inevitably leads to taking responsibility for managing research projects. This usually entails bidding for the money to undertake the research work, whether this is from the company that employs the research workers, or from outside bodies such as government grant awarding bodies, charities (especially for medical and biological sciences) or other companies wishing to commission research work. Plenty of opportunities exist to work for government, companies, universities, research institutes, either closely involved in the research itself, in managing research programmes or more indirectly in roles that require a good knowledge of a scientific or engineering discipline. There is now an increasing demand for capable numerate people in a whole range of activities, many of them with little direct connection with scientific research! 

A general outline of what the job entails day to day
The picture of a white-coated scientist surrounded by test tubes in a laboratory, is not typical of many research scientists. Labs are very varied; many include highly specialised equipment and facilities, most of it now supplemented by computing in some form. Designing, building and operating equipment is often an integral part of scientists daily work. Scientists generally work as part of a team, where individuals have their own specialism and responsibilities. Keeping abreast of what is happening in ones discipline, planning work, writing reports, presenting work to colleagues in ones own organisation or externally at conferences, are everyday activities. Conferences are typically international so many scientists travel worldwide (probably far more than many of our linguist colleagues!)  Much scientific work is now done for someone who is paying for the results, so it is important to ensure that the customer receives what they expected. Scientists may also become involved in committee and project work with a wide range of organisations because of their specialist expertise, for example as government advisers or expert witnesses in court.

Some general advice to those members contemplating a career in this professional field
Do not limit your vision of scientific research to what you perhaps imagine! International travel, working with people, talking to children (our future scientists and engineers), advising politicians and business people, are all typical activities for many engineers and scientists. Increasingly scientists and engineers are more aware and active in the impact of their work on society and the environment. There are many opportunities to move between employers dependent on your personal circumstances and interests. Scientific work may be thought of as very precise, well defined and with clearly defined answers. However, research also requires use of imagination and creativity; invention and innovation are all part of a scientists remit!

We do offer work experience at QinetiQ but we prefer this to be for extended periods (eg at 3 months or preferably more) post Alevel. I am happy to be contacted via Minerva Network Development Office for careers advice.