More third and fourth level science, technology, education and mathematics graduates are essential in Ireland than ever before, according to the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN). We need these graduates today and well into the future in order to:

• Deal  with the increasingly complex demands of the global economy, including the proliferation of technologies and growth of internationally traded services and manufacturing services
• Attract high value-added investment and highly skilled job creation
• Develop the research base which provides opportunities for the development of new products, services and ideas
• Increase the number of better quality and better paid jobs in the economy
• Meet the continuing strong demand for specific technical and business skills – including for engineers with strong skills and experience

Science, engineering and technology offer attractive career paths for students, and the National Skills Strategy has highlighted how all occupations are becoming more knowledge-based.

The Industrial Development Agency’s announcements in 2008/2009 also show a distinct shift in the nature of foreign direct investment towards research, development and innovation activities, global business services, and expanding investments by existing multinationals in higher value-added activities.

For example:

• IBM announced the establishment of its Global Centre of Excellence for Water Management in Dublin, through the development of green data-centre technologies
• AON, a provider of risk management services, insurance and reinsurance brokerage chose Dublin as its location for a global innovation centre with the creation of 100 jobs
• Facebook established its international HQ  in Dublin
• Alcon, a leading eye care company, announced a €21 million expansion in Cork, with 186 new jobs
• Microsoft expanded its Irish operations with a €360 million investment in a strategic data centre
• PayPal announced a €15 million investment in a new European Centre for Operational Excellence in Dublin
• Hewlett Packard announced an €18m expansion of its Global Service Desk Operation, with 500 to 1,000 new jobs in Leixlip, Co Kildare
• Big Fish Games Inc established its European HQ in Cork with100 jobs

Learn more

From medical devices to renewable energy, read about the sectors where STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) skills will be needed.

The science industry is still one of the most thriving and resilient sectors in Ireland.  It encompasses a broad range of areas including the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, clinical trials, environmental, food and agricultural industries.
Careers in science are very diverse and are certainly not limited to the traditional concept of a laboratory-based role.
Some other areas to consider include microelectronics, the semiconductor industry and the emerging energy sector of renewable energy (wind, ocean, solar).

Moving from a non-science job

If you are thinking of moving into the science sector from a non-science job, the job opportunities in science which require a science or engineering qualification include, but are not limited to:

• Quality control
• Quality assurance
• Microbiology
• R&D
• Engineering
• Regulatory affairs
• Clinical operations
• Environmental health and safety

Most positions require third-level education in science, engineering or related fields.  A minimum qualification is a certificate, but companies require a degree level qualification for certain roles.  Some research positions require an MSc or PhD, but this is not always the case.

If you are working, check the part-time study options.  Many courses have a part-time equivalent to their full-time versions.

Some organisations do offer positions such as junior production level roles without a qualification.  This can give an opportunity for entry-level candidates to pursue a degree course at night.  If you are not working, try and find a course that offers a work placement in industry as part of the course.

Practical experience is invaluable.  Failing this try and arrange some work experience yourself.

Some areas overlap between the non-science and science sectors, including administration, finance, HR, supply chain and logistics and IT.  However, while it may be possible to change industry in these areas, it is a significant advantage to have previous science industry experience.

Moving within the science sector

People frequently change areas within the science sector.  A common move is to go from research in a lab environment to a more administrative project management role or vice versa.
Bear in mind that not all laboratory-based roles include bench testing – and scientists don’t just work in industry.
Research positions in third-level colleges permit scientists to pursue a rewarding and challenging career.  Science Foundation Ireland CSETs (Centres for Science, Engineering and Technology) and universities’ Centres of Excellence can provide great research opportunities.
Technology innovation centres such as DIT Hothouse and others in third-level colleges also provide opportunities to commercialise inventions and ideas and set up campus companies.
If you are considering moving into another area within the science industry, bear in mind that:

• This new career direction may require further education, so look into the courses that will assist that transition
• You may also need practical experience within the new area before making the full move.  Talk to colleagues currently working in the area and get their advice.  Where possible, volunteer to assist on projects, which will add valuable relevant experience onto your CV

If you would like to discuss science career options in more detail, contact Judith, Aileen or Jenny at CPL Science, www.cplscience.ie or call 01 614 6000.