10 alternative science careers

Author
Darcy Nathan, Editor
Posted
July, 2025
View all science and pharmaceutical jobs

Whether it's inspiring the next generation of scientists by sharing your knowledge in schools or shaping the future of science by working on policies - there is a science career out there for you

Many people associate science graduates primarily with research, but your expertise extends far beyond these areas. Whether your interests lie in law, education, or policy, here are 10 exciting career paths that go beyond the typical lab environment.

Communication and journalism

Science writer

If writing interests you, careers in science or technical writing can lead to exciting opportunities. Covering breakthroughs, drafting product specifications, or writing for publications like the New Scientist can be rewarding.Ìý

A background in science or English forms a solid foundation, while a Masters degree in science communication or journalism can enhance your prospects, although it is not always mandatory. Search for postgraduate courses in publishing.Ìý

For more information, see our science writer job profile.Ìý

Scientific publisherÌý

For those who prefer managing and editing, working as a scientific publisher involves ensuring the accuracy and clarity of cutting-edge research published in academic journals. This role suits individuals with strong critical thinking and research skills.Ìý

A science degree is essential, and a PhD is often preferred for specialised editorial positions requiring subject expertise. Discover how to get into publishing.Ìý

  • Average salary - £33,229Ìý
  • Employers - CGP Books, , , TPP

Defence

Materials engineer

Applying laboratory techniques and analytical methods, professionals in materials science help develop advanced materials such as lightweight armour and heat-resistant alloys. These innovations enhance military equipment performance under extreme conditions.Ìý

Degrees in materials science, chemistry, or physics are essential, with advanced qualifications or a PhD often considered an asset. Search for postgraduate courses in materials science.Ìý

For more information aboutÌý responsibilities, see our materials engineer job profile.Ìý

Defence scientist

Using scientific expertise, professionals in this field contribute to the design and testing of advanced technologies - from radar systems to missile guidance and secure communications - that play a vital role in supporting national security.Ìý

A degree in science or engineering is essential, with employers often favouring candidates who have Masters or specialised training in materials science, cybersecurity, or defence technology. Search for postgraduate courses in defence studies.

  • Average salary - £36,617Ìý
  • Employers - AWE, Babcock,

Education

Teacher

The demand for science teachers - especially in physics and computing - is growing, with generous bursaries available for trainees. Careers in secondary schools, colleges, curriculum development, or outreach are all options.Ìý

Candidates need a science degree combined with teacher training, such as a PGCE or a teaching degree. For further information, explore routes into teaching.Ìý

Learn more about being a secondary school teacher, further education teacher or higher education lecturer.Ìý

Informal science educator

For those passionate about public engagement, informal science education offers opportunities in museums or outreach organisations where you can design exhibits, deliver talks, and make science accessible to diverse audiences.Ìý

A degree in science or education can help to secure a role, while communication experience or museum studies qualifications also boost your prospects.Ìý

Explore a career as a museum education officer or discover how to get a museum job.Ìý

Forensics

Crime scene investigator

Collecting and preserving evidence at crime scenes, CSIs work closely with law enforcement and often provide expert testimony in court. Their careful attention to detail and methodical approach ensure that critical evidence is handled with precision.Ìý

This role requires a degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field, combined with training in forensic techniques and evidence handling.ÌýÌý

See salary ranges for entry-level and senior crime scene investigators.Ìý

Forensic crash investigator

These experts apply principles of physics and engineering to carefully analyse vehicle collisions, reconstruct events, and accurately determine the causes of accidents. Their scientific mindset ensures thorough and precise investigations.Ìý

A degree in engineering or physics is essential, along with specialised training in crash analysis and forensic reconstruction.Ìý

Learn more about forensic science careers or see what the law enforcement and security sector has to offer.Ìý

Informatics

Clinical informatics specialist

Managing electronic health records and clinical data requires a blend of scientific and technical skills. Specialists in this area optimise healthcare systems and support data-driven decisions to improve patient outcomes and operational efficiency.Ìý

Degrees in health informatics, computer science, or healthcare management are common, and holding a Masters degree or health IT certification can enhance career prospects.Ìý

See how to get started in health informatics.Ìý

Biostatistician

Designing and analysing clinical trial data requires strong quantitative and analytical expertise - skills you will have developed through your degree - and plays a crucial role in supporting drug development and ensuring regulatory compliance.Ìý

Professionals hold Bachelors-level expertise in epidemiology, data science, or statistics, often alongside a Masters or PhD in biostatistics, data science, or public health, and proficiency in statistical software such as and .

Discover what it takes to become a statistician.

Solicitor

In intellectual property and environmental law, solicitors with a strong foundation in science are highly valued for their ability to navigate complex patents, contracts, and policy development with accuracy.Ìý

To enter the field, you'll need to complete a law conversion course, followed by the Legal Practice Course (LPC) and a training contract or pupillage.ÌýÌý

Discover what the law sector has to offer.Ìý

See what it takes to become a solicitor.Ìý

Patent attorney

Combining science, technology, and law, you'll evaluate inventions, draft patent applications, and help clients navigate complex intellectual property regulations to safeguard their innovations.Ìý

Degrees in physics, chemistry, or engineering are required, alongside intellectual property law training and professional certification through .Ìý

Learn more about the role of a patent attorney.

Manufacturing and production

Health and safety adviser

Drawing on your knowledge of chemistry and environmental threats, you'll conduct risk assessments, identify hazards, and ensure workplace safety compliance - helping to protect employee wellbeing.Ìý

Degrees in occupational health, environmental science, or engineering are useful. Certifications from professional bodies like the or the can help you succeed in this role.Ìý

Take a look at the skills you'll need to become a health and safety adviser.Ìý

Quality manager

This role involves applying scientific expertise to oversee material testing, manufacturing supervision, quality audits, and safety standards. By analysing data to detect defects, you'll implement corrective measures, train staff, and optimise product reliability.Ìý

Degrees in chemistry, biology, or engineering, combined with quality management knowledge, are essential. Experience in root cause analysis and statistical process control is especially valuable in regulated sectors like pharmaceuticals.Ìý

Gain an insight into the responsibilities of a quality manager.Ìý

Pharmaceuticals

Regulatory affairs officer

Promoting medical products and providing healthcare professionals with precise technical information are key responsibilities in regulatory affairs. Offering tailored solutions, professionals in this area help enhance patient outcomes.Ìý

Degrees in pharmacology, biomedical science, or chemistry are usually required, while completing training such as that from or an apprenticeship can significantly boost career prospects.Ìý

Discover the work experience needed to succeed as a regulatory affairs officer.Ìý

Medical sales representative

Using your scientific knowledge, you'll promote medical products and provide healthcare professionals with accurate technical information. Building strong client relationships, you'll deliver tailored solutions that improve patient outcomes and keep up with industry advances.Ìý

A Bachelors degree in biology, chemistry, or health sciences is typically necessary, with sales experience and technical communication skills also anÌýadvantage.Ìý

Learn more about becoming a medical sales representative.Ìý

Policy and strategy

Scientific advisor

Bridging the gap between research and decision-making, scientific advisors draw on deep analytical skills to interpret complex findings and guide the development of policies that address major risks such as pandemics and environmental challenges.Ìý

Most advisors hold advanced degrees, often a PhD, which equips them with specialised expertise and analytical training. Government advisory work experience is available on programmes like the Civil Service Fast Stream.Ìý

Explore specialist roles such as radiation protection practitioner or epidemiologist.

Policy officer

Influencing decisions and shaping strategies through scientific insight plays a crucial role in government, NGOs, and think tanks. Policy officers analyse data, assess research, and translate scientific information into recommendations, helping to develop policies that address challenges.Ìý

Professionals with degrees in any science discipline, often supported by postgraduate qualifications in science policy or public policy, thrive in this area.Ìý

For further information on qualifications and skills, see our policy officer job profile.

Public health

Food safety officer

Safeguarding the food supply involves applying scientific methods to monitor hygiene standards, conduct thorough risk assessments, and identify potential hazards to prevent public health outbreaks. Officers rely on testing and data to ensure compliance with health regulations and protect consumers.Ìý

This important work requires a degree in food science, nutrition, or environmental science, supported by certifications like .Ìý

Environmental health officer

Managing environmental risks to protect community health involves systematically assessing hazards, interpreting environmental data, enforcing safety standards, and addressing pollution and contamination issues through evidence-based approaches.Ìý

Typically, degrees in environmental health, science, biology, or public health are required, alongside professional registration and hands-on experience gained through accredited internships or placements.Ìý

Explore more public health careers.

Find out more

Written by Darcy Nathan, Editor

Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ · July 2025

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