Jobs In Science That Didn't Exist 20 Years Ago
Updated: Mar 28, 2022
With the cold of winter behind us, we at Nyla Nova STEMversity welcome spring with open arms. During this time of year, it's hard not to get excited about tucking away the winter coats and swapping out the warm pants for shorts. But the season isn't the only thing changing. The field of science has advanced in many ways in the past twenty years, bringing new opportunities for growth and new careers that are made for young learners. Here is a shortlist of some of the careers that students may want to consider for their future. Young change-makers are welcome to apply.
Environmental Engineer/Scientist
Protecting the environment is everyone's responsibility. Unfortunately, not enough of us take it seriously. As an Environment Engineer or Scientist, it will not only be your responsibility, it'll be your job. Outdoors-men and women are ideal for this role because they gather samples in the field and examine the environment. But those who prefer to work inside will still have a place in this field because there is a good amount of study that has to be done with microscopes and lab coats. A passion for the environment is all that is required.
Hydrologist
When floods and tsunamis happen, a hydrologist will be the one brought in to explain how and why this happened. Someone who wants to understand how and why water moves the way that it does would be best for this role. Not only that, the study of pollution and how to minimize the effect on our planet will be a major focus. However, that is not to say that this will be a role that works purely in the field. There will also be a heavy focus on computer imaging to interpret data and forecast future events.
Sustainability Manager
As a Sustainability Manager, the goal will be to make sure that companies do everything that they can to cut down on their waste. When it comes to corporations, increased visibility comes with increased accountability. Keeping the bottom line in mind, many companies are considering how they can minimize their negative impact on the environment. But they don't only work with companies. They also make recommendations to governments and legislators to protect vulnerable areas like wetlands. A portion of their responsibility may extend to presenting findings at conferences and creating reports detailing their studies. Making sure to keep clients and the public abreast of how best to minimize their environmental impact is a big part of the job.
Genetic Counselors
Though there are many facets of the environment to study, there are also many fields of study that may spark interest inside of every one of us. Science has only recently gotten to a point where we can study our genetics and make decisions based on our hereditary traits. A Genetic Counselor would review a person's DNA (or a group of people's DNA) and make healthcare recommendations. This can be for a couple considering conception. But they can also serve as consultants for people considering certain testing procedures and treatment options with their genetic background in mind. They may also present ideas and discoveries to conferences and amongst professional organizations. An interest in understanding the genetic factors that can cause or prevent disease and the ability to report on these factors is key in this role.
There are so many more roles that have popped up in the world within the last twenty years. Between advancements in internet technology, changes in the public response to the sciences, and countless other factors it has been quite the transition from then to now. But there is always room for passionate world-changers to improve their world in one of these roles or a role that they are passionate about that may not exist yet. No matter what your passion is, there is room in the sciences for you. And if there isn't one that suits you specifically, you are welcome to make one!
Shaw, G. (2019, November 19). 15 popular jobs that didn't even exist 20 years ago. Insider. Retrieved March 27, 2022, from https://www.insider.com/new-jobs-didnt-exist-2018-4#sustainability-managers-are-in-charge-of-making-sure-an-office-or-company-is-doing-its-very-best-to-protect-the-environment-and-engage-in-sustainable-practices-something-that-has-only-become-popular-relatively-recently-9
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2021, September 8). Life, physical, and Social Science Occupations : Occupational outlook handbook. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved March 27, 2022, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/home.htm
Yate, M. (n.d.). 6 fastest growing jobs in science and Technology. Monster Career Advice. Retrieved March 27, 2022, from https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/most-stable-professional-sectors-science-technology