March 29, 2024
Updated April 1, 2025
18 minute read
Embarking on a Career as a Research Scientist
A Research Scientist is an individual dedicated to the systematic investigation of the unknown. They employ the scientific method to ask questions, formulate hypotheses, design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and draw conclusions. Their work pushes the boundaries of knowledge in diverse fields, from unraveling the mysteries of the universe to developing life-saving medical treatments.
The pursuit of discovery is often what draws individuals to this career. Research Scientists experience the thrill of uncovering new information, solving complex problems, and contributing to the understanding of the world. This path offers intellectual stimulation, the chance to specialize deeply in a chosen area, and the potential to make significant contributions to society and technological advancement.
Overview of Research Scientist Careers
What is a Research Scientist?
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Find a path to becoming a Research Scientist. Learn more at:
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Reading list
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Covers the use of chemical sensors for environmental monitoring. It provides a comprehensive overview of the different types of chemical sensors that are available, and discusses their applications in monitoring air, water, and soil.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of chemical sensors, covering the fundamental principles, design, fabrication, and applications of various types of chemical sensors. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced researchers in the field.
Provides a foundational understanding of the two systems that drive the way we think: System 1 (fast, intuitive, and emotional) and System 2 (slow, deliberate, and logical). Understanding these systems is crucial for recognizing cognitive biases that can impede scientific thinking. It's highly relevant for anyone looking to improve their decision-making and analytical skills.
A classic work in the philosophy of science, this book explores the nature of scientific knowledge and the process of scientific discovery. Popper argues that science progresses through a process of conjecture and refutation.
Published recently, this book directly addresses the challenges of evaluating information in a world awash in data and misinformation. It provides practical tools and frameworks for identifying and dissecting 'bullshit,' making it highly relevant for contemporary discussions on scientific thinking and data literacy. This valuable resource for students and professionals alike.
Written by a statistician and FiveThirtyEight founder, this book examines the challenges of making predictions in a data-rich world. It explores the difference between signal and noise and highlights the importance of probabilistic thinking and evaluating the reliability of data sources. Highly relevant for data science and understanding uncertainty.
Sagan's classic work powerful defense of scientific thinking against pseudoscience and irrationality. It explains the scientific method in an accessible way and provides a 'baloney detection kit' for evaluating claims. is invaluable for developing critical thinking skills and understanding the importance of skepticism in scientific inquiry. It serves as excellent background reading for solidifying an understanding of the scientific mindset.
Provides a detailed guide to DNA sequencing protocols, including sample preparation, library preparation, and sequencing analysis. It valuable resource for researchers who are new to DNA sequencing or who want to improve their sequencing skills.
This comprehensive guide to scientific thinking provides clear explanations of key concepts, practical examples, and critical thinking exercises to help readers develop their ability to reason logically, evaluate evidence, and construct sound arguments.
A more recent publication that delves into the issues of research integrity and the various factors that can lead to flawed or misleading scientific findings. is highly relevant for understanding the challenges facing contemporary science and the importance of robust methodology and transparency. It's particularly valuable for those pursuing research or working with scientific data.
Taleb argues that rare, unpredictable events ('black swans') have a massive impact on the world and that we tend to rationalize them in hindsight. challenges conventional notions of probability and prediction, encouraging a more robust and skeptical approach to understanding complex systems. It's valuable for professionals dealing with risk and uncertainty.
Goldacre, a medical doctor, dissects examples of misused statistics, misleading health claims, and general scientific illiteracy in the media and advertising. is highly practical for developing the ability to critically evaluate scientific information encountered in daily life. It's particularly useful for undergraduates and professionals who need to discern credible evidence from 'bad science.'
Discusses the use of chemical sensors in space exploration. It covers a variety of topics, including the detection of biomarkers, the monitoring of environmental conditions, and the search for life on other planets.
This foundational text in the philosophy of science provides a comprehensive overview of the field. It covers topics such as the nature of scientific knowledge, the scientific method, and the relationship between science and other disciplines.
Explores the role of models in scientific discovery. It argues that models are not just representations of reality but also play an active role in the process of scientific reasoning.
Popper's seminal work introduces the concept of falsifiability as a criterion for demarcating science from non-science. This philosophical text is foundational to understanding the nature of scientific hypotheses and the process of scientific testing. It classic in the philosophy of science and essential for graduate students and researchers.
Explores the use of chemical sensors for homeland security applications. It covers a variety of topics, including the detection of explosives, chemical warfare agents, and toxic industrial chemicals.
Similar to 'Nudge' and 'Thinking, Fast and Slow,' this book explores the systematic ways in which humans depart from rational decision-making. Through engaging experiments and anecdotes, Ariely reveals the hidden forces that influence our choices, providing valuable insights for understanding human behavior in scientific contexts and beyond.
This highly influential book introduces the concept of paradigm shifts in science, arguing that scientific progress is not always a linear accumulation of knowledge but can involve radical changes in fundamental concepts and methods. While more philosophical, it provides essential context for understanding the dynamic nature of scientific thinking and is considered a classic in the philosophy of science.
Provides a practical guide to DNA sequencing, including choosing the right sequencing technology, preparing samples, and analyzing data. It valuable resource for researchers who are new to DNA sequencing or who want to improve their sequencing skills.
This textbook focuses on developing critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. It covers a wide range of topics, including logical reasoning, decision-making, and scientific method.
This practical guide provides college students with strategies for developing scientific thinking skills. It covers topics such as how to read scientific articles, design experiments, and analyze data.
This accessible guide focuses on the scientific method and provides practical advice on how to apply it in everyday life to make better decisions, solve problems, and understand the world around us.
This practical guide provides a step-by-step approach to scientific thinking. It covers topics such as how to define a problem, gather evidence, and develop a solution.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
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