How to Be Environmental Research Scientist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 16, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

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The burning of fossil fuels has caused an increase in levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, leading to the global phenomenon of climate change. This in turn has had a dramatic effect on our environment, increasing the intensity and frequency of natural disasters such as floods, droughts, hurricanes and wildfires. It has also caused sea level rise, ocean acidification, and a reduction in biodiversity.

As a result, research scientists are working hard to develop new technologies and strategies to reduce emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change. This includes developing renewable energy sources, improving efficiency of existing energy sources, and reducing emissions from existing sources. research scientists are exploring ways to sequester carbon from the atmosphere in order to reduce atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelors Degree in Environmental Science. You will need to complete an undergraduate degree in environmental science or a related field to become an environmental research scientist. This typically takes four years of full-time study and includes courses in environmental biology, chemistry, physics, and other sciences.
Gain Work Experience. Work experience in environmental research or a related field can be beneficial for aspiring environmental research scientists. You can gain experience through internships, apprenticeships, or volunteer work.
Consider a Masters Degree. A masters degree in environmental science or a related field can be helpful for finding a job as an environmental research scientist. Many employers require this level of education.
Obtain Certification. Certification is not required, but it can be beneficial for job seekers and professionals. There are certification programs available through organizations such as the American Institute of Biological Sciences and the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry.
Pursue a Doctoral Degree. A doctoral degree is not required to become an environmental research scientist, but it may help you find a higher-level position. Doctoral programs typically take three to five years to complete and involve extensive research and dissertation writing.
Find a Job. Once you have the necessary education and experience, you can begin applying for jobs as an environmental research scientist. You can search for jobs on job sites, in newspapers, and on the websites of organizations that hire environmental research scientists. You can also attend job fairs or contact potential employers directly.

In order to stay updated and efficient as an environmental research scientist, it is important to regularly attend conferences, read current research studies and publications, and build relationships with other professionals in the same field. Attending conferences allows scientists to learn from their peers, gain valuable insight into their field, and find out about new advancements and discoveries. Reading current research studies and publications enables scientists to stay informed of the latest developments in their field and develop a better understanding of their research.

Building relationships with other professionals in the same field is beneficial because it provides an opportunity for collaboration on research projects and allows for the exchange of ideas and resources for professional growth. By following these steps, environmental research scientists can stay up-to-date and efficient in their work.

You may want to check Environmental Assessment Specialist, Environmental Protection Planner, and Environmental Compliance Manager for alternative.

Job Description

Air Pollution Research Scientist: Analyze and interpret data to determine the impact of air pollution on the environment. Design and implement research plans to identify and mitigate air pollution sources.
Water Quality Research Scientist: Monitor and analyze water quality, identifying contaminants, and developing strategies to improve water quality.
Climate Change Research Scientist: Research and analyze climate change data to study its effects on ecosystems, weather patterns, and the environment. Develop strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Ecological Research Scientist: Study the effects of natural and human-caused changes on ecosystems. Monitor and analyze species populations, habitats, and environmental conditions.
Toxicology Research Scientist: Identify, evaluate, and monitor toxic substances in the environment. Develop strategies for reducing or eliminating exposure to toxins.
Public Health Research Scientist: Study the impact of environmental factors on public health. Design and implement research plans to identify health risks associated with environmental pollutants and other hazards.
Environmental Monitoring Research Scientist: Collect, analyze, and interpret data from environmental monitoring systems. Provide information to support environmental management decisions.
Environmental Policy Research Scientist: Analyze and evaluate existing and proposed environmental policies, regulations, and laws. Develop recommendations for improving existing laws or creating new ones.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Strong analytical, problem solving and research skills
Knowledge of environmental science, ecology and natural resource management
Ability to interpret complex data sets
Proficient in the use of scientific computer software
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Ability to develop plans and strategies for environmental projects
Ability to work with diverse stakeholders
Knowledge of environmental regulations and legislation
Knowledge of environmental assessment methods
Ability to conduct field sampling and laboratory experiments
Ability to prepare technical reports and documents
Knowledge of data collection techniques and methods
Knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Knowledge of remote sensing technologies

The most important skill for an Environmental Research Scientist is the ability to think critically and analyze data. Critical thinking and data analysis provide the foundation for successful research, as it allows the researcher to identify patterns and draw meaningful conclusions from the data. By combining an understanding of the scientific method with strong analytical skills, an Environmental Research Scientist can develop hypotheses, design experiments, and interpret results.

being able to effectively communicate research findings to a variety of stakeholders is a key skill. Through clear communication, an Environmental Research Scientist can advocate for positive change and help shape public policy. With these skills, an Environmental Research Scientist can make a lasting impact on the environment.

Environmental Policy Analyst, Environmental Consultant, and Environmental Educator are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in environmental research?
How did you become interested in environmental research?
What do you think are the most pressing environmental issues facing us today?
Describe a research project that you have conducted and its outcome.
How do you stay up to date with the latest research and trends in environmental science?
What methods do you use to analyze data and interpret results?
How do you communicate your findings effectively to management or other stakeholders?
What challenges have you faced when conducting environmental research?
How do you collaborate with other researchers to ensure successful project outcomes?
What do you believe is the most important factor for good scientific research?

Common Tools in Industry

Geographic Information Systems (GIS). A computer system used to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, and display geographic data. (eg: ArcGIS)
Remote Sensing. The use of satellite or airborne imaging systems to collect data about the earth's surface. (eg: Landsat)
Hydrological Modeling. Computer simulations that use physics-based equations to model the behavior of water systems. (eg: HEC-RAS)
Statistical Analysis Software. Programs used to analyze and interpret data, often with a focus on the relationships between variables. (eg: SPSS)
Environmental Chemistry Software. Programs used to store and analyze data related to the chemical composition of the environment. (eg: CHEMCAD)
Environmental Data Management Systems. Systems used to store, organize, and manage environmental data, often with mapping capabilities. (eg: EnviroMapper)
Data Visualization Tools. Software used to create visual representations of data, such as graphs and charts. (eg: Tableau)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Geophysical Union (AGU)
Association for Environmental Studies and Sciences (AESS)
American Society of Environmental Professionals (ASEP)
Ecological Society of America (ESA)
Association of Environmental Engineering & Science Professors (AEESP)
International Association for Ecology (INTECOL)
Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC)
European Environmental & Sustainable Development Law Association (EESDLA)
Society for Conservation Biology (SCB)
International Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (ISETAC)

We also have Environmental Technician Lead, Environmental Health and Safety Supervisor, and Environmental Planner jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Air Pollution. The presence in the air of substances that are harmful to health, the environment, or both.
Climate Change. The long-term shift in global weather patterns caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and land-use changes.
Ecology. The study of the interactions of living organisms with their environment.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). A systematic process used to identify the potential environmental effects of proposed activities or projects.
Environmental Monitoring. The continuous collection of data and information about the environment for the purpose of assessing, managing, and predicting environmental change.
Hazardous Waste. Materials that pose a risk to human health and the environment if not managed properly.
Hydrology. The study of water and its movement through the Earths environment.
Sustainable Development. Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Toxicology. The study of the harmful effects of chemicals on living organisms.
Waste Management. The practice of reducing, reusing, and recycling materials to minimize their environmental impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What type of degree is required to become an Environmental Research Scientist? A1: Most Environmental Research Scientists hold a Master's degree or higher in a field such as Environmental Science, Ecology, or Atmospheric Science. Q2: What type of research do Environmental Research Scientists conduct? A2: Environmental Research Scientists conduct research to better understand and mitigate the effects of human activity on the environment. This may involve analyzing air, soil, and water samples, developing models to predict changes in climate or environment, or studying the impact of pollution on ecosystems. Q3: Where do Environmental Research Scientists typically work? A3: Environmental Research Scientists can work in a variety of settings including universities, government agencies, private companies, and non-profit organizations. Q4: What skills are important for Environmental Research Scientists? A4: Environmental Research Scientists need strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. They must also have a thorough understanding of the scientific process and data analysis techniques. Q5: How much do Environmental Research Scientists typically earn? A5: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for Environmental Research Scientists in the United States is $71,130 per year.