Science careers involve so many different fields and specialties, it would be difficult to list them all, but they do fall into some basic categories. There are three broad areas that will encompass many science careers: teaching, research, and practical application. Each of these three categories are somewhat dependent on one another. Further, many scientists may work in more than one of these broad areas, depending on what their careers call for.
Careers in science dealing with research involve discovering new things that build upon previously-established knowledge or principles. For example, if it is known that a certain drug is effective against viruses, some scientists may do research to fine tune that drug for specific viruses. Environmental science careers, such as the work of an ecologist, will often involve a great deal of research work as well. In some cases, a scientist working in the area of research may devote most of his or life to a single project.
Science careers that focus on practical application involve using scientific principles to produce immediate benefits. This could be seen in a computer science career, where the work done today could go into tomorrow's technology. Medical doctors are also a type of science career where practical application is very important. Without figuring out how to apply science to areas of health, there would be no effective healthcare. It is important for the doctor to understand how biological processes work, and how they may be affected by different treatments.
Educational opportunities in science encompass all fields. Science professors often instill the value of science as a way of personal enrichment and intellectual development. Those who are interested in science careers in education may not only spend time in the classroom, but in the practical application and research fields as well. The other advantage of this field is that there is often a shortage of teachers in many science areas. Therefore, those who want a career with prospects for steady employment would do well to consider the educational side of the equation.
Though many individuals involved in science careers may not be called scientists, that is exactly what they are, to one extent or another. A television weather forcaster is a type of scientist, who focuses on atmospheric conditions. A pharmacist is a scientist concerned more with chemistry and biology than anything else. No matter what science career is chosen, there are often many different types of jobs. Whether one is called a scientist or not, science still has a lot to do with many occupations.