Question: when did you become a scientist and how long did it take to train

Vicky Forster answered on 19 Nov 2013:

Hi Fluffy,

Good question. There isn’t really any time when you become a ‘proper scientist’ I don’t think. I feel like I am always learning! However, last summer I completed a PhD degree, which is essentially a training degree for research scientists in training – so, I guess I’m a proper scientist of sorts now! If you want to become a scientist, you will need to do some science A-levels (although not necessarily all of them), and choose a degree at a university which is good for science. Then if you want to be a research scientist – it’s a good idea to do a PhD, but isn’t always necessary. So, the ‘training’ is a 3 year undergraduate degree (or a 4 year masters degree) and then a PhD. However, there are lots of different ways to become a scientist. For example, a biomedical scientist, who works in a hospital lab analysing patient samples – you don’t need a PhD, you need a first degree in biomedical sciences (or similar) and then they train you on the job. I hope that answers your question and good luck if you are considering becoming a scientist! I really liked your questions in the chat the other day!