Scientists use their knowledge of chemistry, biology, physics, and other subjects to develop new products, cure diseases, and advance technology. In trainee scientist positions, many universities, government agencies, and private companies employ a large number of college graduates. Before transitioning into permanent scientific researcher roles, these individuals typically combine classroom study with on-the-job training. In many cases, trainees are postgraduate students whose major corresponds to the work they are doing, and permanent job offers are frequently contingent on successful completion of the advanced degree program.
Trainee scientist jobs in hospitals and other medical facilities focus on studying biological samples, viruses, bacteria, and other substances. Typically, trainees assist a department head or chief researcher in determining the cause of a pandemic or researching the effects of experimental drugs on patients. Pharmaceutical companies also hire trainee scientists, who, like some hospital employees, are tasked with discovering cures for diseases and ailments. Pharmaceutical firm employees, unlike medical center researchers, usually do the majority of their work in laboratories with tissue samples, whereas their medical counterparts often work with live patients.
Many trainee scientists are employed by manufacturing companies and energy providers outside of the medical field. Many of these experts are working on developing new compounds and materials that can be used in commercial products, while others are looking for new energy sources. Typically, the trainees’ work is theoretical rather than practical, and their studies and research are overseen by an experienced scientist. Some theories may lead to the development of products and ideas, but for the most part, the trainees’ only practical work is assisting experienced workers with ongoing projects.
College graduates are employed by the government in a variety of trainee scientist positions. Military trainees assist scientists in the development of weapons, satellite systems, and new technologies that could be used in the field. Trainees have limited access to certain aspects of each project, and much of the research is classified; in this case, they are not permitted to discuss the work with those who do not have the necessary security clearance. Other government trainee scientists assist experienced researchers in gathering data on climate change, environmental studies, and other topics that may be of general public interest. Scientists from a variety of fields, such as biology, meteorology, and chemistry, may be involved in analyzing various types of data related to the same government study in many cases.
Universities employ a large number of trainee scientists. These people have Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees in a variety of fields, from sociology to pharmacology. Trainees frequently work as associate or assistant professors, assisting experienced faculty members with study and report preparation.