Dan, Research Scientist at Government Agency: Advize Career Interview
A career in research science at a government agency promises a fast-paced and impactful journey.
Starting with a background in natural resources and fueled by graduate-level studies in ecology, one can contribute to addressing climate change and clean energy solutions, specifically in areas like waste reduction and greenhouse gas emissions.
Expect a blend of technical research, policy writing, and collaborative meetings, all while continuously learning and adapting to new challenges.
This role offers the rewarding opportunity to work alongside passionate individuals towards a common goal of improving lives and tackling humanity's biggest challenges.
Though resources may be limited, the ability to write clearly, analyze data, and present findings effectively is crucial for success.
By focusing on thoroughness, honing communication skills, and actively seeking entry-level opportunities within state agencies, any aspiring student can begin this exciting career path.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Dan Clark
Research Scientist
Government Agency
Rutgers University
SUNY ESF - MS; Rutgers University - PhD; Sam Houston State University - MPA
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Environmental & Related Sciences
Government
Research and Development (R&D)
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Career path of a Research Scientist at a Government Agency
Dan pursued a degree in Natural Resources Management, leveraging undergraduate research to gain entry into a Master's program in Forest and Natural Resources Management followed by a doctorate in Ecology; amidst the education, they held "odd jobs," including retail, valet parking, and substitute teaching, also gaining experience in "online content writing in the realm of ecology," before landing the current Research Scientist role at a Government Agency.
Main Responsibilities Of A Research Scientist At A Government Agency
Dan's main responsibilities as a Research Scientist at Government Agency revolve around "climate change and clean energy," focusing specifically on policy areas related to "waste and food waste" as well as "natural working lands and quantification of greenhouse gas emissions." Dan also contributes to other areas such as "low embodied carbon concrete."
A Day In The Life Of A Research Scientist At A Government Agency
A research scientist's day is "pretty fast-paced," involving about half the day in meetings – internal strategy, regulatory writing, and coordination with other states – and the other half dedicated to research on a "range of topics" to support both those meetings and the agency's long-term goals.
Most Important Skills for a Research Scientist at a Government Agency
For a Research Scientist at a Government Agency, the most important skills are a blend of the technical and the communicative: as Dan states, it is about both "very technical skills" like "30 plus credits of graduate statistics" and "being able to write clean and concise, you know, memos, reports, emails, all of that." These analytical and written language skills allow the effective dissemination of research findings.
Biggest Challenges Faced by a Research Scientist at a Government Agency
Dan's biggest challenge as a Research Scientist at a Government Agency is the common issue of limited resources: "never enough funding or time in the day to do everything you wanna do." The work can be exciting, and there is a desire to "really dig into it" but often must move on to the next thing.
Favorite Parts of Working in the Government Industry as a Research Scientist
Dan enjoys working on climate change and clean energy solutions as a Research Scientist, finding it rewarding to contribute to addressing "the biggest challenge facing humanity today" and "make lives better for everybody". They appreciate the opportunity to apply the knowledge gained through extensive education to a field with such significant impact.
What Type Of Person Thrives In Research, According To A Government Agency Research Scientist
To thrive as a Research Scientist at a Government Agency, "being flexible" and versatile with a wide range of skills is essential, as is an attitude of always "be[ing] learning things." Collaboration is also key, as "nothing that we do is in a vacuum," meaning the ability to work well with others is critical for success.
What a Research Scientist at a Government Agency Wishes They Had Known Before Entering the Government Industry
Dan, a Research Scientist at a Government Agency, wishes someone had emphasized the importance of honing skills like writing "short memos" and creating effective "PowerPoint" presentations, as this is a skill that "takes some learning" to meet government standards. Ultimately, communication skills tailored for a bureaucratic environment are crucial, and that's something Dan wished had been more emphasized for their career.
Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Research Scientists In Government
Dan, a Research Scientist at a Government Agency, suggests aspiring professionals should regularly check for posted positions, including with state agencies, because "we're pretty regularly hiring" and getting any entry-level role to "do good" and "stick around."
Significant Career Lesson From A Research Scientist At A Government Agency
Dan, a Research Scientist at a Government Agency, emphasizes the importance of "tak[ing] time to review things and be careful about them," highlighting the significance of self-editing and thoroughness within the constraints of available time. This suggests that careful consideration and effort in refining one's work are crucial for success in a research-oriented career.
College Experiences That Helped a Research Scientist at a Government Agency Succeed
Dan, a Research Scientist at a Government Agency, feels career path was "roundabout" rather than directly planned, but acknowledges that graduate degrees were essential for their position, and undergraduate research was crucial for getting into grad school. Therefore, the advice would be to focus on "reading instructions and doing the work and picking up as many skills as you can."
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