You’re sitting at your computer at this very moment, with a dozen tabs about medical science degrees open and heaps of questions spinning in your head. But one question jumps out at you the most — what jobs can I find myself in with a Bachelor of Medical Science?
A degree in medical science is your gateway into the realm of medicine and health science. The knowledge of medical sciences can launch you into every possible avenue of science from microbiology to pharmacology.
If you’re wondering what a Bachelor of Medical Science is like, check out our articles on Medical Science degrees here:
- University of Technology Sydney (UTS) | Pros and Cons
- University of New South Wales (UNSW) | Pros and Cons
- University of Sydney (USYD) | Pros and Cons
- Western Sydney University (WSU) | Pros and Cons
- Macquarie University | Pros and Cons
But let’s get back to answering your question. What jobs can you do within the field of Medical Science?
Career Pathways
These are career pathways and are usually not accessible to graduates with undergraduate degrees. These jobs in Medical Science may require post-graduate qualifications such as a Masters Degree or a PhD.Â
#1: Medical Researcher
Ever wondered what it’d be like to work on the front line of cancer or diabetes research? Here’s your chance!
As the name suggests, a medical researcher or a research scientist works in research laboratories or experimental trials to solve complex medical and health related problems.
A lot of the pharmaceuticals and therapies used to treat diseases such as cancer are based on the research and breakthroughs made by medical researchers.Â
If you’re interested in expanding the frontier of health research or looking to pursue a Master’s degree or PhD in STEM in the future, this could be the path for you!
JobOutlook: Estimated pay of $1,871 per week with a strong future growth rate.
#2: Microbiologist
Contrary to popular belief, looking at the smaller picture could reveal as much as looking at the bigger picture!
Welcome to the world of microbiology, where the closer you look, the more you discover.Â
Microbiologists study microscopic organisms — viruses, bacteria, fungi etc. to identify their characteristics and to determine their roles in the environment. The work of a microbiologist often centres around the investigation of disease causing microorganisms, often working in tandem with the fields of pharmacology and epidemiology.Â
If you are interested in investigating the microbiological causes of disease, being a microbiologist would be a very rewarding career.
JobOutlook: Estimated pay of $1,784 per week with a stable future growth rate.
#3: Pathologist
In the era of epidemics, a pathologist is one of the key weapons in quickly and accurately diagnosing diseases.
The applicable skills of a pathologist spans practically every disease or medical condition known today. Pathologists have a very important role in studying human biological samples to help diagnose a disease.
Still not convinced? Almost all cancer diagnoses these days are made by a pathologist or in conjunction with a pathologist.
Thinking of working on the diagnostic end of health science? Maybe pathology is your calling.
JobOutlook: Â Estimated pay of $1,795 per week with a very strong future growth rate.
#4: Pharmacologist
Many of the medications and therapeutics used in treating diseases such as cancer and diabetes are developed and tested by pharmacologists.Â
Pharmacology is a large field of study and research focussing on the development of chemicals to be used in new treatments. It requires an in-depth understanding of chemistry and how chemical processes interact with the body’s biology.
Pharmacology is rather broad, with the freedom to move into other specialisations such as toxicology or neuropharmacology.Â
Most pharmacologists are employed in public or private pharmaceutical companies.
JobOutlook: Same as Microbiologist
#5: Biochemist
Can’t decide between a career in biology or chemistry? Well, why not both?
Biochemistry, as the name suggests, is a hybrid between the biological and chemical sciences. A biochemist studies the chemical and biological processes occurring in living organisms.Â
Being a biochemist means working in basic or applied research. Your goal could be to simply expand human knowledge of molecular biology or to apply your research to solve a particular problem.
You could be researching the effects of drugs and chemicals or investigating DNA and proteins to unlock the secrets of heredity!
Pursuing a career in biochemistry could mean joining the ranks of some of the biggest names in science! James Watson, Francis Crick and Rosalind Franklin who discovered the structure of DNA were all biochemists.
JobOutlook: Same as Microbiologist
#6: Genomics Scientist
Keen on understanding the mysteries behind heredity and genomics?
As one of the really fascinating jobs within the field of Medical Science, you could be set on the path to becoming a genomics scientist.
As a genomics scientist, you will be tasked with investigating genetic disorders and identifying future risks for patients. Technical knowledge will be important here, as you’ll analyse clinical samples using biotechnologies such as Polymerase Chain Reaction, and gel electrophoresis.Â
Genomics scientists usually find themselves working in a clinical setting, as counsellors for patients or licensed physicians to administer gene therapy treatments.
Have an interest in the burgeoning field of gene therapy? This might be the career you’re looking for!
JobOutlook: Same as Microbiologist
Careers
#7: Science Writer
Can’t decide whether you want a career in journalism or one in science? Well you’re in for a treat because you have the option of doing both!
As a science writer, you’ll be tasked with researching, writing and editing scientific articles and news for a whole range of industries — business, trade, scientific journals etc. You’ll be responsible for covering scientific breakthroughs and exciting new fields of research!
Work as a science writer is flexible, typically being a freelance job. Delve into investigatory roles by reporting scientific news for the media or communicate complex scientific concepts to a professional audience.
If you have a passion for writing and a passion for science, being a science writer might be your calling!
JobOutlook: Estimated pay of $1,576 per week with a stable future growth rate
#8: Health Educator
Looking to give back to the community? Health educators have a very important role in educating the community on healthy lifestyle habits to improve quality of life!
Remember Healthy Harold? The giraffe that came around to your school in a portable classroom to teach you about health and the human body? Yep, a school health educator in disguise.
As a health educator, your job will be to develop and facilitate health programs for the community as well as advocate for improved health resources and policies.
You’ll find the most opportunity for work in health care facilities, non-profits, public health departments or private businesses.
This is a very rewarding career if you’re into helping others become their healthiest selves!
JobOutlook: Estimated pay of $1,328 per week with a very strong future growth rate.
#9: Research Assistant
Vying for work in a laboratory or in research but don’t have a post-grad degree under your belt yet?Â
Here’s an opportunity for you to do just that! A research assistant usually only requires an undergraduate degree with some research experience (Honours) in the relevant discipline.Â
As a research assistant you’ll be carrying out research and experiments, collecting and recording data and pretty much any other laboratory work you can think of! The only caveat here is that you’ll be working under the direction of a senior team member, instead of pursuing your own research interests.
Looking for your first step into real laboratory work and research? This might be the job for you!
JobOutlook: Estimated pay of $1,346 per week with a strong future growth rate.
#10: Lab technician
Would you rather be more hands on with laboratory work without the hassle of research? Lab technicians do exactly this!
The category of lab technician covers quite a variety of roles. Some of the more common job titles for lab technicians include Quality Control Associate, Quality Assurance Specialist or Process Scientist.Â
Being a lab technician means providing the technical support that scientists need to complete their research and laboratory work. This involves tasks such as preparing experiments, preparing and cleaning lab equipment, mixing compounds for laboratory use or general supervision of the lab environment.
This might just be what you’re looking for if you’re not too keen on research but eager to put your technical skills to work.
JobOutlook: Estimated pay of $1,159 per week with a strong future growth rate
There you have it!
That’s 10 careers and career pathways you can pursue within the field of Medical Science! Which of these medical science jobs do you think is right for you?
Make sure to check out our other articles on careers, studies and more!
Alex Gao is an Art of Smart mentor and blogger who is passionate about teaching students the skills and know-how of high school. Alex has a great interest in the field of Biology, avidly blogging about the topic whilst also aspiring to become a Biomedical Engineer. Alex graduated in 2018 and was listed on the Distinguished Achievers list for Advanced English, Extension 1 English and Biology.
