Become a Researcher

Being a Researcher means you get to satisfy your curiosity and make a real difference in the world. Whether you’re passionate about protecting the environment, improving healthcare, or understanding history, research allows you to explore your interests and contribute to solving important problems facing society.

• Discover new knowledge and solve real problems.
• Work in emerging fields in science or technology.
• Make meaningful contributions to society.
• Collaborate with experts and innovators globally.

Researchers investigate questions and problems by conducting experiments, gathering data, and analysing information. They work in diverse fields like science, medicine, social sciences, and humanities, depending on their interests and expertise. Their findings help expand human knowledge and drive progress in various industries and sectors.

As a Researcher, you’ll spend your days asking questions, designing experiments, collecting data, and analysing results. You’ll collaborate with other experts, publish your findings in journals, and maybe even travel the world to share your discoveries. It’s a career that’s challenging, rewarding, and filled with endless opportunities to learn and grow.

Research is everywhere, and Researchers can be found in almost every industry. Whether it’s exploring outer space, developing new medicines, or studying human behaviour, there’s a research role for everyone. Here some of the many industries that employ researchers:

• Healthcare and Medicine
• Environmental Science
• Technology and Engineering
• Education
• Market Research
• Archaeology and History

To excel as a Researcher, you’ll need a mix of analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills. Being curious and persistent is key to tackling complex problems and finding innovative solutions. Other relevant skill connected to this career path are:

• Analytical Thinking
• Attention to Detail
• Problem Solving
• Communication
• Time Management
• Adaptability

Studying certain STEM subjects at school can provide you with a strong foundation for a career in research. These subjects teach you how to think critically, analyse data, and communicate your findings effectively.

Science

Develops your understanding of scientific principles and research methods.

Mathematics

Provides essential skills for data analysis and statistical interpretation.

English

Enhances your communication skills, vital for writing reports and presenting findings.

History

Offers insights into research methodologies and understanding past events.

Computer Science

Equips you with skills for data management and analysis using technology.

Geography

Helps in understanding spatial data and conducting fieldwork.

Researchers get to explore fascinating topics, conduct experiments, and make groundbreaking discoveries. They might study ancient ruins in far-off lands, search for new planets beyond our solar system, or develop innovative technologies that change the world.

Conduct exciting experiments in a state-of-the-art lab
Set up and carry out experiments, testing new ideas and exploring scientific theories that could lead to breakthrough discoveries.

Analyse complex data to find patterns
Use advanced software and tools to analyse large data sets, uncovering trends and insights that help answer important research questions.

Present findings at international conferences
Share your discoveries with other researchers and experts from around the world at major academic and industry conferences.

Collaborate with global research teams
Work with researchers across the globe to solve problems in areas like healthcare, climate change, or technology, combining different perspectives and expertise.

Write and publish scientific papers
Turn your findings into published papers that contribute to the scientific community, shaping future research in your field.

Design innovative solutions to real-world challenges
Use your research to develop practical applications, whether that’s improving medical treatments, creating sustainable technologies, or addressing social issues.

Australia is home to many exceptional researchers whose work is shaping the future in fields such as science, technology, and medicine. These inspiring individuals are leading the way in making a difference through research.

Professor Veena Sahajwalla
A world-renowned materials scientist, Professor Sahajwalla is the Director of the Sustainable Materials Research and Technology (SMaRT) Centre at UNSW Sydney. She is a champion in recycling science and has developed ‘green steel’ technology.

Dr. Cathy Foley
As Chief Scientist of Australia, Dr. Foley has had an outstanding career in physics and research, working on interesting projects in superconductivity and contributing to Australia’s scientific leadership on a global scale.

Professor Fiona Wood
A pioneering burns specialist and researcher, Professor Wood is known for her work in developing spray-on skin technology. She leads research at the Fiona Wood Foundation, improving outcomes for burn victims.

Dr. Anne Kelso
Dr. Kelso is the CEO of NHMRC and a leading immunologist. She has played a crucial role in health research funding in Australia, supporting groundbreaking medical research and innovation.

Professor Michelle Simmons
Renowned for her work in quantum computing, leading a team at the University of New South Wales that is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in computing technology. 

Professor Ian Frazer
His groundbreaking research led to the development of the HPV vaccine, protecting millions from cervical cancer.

Being a Researcher requires more than just technical skills – it also requires personality traits that help navigate the challenges of the research process. Curiosity, perseverance, and a love for learning are essential qualities for success in this field.

• Curious
• Persistent
• Creative
• Detail-Oriented
• Patient
• Independent Thinker

Embracing these traits allows you to approach problems with an open mind, overcome obstacles, and push the boundaries of knowledge in your chosen field of research.

A university degree is an essential starting point for a career in research, particularly in scientific or academic fields. Here are some relevant options:

Bachelor of Science (Honours)
This degree provides students with foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. The University of Western Australia (UWA) offers a Bachelor of Science with honours that prepares students for research roles by focusing on critical thinking, data analysis, and lab skills.

Bachelor of Biomedical Science
For those interested in health and medical research, this degree offers a strong focus on biology, anatomy, and disease prevention. Curtin University provides a Bachelor of Biomedical Science that equips students with the knowledge to pursue research careers in healthcare.

Bachelor of Social Science (Research Methodology Focus)
This degree focuses on research methods in social sciences, such as sociology, psychology, and political science. Murdoch University offers this course, allowing students to conduct social research and impact policy and community development.

Also look into:

• Bachelor of Science (BSc)
• Bachelor of Arts (BA) with a major in a relevant field like History, Psychology, or Sociology
• Bachelor of Engineering (BE)
• Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) for medical research
• Master of Research (MRes) for those seeking advanced research training

Being a Researcher is all about thinking outside the box and connecting different areas of knowledge. Imagine combining your love for science with your passion for art or history – you could study how ancient artwork reveals clues about past civilisations or explore the science behind famous artworks. Many universities offer flexible degree options or double degrees, allowing you to alter your education to suit your interests and career goals.

Studying to become a Researcher is like undertaking a grand adventure of the mind. You’ll learn how to ask big questions, design experiments to find answers, and analyse data to draw conclusions. 

Along the way, you’ll develop critical thinking skills, learn to work independently and collaboratively, and become an expert at communicating your findings to others. It’s an exciting journey of discovery that will prepare you to make your mark on the world through research and exploration.

Getting immersive experience is key to becoming a successful Researcher. This could involve volunteering in a research lab at your school or local university, participating in summer research programmes, or even conducting your own independent research projects. By gaining experience in the real world, you’ll not only develop practical skills but also build valuable connections with researchers and scientists in your field.

Not sure if traditional university is the right path for you? There are plenty alternative pathways to becoming a Researcher:

Vocational Training and Certifications
For those interested in practical experience, vocational courses and certifications in laboratory techniques or data analysis provide a more practical route into research roles.

Diploma of Laboratory Technology
This course gives students practical lab skills, focusing on scientific testing and analysis, ideal for entering research labs in various fields.

Certificate in Data Analysis
This certificate focuses on data collection, statistical methods, and analytical tools, making it useful for those wanting to pursue research in data-heavy fields like economics or marketing.

Micro-Learning and Online Courses
Online platforms offer flexible learning options for those wanting to gain specific research skills.

Research Methodology Basics
This course covers the fundamental concepts and processes of conducting research, from hypothesis development to data analysis.

Advanced Data Analytics
Learn how to handle large datasets and use statistical tools to draw insights, perfect for those pursuing research in tech or social sciences

But what happens once you’ve invested the hard work and time into your study and career pathway, what opportunities lie ahead?

Western Australia

Research opportunities exist across fields such as healthcare, environmental science, and technology. Organisations like Telethon Kids Institute offer roles for medical researchers focused on improving children’s health, while CSIRO employs researchers working on climate science and renewable energy projects. Universities like UWA also offer research positions, providing opportunities for academic research in various disciplines.

Australia-Wide

Researchers can find roles in academic, corporate, and government sectors. Institutions like CSIRO offer research positions in areas like agriculture, data science, and environmental sustainability. Healthcare organisations such as Garvan Institute of Medical Research are also key employers, offering positions to researchers focused on genetics and personalised medicine. Research roles in social sciences and public policy are available at think tanks and universities, including The Australian National University (ANU).

Global Opportunities

Researchers are in demand in top universities, tech companies, and research institutions. In the United States, companies like Google and NASA offer research positions in artificial intelligence, space exploration, and technology. In Europe, institutions such as The Max Planck Institute provide opportunities for scientific research across disciplines. Meanwhile, global health organisations like The World Health Organization (WHO) hire researchers to focus on improving global health systems.

Whether you’re studying climate change in the Arctic or conducting medical research in Africa, the world is your laboratory as a Researcher.