How to become a natural sciences manager

Is becoming a natural sciences manager right for me?

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Overview
What do natural sciences managers do?
Career Satisfaction
Are natural sciences managers happy with their careers?
Personality
What are natural sciences managers like?

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How to become a Natural Sciences Manager

Becoming a natural sciences manager involves a combination of education, experience, and professional development. Here are the general steps to pursue a career as a natural sciences manager:

  • Educational Preparation: Obtain a relevant bachelor's degree in a natural sciences field such as biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, or a related discipline.
  • Pursue Advanced Education (Optional): While a bachelor's degree may be sufficient for entry-level roles, obtaining a master's or Ph.D. can enhance your qualifications and open up more opportunities for leadership positions. Advanced degrees are particularly beneficial for managerial roles in research-intensive industries or academia.
  • Gain Work Experience: Acquire several years of work experience in a scientific role, gaining expertise in your chosen field. Many natural sciences managers have backgrounds as scientists, researchers, or engineers before moving into managerial positions.
  • Build a Strong Professional Network: Engage with professionals in your field by attending conferences, workshops, and industry events. Networking can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and potential job opportunities.
  • Pursue Professional Certifications (Optional): While not mandatory, some natural sciences managers choose to pursue relevant certifications to enhance their credentials. For example, the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification may be beneficial for those involved in project management aspects of research.
  • Gain Management Experience: As you progress in your career, seek opportunities to take on leadership roles or management responsibilities within your organization. This could involve supervising a research team, leading projects, or overseeing specific scientific initiatives.
  • Explore Specialization Areas: Consider specializing in a specific area within natural sciences that aligns with your interests and career goals. Specialization can distinguish you as an expert in a particular field, making you more competitive for managerial roles.
  • Apply for Managerial Positions: Once you have the necessary education, experience, and skills, start applying for natural sciences managerial positions. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your leadership experience, scientific expertise, and any relevant managerial skills.

Certifications
While there may not be specific certifications exclusively for natural sciences managers, individuals in this role can benefit from a variety of certifications that enhance their leadership, management, and technical skills. Here are some certifications that can be relevant for natural sciences managers:

  • Project Management Professional (PMP), offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI): The PMP certification is widely recognized and focuses on project management skills, which are essential for managers overseeing research projects and scientific initiatives.
  • Certified Manager (CM), offered by the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM): The Certified Manager certification is designed to validate management skills, including planning, organizing, and leading teams. It can be beneficial for individuals in managerial roles.
  • Certified Research Administrator (CRA), offered by the Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC): The CRA certification is specifically for professionals involved in research administration, which includes aspects of managing research projects, grants, and compliance.
  • Certified Professional in IACUC Administration (CPIA), offered by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS): The CPIA certification is relevant for those working with Institutional Animal Care and Use Committees (IACUCs) and overseeing animal research programs.
  • Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP), offered by the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SoCRA): The CCRP certification is designed for professionals involved in clinical research and can be valuable for managers overseeing clinical trials and research studies.
  • Certified Laboratory Manager (CLM), offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP): The CLM certification is suitable for laboratory managers and supervisors, providing recognition of management skills in a laboratory setting.
  • Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE), offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ): This certification focuses on quality management principles and practices, which can be applicable for those managing scientific research with a focus on quality assurance.
  • Leadership and Management Certificates: Many universities and professional development organizations offer leadership and management certificate programs. While not specific certifications, these programs can provide valuable skills in leadership, team management, and strategic planning.