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Science Stream Careers: Beyond Engineering and Medicine

  • Writer: Indranil Roy
    Indranil Roy
  • Mar 26
  • 6 min read

Updated: Apr 9

Series General, Blog 4a


The content of this blog is now available as a podcast too. If you are an auditory consumer of wisdom, listen to this scintillating exchange below:



Preface: Before I launch into this blog, I’d like to share why I decided to write this series on career options and opportunities in the three primary streams of education – Science, Arts, and Commerce. While these are the most traditional paths, there are also emerging fields that deserve careful consideration based on a student’s interests and strengths.

 

When I began writing and publishing my blogs, I reached out to friends and colleagues for feedback. One common theme stood out: the overwhelming dilemma faced by both parents and students today. The sheer abundance of career options, while exciting, often leads to confusion and, in some cases, poor decisions and choices. The allure of a “glamorous” career can sometimes overshadow the realities of the field, leaving students disillusioned and dismayed. I’ve seen many young adults switch streams mid-way, resulting in lost time, money, peace of mind, and even self-confidence. Clearly a problem of plenty!

 

This realization prompted me to take on the challenge of demystifying career choices for young adults and their parents. My goal is to provide clarity on both traditional/conventional and non-traditional/unconventional career paths, helping students make informed decisions that align with their passions and strengths.

 

Note 1: This blog is not a substitute for professional career counselling. Instead, it’s a compilation of my observations, experiences, conversations with experts, and insights from our ever-helpful AI friends. My hope is that this series will spark awareness and curiosity, empowering students and parents to explore the vast world of opportunities with confidence.

 

Note 2: This blog is lengthy but packed with detailed information, resources, and actionable advice. Grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!

 

 

The Ever-Expanding World of Science

 

Fun Facts: Did you know that a science degree can lead to careers in space exploration, gaming, or even fashion? Or ever heard of a biotechnologist working on sustainable fashion?

 

The world of science has expanded far beyond the traditional paths of engineering and medicine. This blog will attempt to provide a comprehensive and detailed guide to science stream careers, covering traditional, modern, and unconventional options.

 

Traditional Career Paths: The Evergreen Options

 

 

 

 

Modern Career Paths: The New Frontiers

 

 

  • Biotechnology and Bioinformatics:

    • Overview: Applications in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science.

    • Top Institutes in India:

      • Tier 1: JNU (JNU Delhi), University of Delhi (DU).

      • Tier 2: VIT Vellore (VIT), Amity University (Amity).

    • International Institutes: MIT (MIT), University of Cambridge (Cambridge).

    • How to Prepare: Pursue a degree in Biotechnology and internships in research labs.

    • Online Resources:

 

 

 

Real-Life Stories of Charting Unconventional Career Trajectories

 

Story 1: From Engineering to Environmental Science – The Green Pioneer

Meet Rahul, a bright student who cracked the JEE and joined a top engineering college. But halfway through his degree, he realized something was missing. “I loved solving problems, but I wanted to solve real-world problems – like climate change and pollution,” he kept saying to himself.


Finally, Rahul switched to Environmental Science and never looked back. Today, he works with a leading renewable energy company, designing solar-powered solutions for rural areas. “It’s not just a job; it’s a mission. Every solar panel we install brings light to someone’s life,” he shares.


Why He Switched: Rahul wanted to make a tangible impact on the environment.

How He’s Making a Difference: By bringing clean energy to underserved communities.

 

Story 2: The Biotechnologist Who Revolutionized Fashion

Priya always dreamed of becoming a doctor, but her love for biology took her down a different path. She pursued Biotechnology and stumbled upon the fascinating world of lab-grown materials.


Today, Priya runs her own startup that creates lab-grown leather for sustainable fashion. “I wanted to prove that science can be stylish,” she laughs now. Her work has caught the attention of global fashion brands, and she’s helping reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry.

 

Why She Switched: Priya wanted to combine her love for biology with her passion for creativity.

How She’s Making a Difference: By making fashion sustainable and eco-friendly.

 

Story 3: The Data Scientist Who’s Saving Lives with AI

Arjun was a typical IT professional, coding away in a corporate job. But he always felt he could do more. “I wanted to use my skills to solve real-world problems,” he thought.


Arjun transitioned into Data Science and now works on AI-powered healthcare solutions. His team has developed an algorithm that predicts heart disease risk with 90% accuracy. “It’s amazing to see how data can save lives,” he reflects.

 

Why He Switched: Arjun wanted to use his technical skills for a greater purpose.

How He’s Making a Difference: By improving healthcare outcomes through AI.




Which Science career excites you the most?

  • 0%Traditional Engineering or Medicines

  • 0%Data Science

  • 0%Biotechnology

  • 0%Others - Mention in the Comments section



Role Playing for Practice


  • For Students: Imagine you’re a scientist working on a groundbreaking project. Write a 1-minute pitch about your work.

  • For Parents: Role-play as a career counsellor and guide your child through choosing a science career.



Conclusion: The Future is Yours to Explore

 

Recap of opportunities in the science stream, a treasure trove of opportunities, both traditional and modern.

  1. Traditional Paths:

    • Engineering: From IT to Aerospace, the possibilities are endless.

    • Medicine: Save lives as a doctor, dentist, or researcher.

    • Research and Academia: Push the boundaries of human knowledge.

 

  1. Modern Paths:

    • Data Science and AI: Solve complex problems using data.

    • Biotechnology: Innovate in healthcare, agriculture, and sustainability.

    • Space Technology: Explore the final frontier.

 

  1. Adjacent Careers:

    • Science Communication: Share the wonders of science with the world.

    • Entrepreneurship: Turn your ideas into impactful businesses.

 

 

A Caveat: This is Just the Tip of the Iceberg

 

This blog has touched upon some of the most exciting career options in the science stream, but remember – this is just the tip of the iceberg. The world of science is vast and ever evolving, with new opportunities emerging every day.


 

CBSE, India's national-level education board for public and private schools, managed by the Union Government, has come out with "Parents’ Handbook on Careers after School in India", a comprehensive guide providing valuable insights and practical advice to assist schools, parents, and guardians in helping their children explore career options effectively.




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