Science is anything but boring. Attention, future college students! Find out how taking a science-related course can land you the coolest and most important jobs in the country.
Six Scientists that Shape the Future
1. Agricultural Biotechnologist
Here are some benefits of organism and gene modification: a greater yield in crops, resistance of plants to disease, and an improved quality of produce—a prime example of which is the Golden Rice Project that allowed rice to be rich in Vitamin A, a nutrient that normally disappears in the crop during its growth process. If you choose this profession, just imagine how much you can contribute to our country’s agricultural sector!
2. Biochemist
Since a biochemist’s study is broad, dealing with cells and the chemical balance of molecular organisms, this scientist has several job options. From laboratory and research work, to mapping and cataloging tasks, biochemists can find the next best cures in the world of pharmaceuticals, or gather cell samples from plants and animals for invaluable research.
3. Food Technologist
Some entrepreneurs believe that your best bet for a business is something food-related, for the simple reason that you can never go wrong catering to a basic need. Well, some believe that the same logic applies in landing a job. Food technologists are needed by food companies to make sure that they dish out eats that are safe, legal and of high quality. These scientists can even be involved in formulating food manufacturing processes and recipes by using breakthrough technologies and ingredients.
4. Environmental Scientist
With the environment very much an issue these days, environmental scientists have become an important tool in national development. Because they study, not only how the environment works, but also the human impact on our surroundings, environmental scientists can provide insight on the causes of, and solutions to, various environmental problems.
5. Forestry Scientist
Our forests are a valuable resource for raw materials, the primary of which is timber. A variety of flora and fauna species make their home here, each attributing to the delicate balance of nature. Forest scientists are therefore crucial in conserving forests that play a crucial role in protecting our watershed, preventing soil erosion and mitigating global warming.
6. Geologist
Geology is a broad study of the earth that includes its materials, chemical processes, and history, among others. The field’s various facets allow geologists to practice their profession in various ways, such as seismology (the study of earthquakes) and volcanology (the study of volcanoes). With our country included in the Pacific Ring of Fire, geologists can be instrumental in understanding some of our natural disasters.
For graduating Filipino high school students who wish to pursue any of these professions, we have this piece of good news: you can avail of scholarships for priority science and technology (S&T) courses by submitting your applications for the 2015 Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute’s (DOST-SEI) Undergraduate Scholarships Examination. Deadline of submission is August 29, 2014 (Friday).
For those who already applied, here’s something to help you ace the scholarship exam:
Priority S&T courses include agriculture, agricultural biotechnology, biochemistry, computer science, environmental science, fisheries, food technology, forestry, geology, information technology, science/mathematics teaching, statistics, and engineering courses.
The nationwide examination shall be held on September 21, 2014 with results to be announced in March 2015.
Interested parties may download the application form at www.sei.dost.gov.ph or www.science-scholarships.ph. Application forms are also available at the Science Education Institute office at the DOST Compound in Taguig City and in all DOST regional offices, Provincial Science and Technology Centers, and offices of Congressmen and Senators.
Scholarship qualifiers may enroll any of the state universities, colleges, and tertiary institutions identified as Centers of Excellence or Centers of Development by the Commission on Higher Education and in DOST-SEI identified network institutions all over the country. Among these are the University of the Philippines, University of the East, Ateneo de Manila, Ateneo de Davao, De La Salle University, University of Santo Tomas, Mapua Institute of Technology, Don Bosco Technical College, Siliman University, Mariano Marcos State University, and St. Louis University.
For more information, visit www.sei.dost.gov.ph or www.science-scholarships.ph or call (02)839-0083, (02) 837-1333, 837-2071 loc. 2382.
(S&T Media Service)
Sources:
http://science.howstuffworks.com/life/genetic/agricultural-biotechnology1.htm
http://www.wisegeek.org/what-does-a-biochemist-do.htm
http://www.prospects.ac.uk/food_technologist_job_description.htm
http://www.hartwick.edu/academics/majors-and-minors/special-minors/environmental-science-and-policy-minor/what-is-environmental-science
http://www.rfs.org.uk/learning/what-forestry
http://www.utoledo.edu/nsm/envsciences/careers/geology.html