Soil scientist : Career development

Opportunities for career development are very much dependent on the sector in which you work. Promotion in most areas is based largely on experience, scientific publication and performance.

Soil scientists working for non-academic research bodies, such as governmental organisations or private sector companies, can expect promotion in their first five to ten years in post. There are opportunities to advance within a technical role, with promotion to senior levels, or by moving into managerial roles.

Soil scientists based in private consultancies are often required to apply their expertise in a wider range of disciplines, as required by their clients.

Soil scientists in higher education institutions can expect structured career progression. After completing a PhD, progression is to a post-doctoral position or a junior lectureship. From here promotion is to a senior lectureship or a readership, achievable within five to ten years, depending on your publication record and funding. Managerial responsibilities can be gained by applying for head of department or school/college positions. Research-based jobs are typically for fixed periods so progression is commonly dependent on moves to other projects or organisations.

Soil scientists who wish to become self-employed will need first to acquire extensive experience and to have developed a specialisation within soil science.