Natural Sciences Managers
Additional Information
Duties
Managers in the natural sciences often do the following actions:
- Develop research and development objectives and plans with top executives.
- Plan projects and programs by identifying the manpower, training, and equipment requirements for the project or program.
- Manage scientists, technicians, and other staff workers.
- Examine the research methods used by the team and the accuracy of the findings.
- Keep tabs on the status of initiatives, go through the results of research, and write up operational reports.
- Establish a supply of equipment and supplies in the labs.
- Help scientists, technicians and other support employees in their research by providing technical help.
- Administrative processes, policies, and standards must be established and adhered to.
- Inform clients and upper management with the progress of projects, research findings, and other relevant information.
Managers in the natural sciences are responsible for overseeing scientific research, as well as product development and production projects and activities. Managers in the natural sciences have a wide range of responsibilities, depending on whether they work in a specific branch of science (such as biology or chemistry) or a specific sector. It is possible for research initiatives to improve industrial processes, advance scientific understanding, or generate new goods. etc.
It is not uncommon for administrators in the natural sciences to still conduct their own research and supervise the work of others after becoming scientists themselves. Known as "working managers," these executives have fewer employees, which gives them more time for research as well as administration.
Since a manager of a large team, you may not have the time or energy for research, as you'll be doing administrative tasks instead.
Managers of laboratory facilities must guarantee that scientists may carry out their tests and studies without interruption. Laboratory animal care is a specialty for some.
It's important for project managers in the natural sciences to collaborate with different departments and organizations throughout the project. Higher-ups in management; finance, production, and marketing experts; and suppliers of supplies all work together.
Education
As scientists, most managers in the natural sciences have a Ph.D. or a master's or bachelor's degree in a science discipline such as biotechnology or healthcare management. Managers must have scientific and technical expertise in order to comprehend the job of their employees and offer aid when needed.
Master's and Ph.D. programs in natural sciences that include business management courses are readily available to natural sciences managers who wish to further their studies. As a result, Professional Science Master's (PSM) degree programs combine advanced knowledge of a specific science discipline with business skills like communications and program management, and policy-related training. If you want to learn how to run a business, you can get an MBA or a Master of Public Administration (MPA) (MPA). They may have studied psychology or another management-related discipline in order to become natural sciences managers.
Because of the quick pace of scientific advancements, science managers must constantly refresh their expertise.
A Related Occupation's Work Experience
Prior to become a manager in the natural sciences, scientists often spend several years in the field. As a scientist develops their skills and expertise, they are often granted more authority and responsibility over their job. When they are promoted to a management role, they may head research teams and be in charge of the project's direction and substance.
Registration, Certification, and Licensing
There are several relevant qualifications available, even though they aren't normally necessary for a career in natural sciences management. These credentials cover a wide range of disciplines, from laboratory animal management to project management.
Characteristics of Critical Importance
Skills in verbal and nonverbal communication. There are a wide range of audiences for natural sciences managers, from scientists and policymakers to the general public. Communication in both the written and spoken word is critical.
Analytical abilities. Managers in the natural sciences must evaluate the work of others with great care. They must check to see if the procedures and outcomes of their employees are supported by strong scientific principles.
The ability to interact with others. A natural sciences manager must be able to work well with others to accomplish common objectives. Managers have to deal with disagreement on a regular basis and find ways to put it to their advantage.
The ability to lead. Managers in the natural sciences must be able to coordinate, guide, and inspire their teams. They must learn about their employees' skills and shortcomings in order to establish a work atmosphere where they may flourish.
The ability to solve problems. When faced with a challenging technological problem, managers in the natural sciences often turn to scientific methods of observation and analysis for assistance.
Ability to organize one's time. They must be capable of performing many administrative, managerial, and technical responsibilities while maintaining project schedules in the natural sciences sector.
Pay
The median annual wage for natural sciences managers was $161,180 in May 2024. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $79,830, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $239,200.
Job Projections
Employment of natural sciences managers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.