Natural Sciences Manager
SOC 11-9121.00 · ESCO 1349 · OSCA 132131
Role snapshot
Overview
Oversees teams of scientists and researchers, setting project goals, allocating budgets, and ensuring studies meet deadlines and regulatory standards. This role bridges the gap between laboratory work and organizational strategy, driving scientific innovation and ensuring efficient resource utilization.
Drives scientific discovery and technological advancement by strategically guiding research efforts, fostering collaboration, and ensuring the ethical and efficient conduct of scientific projects. Contributes to organizational goals through effective management of scientific talent and resources.
On the job
- Develop and implement research strategies and objectives aligned with organizational goals
- Manage budgets, resources, and timelines for multiple scientific projects
- Lead, mentor, and evaluate teams of scientists, fostering a collaborative research environment
- Ensure compliance with regulatory standards, ethical guidelines, and safety protocols
- Communicate research findings and project progress to stakeholders, including executives and funding bodies
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
Typically requires a Master's or Doctoral degree in a scientific field, often combined with significant research experience.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Natural Sciences Manager
Research & Academia
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
investigative · IEC
Individuals who enjoy observing, learning, and analyzing complex scientific problems, combined with a strong drive to lead and manage projects and people, often thrive in this role. An affinity for organizing data and systems is also beneficial.
Personality characteristics
Visionary
Demonstrates a high degree of intellectual curiosity and an openness to new scientific ideas and approaches, essential for driving innovative research.
Organized
Highly conscientious and disciplined in managing complex projects, budgets, and regulatory requirements, ensuring research runs smoothly and ethically.
Influential
Possesses strong extraversion to effectively lead research teams, secure funding, and communicate scientific vision to diverse stakeholders.
Collaborative
Exhibits sufficient agreeableness to foster a cooperative research environment and build effective relationships with team members and external partners.
Resilient
Maintains emotional stability and composure under pressure, navigating the challenges inherent in scientific research and project management.
Best for
- Scientists with strong leadership aspirations who want to shape research direction.
- Individuals who thrive on strategic planning, problem-solving, and team development.
- Professionals who enjoy bridging the gap between scientific discovery and organizational goals.
Watch out for
- Requires balancing deep scientific knowledge with significant administrative and managerial duties.
- Can involve navigating complex organizational politics and securing competitive funding.
- Pressure to deliver innovative results within strict timelines and budget constraints.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Natural Sciences Manager — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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