What is applied science?
Scientists in the field link a company to practitioners, customers, and key opinion leaders.
Applied scientists positions represent a variety of careers for biomedical scientist PhDs. Ranging from technical sales, field applications, and medical science liaisons, positions in this area are found in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. These roles offer support to researchers or clinicians who are customers of your company, maintain peer-to-peer relationships with key opinion leaders, and serve as internal experts in a particular field. Consequently, each type of role offers a great diversity of opportunities, allowing those interested in this career to specialize based on their area of interest or expertise.
For example, with microscope manufacturers, microscopists can find application scientists who are responsible for the sale, installation, and maintenance of equipment, or who serve as collaborators in experimental design and implementation.
The common thread among these positions is that communication and interpersonal skills are critical, as professionals in these roles interface directly with scientists or physicians who utilize a product, piece of equipment, or drug developed by the company for which you work.
Applied Science - The Fundamentals
Get a quick overview of applied science careers from UCSF alums working in the field
Field Science Alumni Career Paths Panel featuring UCSF alums Eleanor Zoe Kincaid, PhD, Andrew Mancini, PhD, and Mayra B. Pastore, PhD.
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What are some job titles for applied science positions?
What does a career in applied science look like?
How do I know if this is a good fit for me?
How do you transition into field science careers?
What are some organizations that hire PhDs?
How can I build relevant experience?
How can I connect with other professionals in applied science careers?
Example job descriptions
