There are worldwide opportunities available for people with science, engineering and technology skills but Ireland has led the way in some of the world’s key innovations. Irish science, engineering and technology graduates are the key to attracting overseas investment and Ireland has become the location of choice for areas such as electronics, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, attracting some of the biggest names in the industry such as Google, Dell and Intel.

When studying a science subject at third level, logical thinking is encouraged, but so too is being creative and inventive. These skills are highly valued by employers so there are very few careers that cannot be pursued one a science qualification has been gained. Science graduates have gone on to top jobs in business and industry because their studies have encouraged them to be versatile and independent.

Careers specifically in science include pharmacology, biotechnology, food science and nanotechnology. Pharmacology scientists research new drug treatments for illnesses such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. But if understanding gene therapy of discovering new energy sources sounds more interesting, then a career in biotechnology might be more suitable.

An exciting new area of science emerging is NANOTECHNOLOGY which links physics with chemistry, biology and engineering to work on products that are not only smaller, but stronger, lighter and more precise. You can learn more about nanotechnology and play the NanoQuest computer game at www.nanoquest.ie.

There are many different areas in Science, Engineering and Techology to consider and so many opportunities available. The first step to a career in science is to discuss options in detail with a career guidance counsellor at school or visit DISCOVER SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING www.science.ie for further information.

DISCOVER SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING is an integrated national science awareness programme managed by Forfás on behalf of the Office of Science & Technology in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment with the specific aim of establishing a culture of scientific and technological innovation in Ireland