What does a science technician do?

A laboratory intern is responsible for assisting laboratory operations and perform examinations and experiments under the supervision of tenured laboratory staff. Laboratory interns shadow all the laboratory processes, document their observations, and conduct an in-depth analysis of the results. They must have excellent knowledge of scientific procedures, demonstrating their class learnings to practical applications. A laboratory intern must be detail-oriented, especially on conducting and verifying the accuracy of research materials. It is also required for a laboratory intern to be a fast-learner, understanding the scientific complexities to master various approaches.

These skill sets are where the common ground ends though. The responsibilities of a science technician are more likely to require skills like "safety regulations," "social work," "data entry," and "technical support." On the other hand, a job as a laboratory internship requires skills like "lab procedures," "chemistry," "python," and "c++." As you can see, what employees do in each career varies considerably.

A biologist is a specialized scientist focusing on studying living organisms and their relationship to the existing ecosystem. Biologists spend lots of time doing research and validating theories to support the complexity of the living matter. In some cases, biologists could also be out in the field rather than staying in a laboratory to collect biological specimens to justify their findings and create reports from their scientific investigations. Biologists also often communicate with government entities and private industries to provide recommendations on preserving the ecosystem and wildlife habitat.

In addition to the difference in salary, there are some other key differences worth noting. For example, science technician responsibilities are more likely to require skills like "safety regulations," "social work," "data entry," and "technical support." Meanwhile, a research assistant, chemistry department has duties that require skills in areas such as "nmr," "sem," "laboratory equipment," and "tem." These differences highlight just how different the day-to-day in each role looks.

Laboratory researchers are professionals who manage a research laboratory while performing cellular and biochemical experiments with the primary researcher. These researchers must work with hazardous chemicals and should show expertise in handling lab equipment such as glassware and field equipment. They are required to assist with research projects and interpret the test data of an experiment. They must manage the order of all lab equipment by filling up the purchase requisition forms. Laboratory researchers are required to work with students in all aspects of laboratory research.

The required skills of the two careers differ considerably. For example, science technicians are more likely to have skills like "safety regulations," "social work," "technical support," and "autoclaves." But a biologist is more likely to have skills like "renewable energy," "cell culture," "technical reports," and "molecular biology."