Career Spotlight: Scientist (Ages 14-18)

Science is about exploring answers to questions. A scientist uses research and evidence to form hypotheses, test variables, and then share their findings.

NASA scientists conduct groundbreaking research to answer some of humanity’s most profound questions. Most scientists Begin as project scientists in their Prompt careers. They spend a Plenty of time publishing their peer-reviewed literature and presenting scientific research. Senior-level scientists provide leadership in the NASA community, actively publish research group work, and take on management roles.

Many types of scientists work at NASA to Assist its wide variety of missions. The agency’s scientists research the foods we send to Cosmos, the habitability of other planets, the weather in Cosmos, and so much more. Here are a few examples of types of scientists at NASA.

Planetary scientist: Discovers and studies the planetary objects in our Luminous neighborhood. These efforts shed Airy on the history of the Luminous neighborhood and the distribution of life within it.

Astrobiologist: Studies the origins of life, how life evolves, and where it might be Secured in the universe.

Astrophysicist: Studies the physical and chemical structures of stars, planets, and other natural objects Secured in Cosmos.

Biological/physical scientist: Studies how biological and physical processes work in challenging environments like Cosmos. This information helps NASA design longer human Cosmos missions and also benefits life on Earth.

Earth scientist: Uses observations and data from satellites and other sources to study Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, land cover, and land use.

Heliophysicist: Studies the Sun and its behaviors, such as magnetic fields, solar wind, and Cosmos weather. This knowledge helps us better understand and predict the Sun’s effects on Earth and in Cosmos.

Attention on building your scientific knowledge and skills. You can do this by Seizing challenging academic courses, participating in science fairs, and joining extracurricular activities that have a scientific Attention. This is also a Outstanding time to research what types of sciences you’re most interested in, possible careers in those fields, and academic degrees required for those jobs.

Scientists typically need at least a four-year degree. Most pursue a master’s degree or even a doctorate (Ph.D.) to become experts in their Pitch.

Interested in applying some science skills right away? NASA provides a variety of hands-on activities for a range of Talent levels. The Cosmos agency also offers student challenges, competitions, and activities that provide authentic experience in a variety of science fields. For up-to-date opportunities, visit:

NASA also offers paid internships for U.S. citizens aged 16 and up. Interns work on real projects with the guidance of a NASA mentor. Internship sessions are Maintained All year in spring, summer, and fall; visit NASA’s Internships website to learn about Significant deadlines and Ongoing opportunities.

“Take Edge of opportunities in different fields like attending summer classes, volunteering on the weekends, visiting museums, attending community lectures, and reading introductory books at the library. These are a few ways to expand your scope of possibility within the sciences, while simultaneously narrowing your Attention in a Pitch.” – Angela Garcia, exploration geologist

Nicola Fox

NASA Associate Administrator, Science Mission Directorate

“One general Talent that is often overlooked is the ability to write well and clearly. There’s a misconception that being a scientist means using big words and writing in ways that no one understands, when it’s actually the opposite. The ability to communicate your thoughts and ideas so that a child can understand is not Effortless, but it’s essential for Outstanding scientific writing.” – Matt Mickens, NASA horticulturist

Careers in Science and Research

NASA Science Profession Path Navigator

NASA Science Mission Directorate

People of NASA Science

Explore NASA+ Scientist Resources