Medical scientist
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours
- Usually work in offices and laboratories at research centres
- May work in hazardous conditions
- Need to be methodical, accurate and identify and solve problems
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Research diseases
- Analyse biological samples
- Make sure work is done safely
- Lead medical science or health care programmes
- Teach science students
- Create medical standards
- Prepare scientific reports and presentations
- Write funding applications
Outlook
Medical science is advancing rapidly through developments in biotechnology, genomics, artificial intelligence and precision medicine. In New Zealand, scientists contribute to healthcare, public health and biomedical research, while international collaboration continues to accelerate innovation. Emerging technologies are helping researchers better understand disease and develop new diagnostic approaches and treatments, making this a dynamic and evolving field.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Strong scientific and analytical thinking
- Curiosity and problem-solving ability
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to interpret and communicate data
- Teamwork and collaboration skills
- Adaptability and willingness to learn new technologies
Professional registration
Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand
04 801 6250
AUT programmes
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
Further study options
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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.