If you’re looking for a career that’s not just about earning a living but actually making a real difference, then a green career could be the perfect fit for you. Instead of just worrying about climate change or feeling powerless, why not be part of the solution? The world needs bright, motivated people to help reduce emissions and build a more sustainable future - why shouldn’t that be you?
A Career with Purpose (and a Paycheck!)
Let’s be honest, finding a job that pays well and makes you feel good about what you do every day is the dream. The need for a low carbon future has never been more crucial, with billions being invested in renewable energy and green projects. Plus, the UK government is aiming to create 2 million low carbon jobs by 2030, so the demand for skilled workers is huge.
Industries like nuclear and hydrogen contribute to the economy while keeping emissions low. That means you could find yourself working on exciting innovations in sustainable materials that help cut fossil fuel use.
A Career with Variety
Working in a green career is anything but boring. You could be in a career researching ways to make chemical production more sustainable, or you could be helping to develop eco-friendly coatings that make products last longer (and reduce waste!). If you love science, innovation, and problem-solving, this is the kind of industry where your skills will really shine.
So, Are There Jobs? Absolutely!
One of the biggest challenges right now is that businesses are struggling to find people with the right skills. That means there are huge opportunities for young people like you to step in, learn, and grow in a career that really matters.
Employers are actively looking for the next generation of skilled workers to help push these industries forward.
Explore a variety of green career opportunities here. Or for more insights into sustainable careers, check out Green Careers Week here.
We’ve all been there. You walk out of an interview, and instead of feeling confident and accomplished, your mind is replaying every awkward pause, every question you stumbled over, and every moment you wish you could do differently. Maybe your nerves got the better of you, or maybe the interviewer threw a curveball question. Here’s how to bounce back and turn the experience into something positive.
1. Take a Deep Breath and Reflect
It’s easy to dwell on what went wrong, but chances are, there were parts that went well too. Did you build a good rapport with the interviewer? Did you confidently answer at least some of the questions? Be honest with yourself, but don’t be overly critical. Reflection is useful, but self-sabotage isn’t.
2. Send a Thoughtful Follow-Up Email
A follow-up email can help reinforce your enthusiasm and professionalism. Thank the interviewer for their time, express your continued interest in the role, and, if relevant, briefly address anything you feel you could have answered better.
3. Learn from the Experience
Ask yourself: what specifically tripped you up? Were there questions you struggled with? Did your nerves get the better of you? Use this as a learning experience to better prepare for next time. If a particular question stumped you, research common answers and practice responding confidently in future interviews.
4. Consider Requesting Feedback
If you feel comfortable, send a polite email thanking them for the opportunity and asking if they have any insights on how you could improve for future interviews. Even if you don’t get a response, you’ve demonstrated professionalism and a willingness to grow.
5. Keep Moving Forward
There will be other opportunities, and with each one, you’ll become more experienced and prepared. If you don’t get this job, it simply means something better suited for you is still out there. Keep applying, keep preparing, and keep improving.
A bad interview isn’t the end of the world - it’s just a stepping stone to your next opportunity. Learn from it, use it to grow, and don’t let it shake your confidence. The right job for you is out there, and with each interview, you’re getting closer to it. So, take a deep breath, shake it off, and get ready for the next one - you’ve got this!
And if you're still on the hunt for the perfect role, check out our vacancies page!
When you think about careers in science, you might picture lab coats and test tubes but there’s a whole world of unexpected and creative careers waiting to be explored. Science isn’t just about formulas and research; it’s about innovation, problem-solving, and shaping the future in ways you might not have imagined.
Here are five creative careers in the science industry that might just surprise you:
Market researchers use surveys, interviews, and data analysis to understand customer preferences. The insight shapes everything from product design to advertising campaigns. It’s a mix of psychology, communication, and detective work - perfect for someone who loves asking questions and uncovering trends. One day, you might be gathering public opinions on a new eco-friendly product; the next, you’re analysing data to help a company rethink its strategy. It’s a career that lets you be curious, creative, and influential.
In the science industries, marketing managers help launch groundbreaking innovations, from sustainable tech to medical breakthroughs. They develop campaigns, create engaging social media content, and work with designers and advertisers to bring ideas to life. No two days are the same - one moment, you’re planning an event for a new product, and the next, you’re analysing how well a campaign performed. If you love creativity but also enjoy strategy and problem-solving, this role could be a great fit.
3. Chemical Engineering Technician
Chemical engineering technicians help turn raw materials into useful products, whether it’s biofuels, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals. They assist in designing and testing chemical processes to improve efficiency, sustainability, and safety. If you enjoy hands-on work and problem-solving, this role offers plenty of opportunities to experiment, analyse data, and refine production techniques. It’s also a career that’s increasingly focused on green solutions - think developing alternative fuels or reducing industrial waste.
From creating new flavours to ensuring food stays fresh longer, food scientists play a vital role in what we eat. They blend chemistry, biology, and creativity to develop innovative food and drink products that are safe, nutritious, and appealing. Whether it’s designing a new plant-based burger or improving the crunch of a snack, this career is all about experimentation and problem-solving. If you love food and enjoy thinking about how science can improve it, this might be the perfect mix of creativity and technical know-how.
Robots aren’t just for sci-fi movies - robotics engineers are designing machines that help in healthcare, manufacturing, and even space exploration. If you’re fascinated by technology and love pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, this field is packed with exciting, hands-on challenges.
Careers in the science industry are far more creative than you might expect. So, if you’re looking for a career that’s both exciting and impactful, why not explore the unexpected side of science? If you’re not sure on where to start, take our Careers Quiz here!
What do you see when you think about working in science or engineering? Someone in a clean, white lab coat? Or someone wearing dirty overalls fixing machinery?
Although those important jobs exist, science is changing so rapidly that the most in-demand professions might be different from what you imagine.
Looking at current and future trends, here's our prediction of the most desirable science skills that could catapult you to a stellar career:
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Watch a movie, and you might think AI and machine learning is all about the tech sector. However, there’s an enormous crossover with fascinating science and engineering careers too.
AI refers to technologies used by machines and computers that can mirror elements of human intelligence - like seeing, understanding, and responding to language with helpful suggestions.
There’s a wave of awesome related jobs on the horizon, including:
- AI researchers,
- data scientists and analysts
- statisticians,
- machine/deep learning engineers,
- Natural Language Processing (NLP) experts,
- and AI programmers.
Many other jobs support the industry too, like ethics and compliance managers, and AI trainers, auditors, and communicators.
AI is already being used to predict animal migration patterns for conservation, improve weather forecasting to combat global warming, and help develop new cancer treatments.
It is estimated that 97 million jobs involving AI will be created by 2025. This is a cutting-edge scientific field that has stacks of career opportunities to boot!
2. Biotechnology & Life Sciences
Technology and biology are merging to create some exciting and futuristic careers. With advances in tailored drugs, medicine, and healthcare treatments, more people with particular science skills are needed.
Life sciences study living things. Some life sciences concentrate on types of living things like zoology (animals) or botany (plants). Other life sciences look at aspects common across living things, like anatomy (the structure of living things) or genetics (what information gets passed down through the generations).
In recent years, genetic advances have been extraordinary, and this is creating lots of job opportunities. Genetic engineering and gene editing are helping to diagnose and fight diseases, boost food crops, and develop new medicines, for example.
There are also jobs being created in areas called bioinformatics (the handling of large amounts of biological information or data that might be used in research) and health informatics(skills for managing and analysing health data) – vital for life-changing discoveries.
3. Cybersecurity
As science starts to rely more and more on digital data, advanced cybersecurity skills could also bag you a well-paid job.
The 2023 Government Cybersecurity Skills report showed that a whopping 50% of all UK businesses have gaps in basic cyber-security skills and that tens of thousands of jobs are not being filled.
Sadly, cybercriminals are using this to their advantage, targeting vulnerable businesses and public sector organisations like schools and hospitals. Many more experts are needed to prevent these disastrous online attacks.
The sector urgently needs more experts across IT and networking, threat intelligence, problem-solving, cyber-attack response planning, digital forensics (to recover, for example, deleted or corrupt data), and cloud computing.
As with other STEM areas, there are lots of non-technical jobs that need other talents too – from communication skills to present findings to understanding business operations. If you’re passionate about technology and care about stopping cybercrime, this could be for you.
4. Robotics
Sadly, this isn’t about working with WALL-E… yet! However, robots are already widely used to help in construction, retail, healthcare and much more.
For example, medical robots assist surgeons in complex procedures; industrial robots can weld and manufacture products at high speed; robotic lab machinery was vital in mass COVID-19 testing during the pandemic.
From classroom teaching aids to the Roomba vacuum cleaner, robotics are becoming part of everyday life – in schools and factory floors to the film and entertainment industry.
As future discoveries continue, we will need more experts to develop, design, build, and maintain robotic machinery for scientific research and laboratory automation.
What’s more, robotic engineers can command very high salaries to keep this vast industry ticking over. People with computer science, maths, mechanical, electrical, and industrial engineering can all find their way into this career. So, what’s stopping you?
5. Renewable Energy and Sustainability
It’s impossible to turn on the news and not hear stories about climate change. Scientists know that most people won’t change their car-buying habits or stop flying on holiday, so innovations in green energy and biofuels might be the next best option.
The Global Green Skills Report 2023 found a 15% increase in green jobs advertised last year compared to the year before, which is only set to grow with global carbon-emission targets.
There will be a massive demand in the future for specialists in:
- nuclear and renewable energy,
- fitting energy-efficient systems in buildings,
- new technologies to reduce carbon emissions,
- climate change,
- environmental laws and legislation,
- financial accounting,
- and risk, business, and project management.
This is an exciting time to be at the forefront of scientific discovery and make a real difference in a sector jam-packed with possibilities. Explore a variety of career roles here!
Figuring out what you want to do with your life is a pretty big deal, and let’s be honest, it can feel overwhelming. With so many options out there, how do you even start narrowing it down? If you’re interested in science but aren’t sure what path to take, don’t panic. You don’t have to have all the answers right away. Instead, start by asking yourself these five key questions to get some clarity (and maybe even a little excitement about your future!).
1. What Am I Actually Interested In?
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth taking a step back and really thinking about it. What topics make you light up? Do you love getting lost in the complexity of human biology? Are you fascinated by space and the possibility of life beyond Earth? Maybe you’re all about sustainability and want to tackle the climate crisis. Science is a massive field, and there’s something for everyone, so finding what excites you most is a great starting point. After all, your career should be something that sparks your curiosity - not something you dread every Monday morning.
2. What Skills Do I Enjoy Using?
Forget for a moment what you’re good at and think about what you actually enjoy doing. Do you love problem-solving and cracking complex puzzles? Maybe research and data analysis are your thing. Or perhaps you prefer being hands-on, working in a lab or out in the field. Careers in the science indsutries can be as varied as designing cutting-edge tech, explaining big ideas to the public, or even crafting policies that shape the future. When you focus on the skills you like using, rather than just the ones you have, you’ll be more likely to enjoy your job in the long run.
3. What Impact Do I Want to Make?
Big question, right? But it’s worth thinking about. Do you want to help discover new medicines? Tackle climate change? Shape the future of AI? The impact you want to have on the world can help guide your career decisions. Science isn’t just about facts and figures, it’s about making a difference. Finding a career that aligns with your values will help keep you motivated and give your work real meaning.
4. What Kind of Work Environment Suits Me?
Be honest with yourself here. Do you thrive in a fast-paced, buzzing environment where you’re always collaborating with others? Or do you prefer a quiet, focused space where you can get lost in your research? Maybe you like a mix of both. Science careers can take you to a lab, a hospital, an office, a remote field station, or even let you work from home. Figuring out where you’ll be happiest and most productive is key to finding a job that truly suits you.
5. What Does Success Look Like to Me?
Success isn’t just about having a fancy title or a high salary (though, if that’s what motivates you, go for it!). For some people, success means making discoveries that change the world. For others, it’s about having a great work-life balance or constantly learning new things. Understanding what you value most will help you make career choices that align with what truly matters to you.
Choosing a career path doesn’t mean locking yourself into one thing forever - plenty of people pivot, explore, and evolve over time. But by asking yourself these five questions, you’ll get a clearer idea of what excites you, what kind of work fits you best, and what you really want out of your career. So take your time, explore different options, and don’t be afraid to dream big. Science has endless possibilities - you just need to find the one that’s right for you!
If you’re unsure about where to start, why not take our Careers Quiz and discover a career that matches your personality!
Dreaming of making a difference in the science industries but don’t have a degree? No big deal! The science industry is full of rewarding and innovative careers that don’t require a university degree. Whether you love working with your hands, solving puzzles, or operating high-tech machines, there’s something for everyone.
Here's a rundown of 10 careers in the science industry you can jump into without a degree.
If you’ve got a passion for experiments and high-tech instruments, a lab technician role is calling your name. Lab techs are the backbone of research teams, setting up experiments, analysing samples, and collecting crucial data. Bonus? This job can even focus on protecting the environment by testing water for pollutants or developing greener energy solutions.
2. Chemical Engineering Technician
Ever wonder how medicines or sustainable fuels are made? Chemical engineering technicians assist in developing safer, more efficient processes for manufacturing. From researching new products to ensuring quality control on production lines, this hands-on career offers a world of exciting challenges.
3. Chemical Plant Process Operator
If you’re fascinated by how things work, this role puts you in charge of the machinery that produces essential products like paints, fuels, and cosmetics. It's a perfect fit for those who love fixing, adjusting, and getting stuff done in a high-tech environment.
4. Engineering Maintenance Technician
Engineering maintenance techs make sure machinery stays in tip-top shape, reducing downtime and keeping processes running smoothly. You'll gain skills in troubleshooting, repairs, and risk assessments, which are invaluable for any engineering-savvy individual.
Are you into maths, technology, or spinning gears? Engineering operatives build, maintain, and repair tools and machinery for all kinds of industries. You could even experiment with computer-controlled machines while ensuring products meet top-quality standards.
Love food and science? Food process operatives manage the machinery that keeps food production flowing smoothly. From controlling temperature gauges to ensuring safety standards, this role helps deliver everything from bread to your favourite snacks.
Tech whizz alert! IT support technicians are the superheroes who swoop in to fix computers, crashes, and forgotten passwords. Day-to-day, you’ll help people solve hardware and software issues. Plus, it's an incredibly versatile role that can open doors in almost every industry.
8. Mechanical Engineering Technician
Get hands-on with industrial machines as a mechanical engineering technician. From creating blueprints using CAD software to identifying and fixing faults, this career is perfect for anyone who loves design, tech, and problem-solving.
Green energy is the future, and nuclear technicians are helping make it happen. These specialists work to monitor, repair, and test equipment in nuclear power plants, contributing to clean energy initiatives. If you're serious about helping the planet, this is a go-to career.
Attention to detail is king in the world of quality control. These professionals test products and processes to make sure they meet the highest standards. From inspecting parts to ensuring safety regulations are followed, you’ll be playing an essential role in scientific industries.
These careers prove that you don’t need a degree to succeed in the science industry. With the right training, determination, and passion, you can break into these exciting fields and start making a difference - both for yourself and the world.
Stay connected with us on social media for updates on career opportunities in the science industries!
National Apprenticeship Week 2025 is here, and it’s your chance to leap one step closer to your dream career. Whether you’re already looking into apprenticeships or just starting to explore your options, this is the week to take action and seize the incredible opportunities out there.
Here’s how to make the most of it:
1. Explore Apprenticeship Opportunities
Did you know there’s an apprenticeship for nearly every career path you can dream of? From the arts to engineering, from digital marketing to healthcare - the possibilities are endless! Take the time to research and uncover the apprenticeship that suits your interests and goals. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure about your direction, why not give our Careers Quiz a try? It may just uncover a hidden passion or match you with the perfect career in the science industries. Go ahead and start exploring!
2. Join Live Employer Events
This is your chance to connect with some of the biggest names in the business world! National Apprenticeship Week features virtual webinars and live Q&A sessions hosted by top employers like VW, Network Rail, Aldi, and Energy Utilities Careers. These events are packed with invaluable insights into various industries, the apprenticeship programs offered, along with tips for landing a spot. Imagine rubbing virtual shoulders with potential future employers and getting insider knowledge straight from the pros.
Check out some of the events here.
3. Check Out Our Expert Careers Guidance
Feeling nervous about applications? Not sure how to ace that interview? No problem! Check out our Careers Guidance area, your ultimate hub for everything career-related. From detailed advice on creating a standout application to interview preparation tips, this is your toolkit for success. This treasure trove of resources will give you the confidence and skills to secure the apprenticeship that could kick-start your dream career.
4. Share Your Story
If you're already an apprentice, now is your time to shine! Share your apprenticeship journey—whether it's about the skills you've learned, the personal growth you've experienced, or the opportunities your apprenticeship has unlocked. Your story can inspire someone else to take that first step into the world of apprenticeships.
- Share your story on social media – Whether it's a post, video, or story, let others know how your apprenticeship has impacted your career and personal growth.
- Use the hashtag #NAW2025 to join the conversation.
- Tag @NotJustLabCoats in your posts so we can celebrate your journey with you!
By sharing, you're not only celebrating your own success but also helping to inspire the next generation of apprentices. Your story could be the motivation someone needs to take that first step. You might even become a role model and create a ripple effect of success and positivity.
5. Follow the Socials
Stay informed and inspired by following all the National Apprenticeship Week action on social media! From announcements and competitions to behind-the-scenes content and motivating stories. Follow the hashtags, engage with posts, and soak up all the tips and insights shared throughout the week. You might even stumble across an opportunity or connect with an employer looking for someone just like you.
You can find our socials here:
Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | YouTube
National Apprenticeship Week 2025 is all about YOU - your future, your career, and your success. Don’t just sit on the sidelines; get involved, take action, and make the most of everything this week has to offer. Whether you’re researching your first steps or amping up your apprenticeship potential, you’ve got this!
Mark your calendars! National Apprenticeship Week 2025 is approaching, running from February 10th to 16th, and it's set to be an inspiring celebration of apprenticeship opportunities. This week is your chance to explore the remarkable benefits of apprenticeships and how they can launch your career.
Why National Apprenticeship Week Matters
Apprenticeships offer a unique pathway to success, combining hands-on experience with structured learning. They allow you to earn while you learn, gaining in-demand skills that employers highly value. For the science industries, apprenticeships are essential for driving innovation and paving the way for a skilled workforce. If university doesn’t align with your goals or learning style, apprenticeships provide an exciting and practical alternative to traditional education.
Ways to Get Involved
Maximise the opportunities during NAW 2025! Here are four practical steps to participate and learn about the world of apprenticeships:
- Explore Career Roles – Investigate the careers available within science, technology, and engineering to find a path that excites you.
- Take our Careers Quiz – Unsure of what direction to take? Our Careers Quiz can help match your interests to potential industries or roles.
- Attend Events & Workshops – Join in-person or virtual events to hear from current apprentices, ask questions, and ignite your curiosity. You can find a list of nationwide events here.
- Engage on Social Media – Stay informed with real-time updates, inspirational success stories, and apprenticeship opportunities by following the event online. Make sure you're following the official #NAW2025 hashtag
Be Part of the Movement
NAW 2025 is a chance to explore new possibilities, develop invaluable skills, and connect with the pioneers shaping the future. Whether you’re planning to pursue an apprenticeship or simply supporting these initiatives, your involvement is vital.
Don't forget to stay connected on our socials for updates, important announcements, and tips on how to make the most of National Apprenticeship Week 2025.
You can find us here:
We’re buzzing to share some amazing news; Not Just Lab Coats is proud to be a day sponsor for National Careers Week 2025 - Wednesday 6th March to be exact! This is such an incredible opportunity for us, aligning perfectly with our mission to inspire the next generation of scientists, innovators, and problem-solvers.
This year’s theme for National Careers Week is all about “Dream Big,” encouraging young people across the UK to explore the endless career possibilities out there.
What’s National Careers Week all about?
National Careers Week is an incredible event where schools, colleges, and universities come together to help young people discover their future career paths. It’s your chance to explore all the exciting paths out there and access tons of helpful resources to guide you in shaping your future.
We’re proud to be sponsoring alongside some big names such as NatWest, NHS and Amazon UK, which means we can bring the exciting world of science to the forefront! So, whether you’re into chemistry, tech, or just curious about what’s possible, we want to spark your imagination and show you how amazing careers in science, manufacturing and technology can be.
Why we’re doing this
At Not Just Lab Coats, we’re passionate about careers in science, technology, and manufacturing—and we want you to be too! Supporting National Careers Week is our way of showing you just how exciting and impactful these fields can be. With so many opportunities available, we’re here to help you dream big and see what’s possible for your future.
How you can get involved
National Careers Week 2025 is packed with opportunities to help you explore what your future could look like. If you’re a student, teacher, or school looking to get involved, check out the National Careers Week website for free resources, ideas, and tips to make the most of the event.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Wednesday 6th March 2025! We can’t wait to see you there!
In the meantime, don’t forget to follow us on social media for updates, job vacancies, and more exciting news.
