Its been a long time since a career in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) meant choosing a conventional profession such as engineering, or medical. The list of conventional STEM careers has slowly evolved into dynamic career options for the thriving generation of the present.
Thanks to the ever-growing scientific and technological advancements around the world, we now have a plethora of professional choices for every subject we study. STEM careers have particularly become glamourous and very exciting for students deciding on their career paths.
What is attracting students towards these new-age careers in the science field, is that the STEM careers of today don’t necessarily require conventional degrees such as that of engineering or maths.
Universities have started providing advanced certifications and educational programs for students interested in programming, artificial intelligence, and other fields because having a “traditional” degree isn’t the be-all and end-all anymore.
But what are these new-age STEM careers, you ask?
Here’s a List of the Most Unusual STEM Careers:
1. Cryptozoologist
The study of “mythical”, “legendary” and undiscovered animals, whose existence or survival is disputed is called Cryptozoology. The field requires the study and continuous application of science to discover new, hybrid creatures.
The Loch Ness monster, Big Foot, and Yeti are some of the cryptids that are often searched for by cryptozoologists.
The field of cryptozoology is an interesting STEM career for students who like the idea of taking expeditions to various habitats, where these creatures are rumoured to be found.
2. Toy Designer
Toy designing is one of the best STEM careers for students who are creative, have an artistic bent of mind, and are interested in science, maths, and technology.
A toy designer is required to create innovative toy prototypes on paper, or computer and come up with diverse, cost-effective methods to manufacture the product. The toys are created after a deep research on the trends, child psychology, and using reviews on previous toys. The prototype can then be sold to popular toy companies such as Mattel, Fisher-Price, Lego, etc to be sold across the world.
3. Volcanologist
A volcanologist, also known as a volcano scientist is a geologist who specializes in the formation, results, and eruptive activities of volcanoes. Volcanologists monitor the volcanic eruptions, active volcanoes, and sample results of their eruptions such as lava, rock, ash, and other newly discovered elements for further analysis and research.
This STEM career is perfect for students who have an interest in geology, geophysics, or earth science, and like travelling on the side. The field requires going to various volcanic sites around the world for exploration, and sampling.
4. Nuclear Engineer
Nuclear engineers train to design, operate and manage nuclear plants and reactors. They are also in charge of planning and implementing procedures to dispose nuclear waste and safety measures around the plant.
The high-profile job requires an advanced qualification in mathematics and engineering as well as a deep understanding of science.
It is one of the many exciting, lucrative careers in the STEM domain, aspired by many students.
Recommended Read: 10 Lucrative Careers in the STEM Domain That You Can Pursue
5. Snake Milker
One of the most uncommon STEM careers is Snake Milking. Snake milkers extract venom from alive, highly poisonous snakes such as asps, pythons, rattlesnakes, etc. Since snake venom is highly medicinal, it is used to create anti-snake poison antidotes, treat Alzheimer’s disease, clotting disorders, and probably cancer, professionals in this field are in high demand in the medical industry.
The job requires lots of skill, courage, and knowledge on how to handle snakes. Most snake milkers have degrees in herpetology (study of amphibians and reptiles) or biology, along with advanced certifications and training in the snake milking profession.
6. Flavour Chemist
Flavour chemists, also called fragrance chemists, are scientists who invent flavours, tastes, and fragrances using chemistry and their taste buds and sense of smell. They dissect the natural flavours of the food and use aroma oils, chemicals, extracts, and essences to recreate the flavor/smell.
These scientists are usually heavily in demand in the food and cosmetic industry. Their flavours and fragrances are used in food, medications, beauty products, beverages, supplements, etc.
A degree in chemistry or a related field is needed to pursue a career in flavour chemistry.
7. Space Archaeologist
Space archaeology is the latest field in STEM careers, and an exciting one as well. It is the study of human space exploration and interpretation of human findings in space, through scientific and artificial means, along with the preservation of the findings into cultural heritage.
Space archaeologists use technology to engage with space and analyze satellite images to locate space-related artifacts and landmarks on Earth.
8. Music Machine Learning Engineer (Emerging Career)
If you are fostering a love for music, and are a STEM student looking for unconventional but emerging careers for science students, Music Machine Learning Engineer might be the perfect choice for you.
These engineers apply machine learning methodologies to data sets, that are used to personalize and optimize online music platforms and applications such as iTunes and Spotify.
Recommended Read: Welcome to the Future: 9 Emerging Careers for Science Students
9. Aquarist
Another one on the list of unusual STEM careers is the Aquarist. Aquarists are professionals who take care of marine life in aquariums and marine conservation centres. A part of their job is to work underwater to legally and safely breed marine animals, create aquatic exhibits, train the underwater animals and impart education to the public on marine life, and promote a healthy ecosystem for them.
A degree in marine biology or zoology is necessary to become an aquarist. Also if you like swimming or diving, you’ll probably love this career because it requires a mandatory certification in scuba diving.
10. Storm Tracker
If you’re intrigued by climate change, and weather phenomena such as tsunamis, and tornados, the STEM career of a storm tracker is the fit for you. The role of professionals in the field is to study the science behind storms and gather scientific data on extremities and calamities. A degree in science and meteorology is required to pursue this profession.
Conclusion
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