The Surrey scientific industry is a broad and exciting area of work that encompasses a number of sectors such as medical, environment, pharmaceutical, life science and healthcare. Surrey has grown to become one of the leading UK locations for the science industry, with the Surrey Research Park in Guildford being home to some of the world's most high profile scientific companies. Acclaimed organisations such as Novartis and Pfizer are also based in the county and this has only further boosted Surrey's reputation as a scientific hub. Local specialist science recruitment agencies will have knowledge and expertise specific to the Surrey market and will be adept at delivering permanent, temporary or contract staffing solutions.
Average Salaries
With job roles including lab technician, analytical chemist, forensic scientist and meteorologist, working conditions and salaries within the scientific industry can vary. There are currently around 15K students in and around Surrey studying towards a science related degree, and as graduate they will be able to expect a starting salary of between £20K-£30K per annum. More experienced professionals within biotechnology or medical science tend to be some of the most well paid staff with earnings commonly rising above £45K. Other high paying jobs include aerospace engineer, research physicist and neuroscientist. The latter may find job opportunities at the Lilly Research Centre in Erl Wood, which is a centre of excellence for areas such as stem cell and neuroscience research.
The majority of candidates entering the science industry will need to have obtained a science-related degree. The necessary qualification depends upon the exact job role, however candidates applying for a position such as forensic scientist or technician would be accepted with most science based degrees. More lucrative or management roles might require postgraduate study, with a PhD being particularly valued. The scientific field tends to be highly academic and candidates have to be able to demonstrate numeracy, technical and research skills in order to be successful in the field. Surrey science recruitment agencies will have the necessary resources and industry experience to source suitable science candidates for local organisations within Surrey, the surrounding home counties and the wider South East area.