Audit CV Writing: Our Advice For Auditors When Writing A CV
In this guide Audit CV Writing we’ll share our advice for auditors preparing for their next career move. Read on... Read more...
The world of science is vast and ever-evolving, offering a wide range of career paths for those with a scientist CV, a curious mind and a passion for discovery.
Here are just a few of the many exciting careers you can pursue as a scientist:
There are plenty of other options too, of course. With so many options available, you’re sure to find a field that aligns with your interests and skills.
In this guide we’ll cover what to think about when putting together a scientist CV, because given the variety of careers available, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to take.
The conundrum for scientists applying for roles is neatly summarised by the career services office at Harvard University – CV, Resume or Something In Between?
In short, how to structure a scientist CV depends on a few key considerations:
Academic CVs radically differ from those for other professions in terms of structure and sections.
In most industries a CV tends to include contact details, a personal statement, skills section, career history, education or qualifications, hobbies / interests and the words ‘References available on request’ or something similar.
But on an academic science CV, you’ll often see some – or all – of the following sections in addition:
Moreover, on an academic CV, you’re more likely to expand the education section and put it near the top.
Let’s take a look at each of these sections and what to include.
William Jones
[Address] – [Phone number] – [Email address]
Highly motivated and meticulous biomedical scientist with a passion for immunology research and a strong commitment to scientific education. Possesses seven years of experience in laboratory research techniques and a proven ability to design, conduct, and analyse complex immunological projects. Seeks a research-focused position to contribute expertise and continue exploring the intricate mechanisms of the immune system.
University of Edinburgh, UK, 2016-2020
Postdoctoral Researcher, University College London (UCL), London, UK (2020-Present)
Ph.D. Research Assistant, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK (2016-2020)
Teaching Assistant, Biomedical Sciences Department, University of Edinburgh, (2018-2020)
The academic format may not be right for the role in science you’re going for though. Why?
Take a look at this article by Isaiah Hankel PhD on the difference between an academic and industry CV on Cheeky Scientist. Now you know!
The goal of an industry CV is to help employers see the value you can bring to their company. Tailor it to accentuate your strengths and highlight the most relevant skills you have to offer.
An industry CV is only one or two pages long. You don’t need to go into so much detail about your education and it’s not necessarily to provide all the reference details on the document.
A typical CV prioritises an attention-grabbing personal statement with standout information that other candidates may not have. The rest of the first page should showcase your greatest achievements and accomplishments – using work, education or skills sections.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write a CV for industry roles. And if you’re looking for a computer science CV template, we have that too!
No matter which format you choose, make sure you master the basics.
Check your CV thoroughly before sending – fix spelling and grammar mistakes, or anything else that will make potential employers stop reading.
Give as many relevant and impressive examples from your career so far as you can, try to quantify your work achievements to date. These facts and figures will have more impact in the right context – if you’re struggling to explain your best ones, use the STAR method.
A strong CV features plenty of evidence to back up its claims, otherwise the achievements can sound too generalised, so employers struggle to see how you stand out.
If you need to give a long or complex STAR example, consider including it in your cover letter or supporting statement instead.
Always think about how you can customise your CV to each role you apply for, tailored to the job description.
We hope this article has given you some useful guidance for writing a scientist CV.
Give yourself the best chance possible with an outstanding, well-written CV, because there’s plenty of competition out there for the most desirable roles.
Remember that potential employers have lots of CVs to look through, so make sure you have a strong opening section to hold their attention.
Whichever format you choose, ensure it’s one that draws attention to your strengths – here are the different types of CV. In the industry CV format, you can choose between a skills-based one or the reverse-chronological classic style.
Start with the basics, then focus on including the right information for the job description. Provide evidence to back up your achievements.
If you need any help, we’re experts at writing professional CVs. That includes CVs for scientists – so please don’t hesitate to get in touch for more details.
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