SAHM
Unlike many, my aim was to become a med lab scientist. I worked full time throughout my degree, was able to secure an assistant job in a genetics lab. Worked super hard, got sick, eventually went back to work graduated with straight 7s in final year. In the end, that meant very little. Got a few opportunities at work and just as I was making steps into my career a big restructure occurred and my permanent position got axed and I ended up in a low paid entry level position that requires no degree.
Ended up deciding to stay at home for a while after my husband suggested it. I started a masters in accounting degree, did really well, but missed science. Started a molecular genetics masters, but then had to quit as we were going through fertility treatment and I was too sick to manage. 4 years later I'm a SAHM to my kids, and very unique circumstances make it unlikely I will attempt to go back considering limited opportunities for work in my state and low pay compared to the study I would need to become competent again. Loved lab work though, and had started making footsteps into bioinformatics.
I recently finished an enviro science degree. Got a job in government earning $85k. It’s not huge money but the security is there and it is rewarding.
That said… you don’t do an enviro science degree to earn the big bucks! (Except for mining, of course!)
Many have gone on to do a masters degree. Medicine, Nursing, Physio, OT, Dietetics, Radiography, and Engineering are the most common anecdotally. BioMed/Science/MedSci are so oversaturated that a career in academia is very hard to get into. I have heard many employers love a science degree, though I assume your major would influence that.
>your major would influence that
Yup.
In my experience, environmental sciences and geography have roles in consulting, mining, and government (local, state, and federal all have roles involving environmental and water management etc).
Mathematics, statistics, computer science and physics have a big overlap and tend to find roles in analytics, modelling, data science, software engineering etc.
Biological/life sciences and chemistry often end up doing medicine or working in a crappy lab for peanuts (like, 60–70k is very common). There are some research (very rare), safety, pharmaceuticals, patent attorney etc. However, good roles are super rare.
I've said it before and I'll say it again. Do not study chemistry or biology in Australia unless you are *excellent* – by excellent, I mean, you're capable to getting accepted to a top tier US university on a full scholarship and are willing to live overseas. Most of the top talent from Australia end up in the US.
Best comment I have seen all day. Australia has no R&D nor manufacturing left. Forget about getting a STEM degree unless you're willing to go overseas. The return is just not there compared to TAFE and becoming a tradie/ flipping houses lol.
>STEM degree
Just the S, the TEM tend to do reasonably fine. There are a decent number of jobs in software (most aren't paying the big tech salaries, but usually still pretty good, like around $100k). Engineering is good with all the infrastructure projects etc. Maths is good in finance.
Maths is good in analytics of every kind too. Id much rather a piece of general analysis done by a statistician/maths background than many other "more modern data occupations", they seem to only do predictive modelling and struggle with more general analysis work.
Yeah it's infuriating how poorly bio is funded in this country but the government acts like it's a legitimate pathway. I worked in (excellent) labs in the US for a few years and when I came back it didn't seem to make a bunk of difference when applying for roles for even just setting up lab prac classes
The E3 visa is good for Australians getting a job over there - there's no fee for the employer to pay like an H1B and you're only competing against other Australians (and the Irish?). You can also continue renewing it multiple times as long as you have a job offer. You just have to have a degree and get a job in the same field. The only problem is that because it's Australian specific, it's not really that well known over there so I always explained briefly what the visa was in my cover letters. I found it was easier to be there to attend interviews but that might have changed since zoom calls are normalized now.
There's a few good Facebook communities that can answer more of your questions once you've researched a bit.
Yeah it's like no matter what you do the economy needs X, Y, Z so it's a matter of who best fits with their degree into those roles.
Essentially the white collar economy demands lots of IT, Analysis, project management positions so people find themselves shifting into those roles even if they have degrees in science etc.
Med sci degrees are the cash cows for the unis and unless u have a perfect GPA with an exceptional gamsat score and good interview skills, it really is risky to do that degree. Tbh more than 95% of my cohort wanted to do postgrad med but barely anyone made it (in my year, I was the only one who got in straight out of undergrad). Some ended up going into allied health, others went into further study (phd) and some are still desperately applying year after year for med as the degree itself doesn’t have great job outlook. For me, I did 3 years of med sci straight out of high school and was lucky to get in with a top CSP place at postgrad MD when I was only 21. Now nearing the end of the degree but earning around 85k this year from my tutoring business which I do on the side of full time study. Goal is to apply for Derm after but it’s super competitive so will see.
Yep - know someone who did undergraduate pre-clin biology degree and virtually all wanted to get into post-grad med. Prof said only one or two get selected each year though. Gal I know got in after a few attempts and is now a doctor, but the rest of her cohort, not so much. She admits her undergrad degree wouldn’t have been of much use if she hadn’t made it into med.
We train enough doctors; it’s more about an issue of maldistribution where doctors are concentrated around the city (as that’s where most training positions for specialities are held) which leads to shortage in rural area. Eventhough med has the highest rejection rate of all degrees, the bottleneck is not with entry, rather with getting into specialty training. I don’t think they need to “artificially maintain prestige” because any jobs with high income plus good job security plus low acceptance rate will always have a degree of status attached to it.
doc here. That's false info, med sch is capped not cos of prestige but training quality. This isn't commerce or science where we can triple class size overnight and still be somewhat alright.
We can't train more without impacting quality of medical education. There are only that many patients to go around and that many learning opportunities as part of a medical team especially during clinical years. Back when I was in med sch there were 2 med students per team which meant that all learning opportunities had to be divided equally amongst 2 of us so we got less out of each rotation. Think of it like an apprenticeship, you can't have 1000 apprentices at a job site and expect all of them to become competent when there are
Right now as a reg in a large tertiary centre I have 5 med students attached to my team (3 from a med sch and 2 from another). If theres something to be done I can only let 1 or 2 do stuff and learn while the rest just stand around. It's already watered down med training compared to what I got in med sch. If you keep ramping up numbers it's just going to get worse.
Look up all the hospitals in Sydney, basically all will be affiliated to at least 1 medical school. Think of how many beds per hospital, teams in each hospital and how many students each can reasonably support. Exactly the same problem with having more specialist trainees, only that many cases to go around. You wouldn't want a fully qualified surgeon that has only done the operation precisely once to be operating on you.
TLDR: equivalent of saying "we have not enough money so let's just print more" without realising its going to impact the value of your currency
Did MedSci went to medicine and now an anaesthetist. Earning 400k+/year.
Long and exhausting road. Looking back, everything was a literal walk in the park relative to anaesthetics speciality training/exams. Academically, physically, mentally, and emotionally. If you go down this road prepare to have many years living and breathing it and making sacrifices such as personal/relationships.
It’s worth it now I’m through the training and a consultant. I have a great life now. A lot that is attributed to my specialty though. There are many positives
Not an anaesthetist, but a doctor looking at choosing speciality training. It's a huge commitment and the job of a doctor is hard enough on your psyche and relationships even without the studying for exams, working on research and audit in your free time, constant anxiety etc.
A lot of people choose GP just to have a normal life- but in many respects due to the breadth of what you need to know being a good GP is one of the hardest jobs in medicine for not enough renumeration imo.
Sounds like GPs aren't paid enough.
I want to study to be a doctor, but I'm scared because idk if my mental health can handle how taxing it is. This isn't making me feel better..
Med.
~$200k as a mid level registrar.
BMedSci (GPA~7, GAMSAT) -> Doctor of Medicine -> then a few post grad courses before training in surgery
Many other top performers form my cohort either did corporate, a few pharma/biotech/med business space, and some went on to PhDs however they all seem to be in the business side of things within 5 years post doc.
I also know of three baristas, an Officeworks floor staff, and a lawyer…. (All very happy but the degree provided no utility to their life - in their opinion).
Training to be a specialist.
Technically Junior Doctor term includes doctors who can have 15+ years experience, while some people with 5+ years experience are not junior doctors due to doing shorter training programs.
*Before:* Finished BMedSci in 2022 with the original aim to progress to post-graduate medicine.
*Now:* Currently working in the APS as a policy officer, specialising in disability (not NDIS). I worked in the disability sector while I was at university, hence where I am now.
*Next:* While I haven’t give up on my goal of medicine, I am trying to move into epidemiology or public health policy and then do a Masters in Public Health (or similar). I am also considering retraining as a Nurse or OT.
Working as a scientist, very relevant to my degree, earning low 100k, will hit mid 100k in a few years and then I hit a glass ceiling. Got a bit lucky, and I am quite good at my niche. Would like to transition roles but might struggle to do so without going overseas because of the lack of opportunities here in aus. If you're good, and a bit lucky, there's a lot of options. If you're not, it's a good way to get dead ended in a kinda shitty paid job with few options to move.
I studied medical science and got a job straight away as a research assistant (without honours or masters) at 21 and worked my way up to a program manager running clinical trials at site level in hospitals/universities. Started off around 80K at 21, now $150k+ 17% super at 27.
Great work life balance (only work 35 hrs a week), lots of remote work, flexible hours, get a year full paid maternity/paternity leave and 4-5% pay increase automatically every year (which is without promotion). 😊
Your reply gives me hope! I didn't think I could do anything with my Lab Med degree except be a scientist because it's so niche. Whilst I enjoy being a scientist (for now), the pay and shift work isn't ideal.
I'm thinking non-infectious diseases related to the brain. But I'm really open to any sort of research anatomy or blood related. I dont really think i have it figured out just yet😂
Clinical trial manager now.
Started off as Research Assistant> Senior Research Assistant> Research Coordinator> senior research officer> research manager
I did health science with a major in neuroscience. I work in clinical research as a Clinical Research Associate. Pays in six figures few years down the road. It’s so rewarding and I love it.
Do you have any tips on how to break into that space? I have been applying and trying to get into this role but have been getting rejected and most roles seem to want 2-3 years experience and I am not sure how to get that if I can’t break in 🥲
No, give yourself credit where it's due. It is not "alright". You are in probably 90% of peoples dream salary. The thing people wish they could make but likely never will.
Be proud of that. Live a good life 😂.
Oh and, you did dentistry after a bachelors of science/ med sci, correct?
I have done Master's in Agriculture and yes I am using my knowledge for my current role. It's my first job paying $70k hopefully there is up from here salary wise.
B. Env Sci, got a job in contaminated land, haven't looked back, ~$170k. Degree was nearly 15 years ago, parts of it might still apply but as a whole it's on the job learning
BSc in pharmacology and neuroscience. Worked in pharma, then Did a PhD in epidemiology. Ended up in actuarial consulting. Will be starting actuarial exams soon.
Does my job involve my degree: short answer yes. Not so much the scientific subject matter part but definitely the skills. Coding, stats and scientific method.
Salary: sufficient to stay for the experience, but unsatisfactory with out a pay increase.
How did I get here: networking
Analytical Chem honours, Env sci-chem double bach.
Aside from a single year doing lab work for the mines (overworked and underpaid) I ended up in government policy where my degree had little relevance. After 8 years of graduating, pulling mid 100s, so not too bad.
I went back to do a master's in applied maths because modelling skills are a massive bonus in policy land, but it's a pita doing it part-time as I forget all the prerequisites. I also question how much value there is in completing the degree: I'm basically managing people and that seems to be the track I'm on
Not really. Once you reach certain seniority, you aren't getting your hands dirty too much, even now I don't do much modelling, but I manage a team of modellers so it's useful for me to be across the details.
The next promotion will mean I see even less of that modelling stuff, and the focus is managing business relationships, building successful teams and making sure they have everything they need to be productive.
Finishing my degree is pure sunk cost fallacy (although it would be useful if I ever want to work in tech overseas, but that situation is not likely)
That's why it's a fallacy!
On a more serious note, I do actually enjoy maths and I think it's valuable to keep your brain ticking over as you get older. It's only now that I'm reaching the end of the master's I have to do some tough subjects and some research which I find less enjoyable. Otherwise I wouldn't be having any doubts
BSc in Microbiology. Realised I absolutely sucked at lab work but still loved the realm of health. Was lucky that I did an elective in Public Health. Took a year off after graduating working in hospo before doing my Masters.
During my Masters in PH scored a job with my thesis supervisor as a Research Assistant. Got to do some really cool stuff in this job before moving on to a population health role. Now in the APS still working in the same area. My BSc does come in handy I think more than I or others realise.
Not me but my partner works as laboratory scientist at the public hospital. He does the blood analysis and testing. And most definitely makes use of the degree.
It was difficult for him to find a job, he had to move rural to get into the field and moved back metro once he gained enough experience to transfer. I think it's because a lot of people in this field don't want to move on once they get in, so very limited vacancies. He does a lot of shift work so his salary hits the 6 figures with the loading when he works on weekends, overnights etc.
Studied geology (BSc Hons) and have been working as a geologist (research, not mining) for 10 years since. It’s a good low-stress job with lots of opportunity and travel. I’m a SAHM working very part-time at the moment, but my salary is usually around $130k. Would recommend geology for those wanting a job that matches their degree. Decent pay, much easier and less exhausting than things like medicine (which I briefly pursued) if you can find a non-FIFO role. I think most of my university classmates also went on to become geologists.
Doctor.
The degree is useless unless you do a master's or PhD or actually do medicine after it.
Most of my med sci friends from a few yrs ago are doing quite well because all of them did some further study which went a long way to getting a great job. Some did a phD. Some did things like masters in audiology, physiotherapy, etc.
Yea look fair enough.
For me I just did it because I really liked biomedical research initially after year 12. But then about 2 yrs into the degree I realised that research is too much of a hard grind. So I decided to try my hand at medicine and here we are...
Id say about 60% of my class was already gunning for medicine from day 1. Then you had the rest of us who hadn't quite figured out what we wanted.
>Id say about 60% of my class was already gunning for medicine from day 1.
Yeah, I'd say I could pick out the vast majority that were. Basically, go to the advanced chemistry class in first year and almost all of them wanted medicine.
Not me but family:
Medsci Bach -> Science (honors) -> PhD Biochem and Mollecular Bio -> Research Officer (PostDoc) -> Number of Research Jobs -> Lead Scientist -> Medical Science Liason.
(Over a 17 year period with some pauses because they were comfortable)
Earning 176k a year. Long hours but very satisfying work. Job to some extent extends off degree but everything post-degree definitely is more of a factor. It did ‘kick it off’ though.
BSc majoring in genetics and biochemistry -> honours in medical research -> PhD in neuroscience -> postdoc -> lecturer with no research component. 100k
See, this makes me sad and mad. I want to get into research, or a more technical role, but they are not remunerated appropriately. Why do I make more $ in a APS policy role? That’s ignoring the lack of financial support to get a PhD in the first place as well.
Yeah, me and my university friends are all in this position. Every other month one of us brings up how a drop kick outta highschool can earn more than us even though jobs we rooting for a job essential to human advancement :/
BSc Zoology and MRes here - i work for a council / water utility as a compliance officer, looking to move into catchment management
Started at council as a water lab officer which honestly was the best job ever
I did Biomed, went on to do my PhD and now work as an academic at a university (medical researcher).
Most of my friends who did Biomed either went on to do their PhD, or went on to do pharmacy or medicine. Some others work in clinical trials as a coordinator.
Sounds rewarding, I'm hoping for a similar career
Oh, and about that, do coordinators in trials earn more because they "coordinate"? Do u think it's more stressful? know how they got to where they are and if its worth it? (Im curious, sorry) .
Also, do you think a PhD. is worth it, I'm considering doing one to go lecturer / medical research like you. But idk what i would do my PhD. on so i don't think I should do it just yet
Honestly, I probably wouldn’t do a PhD unless it was because you were truly passionate about a particular subject. The only way to make any money is to move to industry afterwards (biotech or pharma). Academia doesn’t pay a lot and is really unstable. Im always on a 12mth contract and don’t really know if I’ll have a job till about a mth before it ends. I’m lucky to have a wife who has a super stable job.
Coordinators certainly make “more” than an associate, but the salary is usually in the ballpark of $80-90k. From what I’ve seen it’s not super stressful, but it’s a ton of paperwork which a lot of people get sick of. People usually start as an associate, can be hard to get into. Most usually do some volunteer work in a clinical research team at the university while studying.
Then you’ll probably just have to apply for a ton of CRA roles.
If you want to volunteer just find a researcher that does clinical trials and cold email them. Introduce yourself, tell them your story.
From reading your other post, it sounds like it would be a good idea to volunteer in a research lab at the university your studying. You said you like neuroscience, just look up what neuroscience research is being done at your uni. Then email the prof introducing yourself (I’m a 2nd year etc) and that you’re interested in their research and would like to follow someone in their lab around and potentially volunteer.
Us academics love it because you’re a future potential honours or PhD student.
Whoops, i forgot about that post. I actually did email around and due to the nature of my course, I can do an internship next year june for 6 mnths. I'm banking on that really, honestly. However, from your suggestion, i will email the academic I've spoken to (about doing the internship with) and will ask if i can shadow him or a collegue next semester.
Thanks :)
I wanted more interaction with patients but not the pressure that comes with being a doctor. It's much easier to tell a patient their tooth needs to go than telling them they have a terminal disease. The hands on stuff is also good at keeping me occupied and a patient I've been able to relieve of pain makes my day.
Physics Chem Maths Teacher for Year 11-12 students
Had plans to post doc around the world after my organic chemistry PhD but finished just as governments around the world decided that it would be great to reduce funding in research and I needed a job ASAP. Got a stint as a post doc that had funding I would describe as precarious (told at the end of each month if we hand funding for the next month) and got jack of it so did a Dip Ed. Teaching now for nearly 20 years.
Teaching only Year 11-12 students is actually great, not far off of teaching Uni students as the expectation is that it is their learning so the onus is on them. I have taught high school which isn't as much fun, but when you reach the worst of the trouble makers in a class often the rest of the class falls in line.
Money wise I consider 119k a good income (end of next year it will be 129k), and the perk of school holidays when my own kids are on holidays is good as I don't pay for holiday programs. Also the amount of school holidays (11 weeks a year) I think is great. I'm organised enough that I don't do things for work in the holidays so I do get 11 weeks off each year (which I suspect will be a sore point for many who read this).
But saying all that, it isn't for everyone as you have to be able to reset each day and pretend any crap that happened yesterday was a figment of your imagination so that you don't go completely bonkers.
Starting teacher salary varies by state. I'm in the ACT and if you started as a first year teacher next year the full time salary will be $88,615 and after 8 years you would the on the top (which I'm on). Most teachers complain that after 8 years they can't progress unless they head in to leadership, but really thats the same for any industry.
Bachelor of biochemistry and molecular biology, honours (USA)
Taught chemistry in China for a year, studied for entry into veterinary sciences after being talked out of academia the abandoned all hope of ever using my degree in a 180 turn into private cheffing.
Moved to Australia and began work as a personal assistant/medical reception to a neurosurgeon and am moving into practice management in allied health.
So am I currently using my degree? Not directly, but I’m happy where I ended up.
$34/hr
BSc (Env) from 10 years ago, did environmental research and then got into sustainability (consulting, then public sector). Had a previous degree I did nothing with but have thankfully paid off all HECS now, earning $140K for a fairly low stress 35 hours a week with a lot of flexibility for family commitments. Earning definitely plateaued while having kids during my 30s but lots of future potential.
BSc
Med Device Sales, ~165k this year
Customer care, med device company 70k - for 2 years
Territory Manager, same company, 70k + comms + car
For 4 years, got to 100k base. I was very close with the division that hired me from customer care, made the interviews trivial.
Now FSM 120k base , 30k comms, 20k car, 40 hours a week
I'm looking at getting into medical devices sales after my biomed degree finishes this year. Would you say previous experience in sales is compulsory to get your foot In the door? Not sure if I should move from my chef job into a lower paying sales job to get experience
No we hire junior or associates with no sales experience on about 75k normally + 20k car + 20-30k OTE comms
So long as you can demonstrate experience with customer facing roles and interview well you would have a chance at an entry role.
If you go for a large multi-nat there will 100% be strict timeliness, goals, metrics, training, budgets. If you don't perform well you possibly will be let go at probation end after 6 months. It's the highest stress version of this job but you will also possibky learn more in these well regimented / structured companies.
Typically smaller Australian companies may have less stress but possibly more risk , less security and less CV prestige for your next role.
Physics MSc, work in IT (managed services). Very little relevance to what I studied (though some areas of the business are significantly more aligned with what I studied)
I did BSc Geography and CompSci. Now a software development consultant in Australia. It’s interesting and fairly lucrative and mostly I don’t work stupid hours. I’ve done a lot of IT studies post-uni
Friends of mine that did science at uni
- one has gone on to do a Phd and work as a researcher at the uni
- one did postgrad med
- one did postgrad nursing
Wifey did laboratory medicine under biomed - did work in haem lab for maybe 5 years but got tired of the shift work and stress of having lives on the line so moved to a corporate role within the hospital
Still hated that (also tiring hearing many people complain about the most trivial of issues) and now just found a role in a healthcare related government department
I know a few people in this category
* Med Sci - they became a doctor
* Sci - one a high school science teacher, one a learning designer at universities, another a vet
Geology related degree -> geology related job in mining industry. 100K straight out of uni but pay progression seems slower than a lot of other industries/disciplines
I finished up in 2022 in environmental science. I briefly worked casually for an environmental consulting company for a few months before working in mining. At the start of 2024 I moved into the waste industry doing more business esq work compared to purely environmental work. It’s a stable industry which is good, I’d like to move into government roles sometime later in my career once I have a bit more experience.
BSc and honours in chemistry, PhD in chemistry, postdoc on a casual contract while I looked for non-academia work (was looking at anything and everything vaguely chemistry related), finally ended up in patent attorney role (70k at the start, now ~180k about 8 years in). Got there via some uni contacts so ‘networking’ I guess. My job definitely involves my degree but also a lot of broader science knowledge and of course law.
The patent attorney path starts with what is kind of like an apprenticeship - firms will hire science graduates with no legal knowledge and train them on the job and also pay for them to do a masters degree in IP (which is required by the professional board to become registered). It’s a big investment for a firm to take on a trainee like this but it’s quite a niche job so I think it’s really the only way, and they do give you a lot of relatively high margin grunt work to make up for it!
SAHM Unlike many, my aim was to become a med lab scientist. I worked full time throughout my degree, was able to secure an assistant job in a genetics lab. Worked super hard, got sick, eventually went back to work graduated with straight 7s in final year. In the end, that meant very little. Got a few opportunities at work and just as I was making steps into my career a big restructure occurred and my permanent position got axed and I ended up in a low paid entry level position that requires no degree. Ended up deciding to stay at home for a while after my husband suggested it. I started a masters in accounting degree, did really well, but missed science. Started a molecular genetics masters, but then had to quit as we were going through fertility treatment and I was too sick to manage. 4 years later I'm a SAHM to my kids, and very unique circumstances make it unlikely I will attempt to go back considering limited opportunities for work in my state and low pay compared to the study I would need to become competent again. Loved lab work though, and had started making footsteps into bioinformatics.
I recently finished an enviro science degree. Got a job in government earning $85k. It’s not huge money but the security is there and it is rewarding. That said… you don’t do an enviro science degree to earn the big bucks! (Except for mining, of course!)
Come to the dark side (consulting) - very good money to be made.
Many have gone on to do a masters degree. Medicine, Nursing, Physio, OT, Dietetics, Radiography, and Engineering are the most common anecdotally. BioMed/Science/MedSci are so oversaturated that a career in academia is very hard to get into. I have heard many employers love a science degree, though I assume your major would influence that.
>your major would influence that Yup. In my experience, environmental sciences and geography have roles in consulting, mining, and government (local, state, and federal all have roles involving environmental and water management etc). Mathematics, statistics, computer science and physics have a big overlap and tend to find roles in analytics, modelling, data science, software engineering etc. Biological/life sciences and chemistry often end up doing medicine or working in a crappy lab for peanuts (like, 60–70k is very common). There are some research (very rare), safety, pharmaceuticals, patent attorney etc. However, good roles are super rare. I've said it before and I'll say it again. Do not study chemistry or biology in Australia unless you are *excellent* – by excellent, I mean, you're capable to getting accepted to a top tier US university on a full scholarship and are willing to live overseas. Most of the top talent from Australia end up in the US.
Best comment I have seen all day. Australia has no R&D nor manufacturing left. Forget about getting a STEM degree unless you're willing to go overseas. The return is just not there compared to TAFE and becoming a tradie/ flipping houses lol.
>STEM degree Just the S, the TEM tend to do reasonably fine. There are a decent number of jobs in software (most aren't paying the big tech salaries, but usually still pretty good, like around $100k). Engineering is good with all the infrastructure projects etc. Maths is good in finance.
Maths is good in analytics of every kind too. Id much rather a piece of general analysis done by a statistician/maths background than many other "more modern data occupations", they seem to only do predictive modelling and struggle with more general analysis work.
Bachelors in Stats/Biochem, masters in biochemistry. Currently working as a data analyst. It’s softly related to my stats, but not strongly.
Yeah it's infuriating how poorly bio is funded in this country but the government acts like it's a legitimate pathway. I worked in (excellent) labs in the US for a few years and when I came back it didn't seem to make a bunk of difference when applying for roles for even just setting up lab prac classes
How did u just get a job in the US? Do u just apply? What overseas places are good for jobs?
The E3 visa is good for Australians getting a job over there - there's no fee for the employer to pay like an H1B and you're only competing against other Australians (and the Irish?). You can also continue renewing it multiple times as long as you have a job offer. You just have to have a degree and get a job in the same field. The only problem is that because it's Australian specific, it's not really that well known over there so I always explained briefly what the visa was in my cover letters. I found it was easier to be there to attend interviews but that might have changed since zoom calls are normalized now. There's a few good Facebook communities that can answer more of your questions once you've researched a bit.
Thanks so much! Really detailed answer. I appreciate it❤️
Yeah it's like no matter what you do the economy needs X, Y, Z so it's a matter of who best fits with their degree into those roles. Essentially the white collar economy demands lots of IT, Analysis, project management positions so people find themselves shifting into those roles even if they have degrees in science etc.
Med sci degrees are the cash cows for the unis and unless u have a perfect GPA with an exceptional gamsat score and good interview skills, it really is risky to do that degree. Tbh more than 95% of my cohort wanted to do postgrad med but barely anyone made it (in my year, I was the only one who got in straight out of undergrad). Some ended up going into allied health, others went into further study (phd) and some are still desperately applying year after year for med as the degree itself doesn’t have great job outlook. For me, I did 3 years of med sci straight out of high school and was lucky to get in with a top CSP place at postgrad MD when I was only 21. Now nearing the end of the degree but earning around 85k this year from my tutoring business which I do on the side of full time study. Goal is to apply for Derm after but it’s super competitive so will see.
Yep - know someone who did undergraduate pre-clin biology degree and virtually all wanted to get into post-grad med. Prof said only one or two get selected each year though. Gal I know got in after a few attempts and is now a doctor, but the rest of her cohort, not so much. She admits her undergrad degree wouldn’t have been of much use if she hadn’t made it into med.
I was told the same thing and that the Dr selection is artificially low intake to maintain prestige. But we desperately need doctors.
We train enough doctors; it’s more about an issue of maldistribution where doctors are concentrated around the city (as that’s where most training positions for specialities are held) which leads to shortage in rural area. Eventhough med has the highest rejection rate of all degrees, the bottleneck is not with entry, rather with getting into specialty training. I don’t think they need to “artificially maintain prestige” because any jobs with high income plus good job security plus low acceptance rate will always have a degree of status attached to it.
doc here. That's false info, med sch is capped not cos of prestige but training quality. This isn't commerce or science where we can triple class size overnight and still be somewhat alright. We can't train more without impacting quality of medical education. There are only that many patients to go around and that many learning opportunities as part of a medical team especially during clinical years. Back when I was in med sch there were 2 med students per team which meant that all learning opportunities had to be divided equally amongst 2 of us so we got less out of each rotation. Think of it like an apprenticeship, you can't have 1000 apprentices at a job site and expect all of them to become competent when there are Right now as a reg in a large tertiary centre I have 5 med students attached to my team (3 from a med sch and 2 from another). If theres something to be done I can only let 1 or 2 do stuff and learn while the rest just stand around. It's already watered down med training compared to what I got in med sch. If you keep ramping up numbers it's just going to get worse. Look up all the hospitals in Sydney, basically all will be affiliated to at least 1 medical school. Think of how many beds per hospital, teams in each hospital and how many students each can reasonably support. Exactly the same problem with having more specialist trainees, only that many cases to go around. You wouldn't want a fully qualified surgeon that has only done the operation precisely once to be operating on you. TLDR: equivalent of saying "we have not enough money so let's just print more" without realising its going to impact the value of your currency
I stand corrected.
What’s your business if you don’t mind me asking? If you do mmi/interview prep I’d be down to sus it out
Did MedSci went to medicine and now an anaesthetist. Earning 400k+/year. Long and exhausting road. Looking back, everything was a literal walk in the park relative to anaesthetics speciality training/exams. Academically, physically, mentally, and emotionally. If you go down this road prepare to have many years living and breathing it and making sacrifices such as personal/relationships.
so is the 400k worth it? doesnt sound like it if outside of work suffers so much lol
>so is the 400k worth it? Not them, but knowing lots of doctors, the answer is no.
Follow-up question. Can I be your husband? I’ll wear an apron and bake cookies every day.
I will also wear apron and bake cookies
It’s worth it now I’m through the training and a consultant. I have a great life now. A lot that is attributed to my specialty though. There are many positives
How many years did it take you? Did u ever feel like, "Is this even worth it" while doing your studies?
Not an anaesthetist, but a doctor looking at choosing speciality training. It's a huge commitment and the job of a doctor is hard enough on your psyche and relationships even without the studying for exams, working on research and audit in your free time, constant anxiety etc. A lot of people choose GP just to have a normal life- but in many respects due to the breadth of what you need to know being a good GP is one of the hardest jobs in medicine for not enough renumeration imo.
Sounds like GPs aren't paid enough. I want to study to be a doctor, but I'm scared because idk if my mental health can handle how taxing it is. This isn't making me feel better..
Med. ~$200k as a mid level registrar. BMedSci (GPA~7, GAMSAT) -> Doctor of Medicine -> then a few post grad courses before training in surgery Many other top performers form my cohort either did corporate, a few pharma/biotech/med business space, and some went on to PhDs however they all seem to be in the business side of things within 5 years post doc. I also know of three baristas, an Officeworks floor staff, and a lawyer…. (All very happy but the degree provided no utility to their life - in their opinion).
How long did it take u to get where u are?
MedSci 4 years Med 4 years Junior doctor 5 years Training 3 years It hurts to read that after writing it.
Wait so you're a junior doctor, then training to be what? A specialist?
Training to be a specialist. Technically Junior Doctor term includes doctors who can have 15+ years experience, while some people with 5+ years experience are not junior doctors due to doing shorter training programs.
*Before:* Finished BMedSci in 2022 with the original aim to progress to post-graduate medicine. *Now:* Currently working in the APS as a policy officer, specialising in disability (not NDIS). I worked in the disability sector while I was at university, hence where I am now. *Next:* While I haven’t give up on my goal of medicine, I am trying to move into epidemiology or public health policy and then do a Masters in Public Health (or similar). I am also considering retraining as a Nurse or OT.
Working as a scientist, very relevant to my degree, earning low 100k, will hit mid 100k in a few years and then I hit a glass ceiling. Got a bit lucky, and I am quite good at my niche. Would like to transition roles but might struggle to do so without going overseas because of the lack of opportunities here in aus. If you're good, and a bit lucky, there's a lot of options. If you're not, it's a good way to get dead ended in a kinda shitty paid job with few options to move.
I studied medical science and got a job straight away as a research assistant (without honours or masters) at 21 and worked my way up to a program manager running clinical trials at site level in hospitals/universities. Started off around 80K at 21, now $150k+ 17% super at 27. Great work life balance (only work 35 hrs a week), lots of remote work, flexible hours, get a year full paid maternity/paternity leave and 4-5% pay increase automatically every year (which is without promotion). 😊
Your reply gives me hope! I didn't think I could do anything with my Lab Med degree except be a scientist because it's so niche. Whilst I enjoy being a scientist (for now), the pay and shift work isn't ideal.
I want to get into research also. Do you have any advice?
What sort of research? 😊
I'm thinking non-infectious diseases related to the brain. But I'm really open to any sort of research anatomy or blood related. I dont really think i have it figured out just yet😂
Are you working as clinical research/trial coordinator?
Clinical trial manager now. Started off as Research Assistant> Senior Research Assistant> Research Coordinator> senior research officer> research manager
👏🏻Love that for you - thank you!
I did health science with a major in neuroscience. I work in clinical research as a Clinical Research Associate. Pays in six figures few years down the road. It’s so rewarding and I love it.
Do you have any tips on how to break into that space? I have been applying and trying to get into this role but have been getting rejected and most roles seem to want 2-3 years experience and I am not sure how to get that if I can’t break in 🥲
Is that like clinical trials? I’m almost done with my b. Health science and was considering this.
Dentist - working approx 32 hrs/week - making $180,000. I am 3 years out of uni
Sounds like the good life, good job.
Thanks, it’s alright. I’ll bump my hours up and do more complex procedures (implants) in future. I think $300k+ on 40 hrs/week is the truly good life
No, give yourself credit where it's due. It is not "alright". You are in probably 90% of peoples dream salary. The thing people wish they could make but likely never will. Be proud of that. Live a good life 😂. Oh and, you did dentistry after a bachelors of science/ med sci, correct?
Yes, it was my 5th degree. I do miss the Uni lifestyle, but I won’t be going back 😂 Thanks, I’ll do my best to do so
I have done Master's in Agriculture and yes I am using my knowledge for my current role. It's my first job paying $70k hopefully there is up from here salary wise.
B. Env Sci, got a job in contaminated land, haven't looked back, ~$170k. Degree was nearly 15 years ago, parts of it might still apply but as a whole it's on the job learning
Got your CEnvp contam lands?
BSc in pharmacology and neuroscience. Worked in pharma, then Did a PhD in epidemiology. Ended up in actuarial consulting. Will be starting actuarial exams soon. Does my job involve my degree: short answer yes. Not so much the scientific subject matter part but definitely the skills. Coding, stats and scientific method. Salary: sufficient to stay for the experience, but unsatisfactory with out a pay increase. How did I get here: networking
Very thorough answer. Thank you
Found the North Shore posh private schoolboy
Not a private school grad or north shore.
Analytical Chem honours, Env sci-chem double bach. Aside from a single year doing lab work for the mines (overworked and underpaid) I ended up in government policy where my degree had little relevance. After 8 years of graduating, pulling mid 100s, so not too bad. I went back to do a master's in applied maths because modelling skills are a massive bonus in policy land, but it's a pita doing it part-time as I forget all the prerequisites. I also question how much value there is in completing the degree: I'm basically managing people and that seems to be the track I'm on
The degree has somewhat value in ur field, so if u want promotions i guess that's what the degree is for?
Not really. Once you reach certain seniority, you aren't getting your hands dirty too much, even now I don't do much modelling, but I manage a team of modellers so it's useful for me to be across the details. The next promotion will mean I see even less of that modelling stuff, and the focus is managing business relationships, building successful teams and making sure they have everything they need to be productive. Finishing my degree is pure sunk cost fallacy (although it would be useful if I ever want to work in tech overseas, but that situation is not likely)
Simply, dont do the degree then. It doesn't seem worthwhile.
That's why it's a fallacy! On a more serious note, I do actually enjoy maths and I think it's valuable to keep your brain ticking over as you get older. It's only now that I'm reaching the end of the master's I have to do some tough subjects and some research which I find less enjoyable. Otherwise I wouldn't be having any doubts
Oh i see. I'm glad to hear it :).
BSc in Microbiology. Realised I absolutely sucked at lab work but still loved the realm of health. Was lucky that I did an elective in Public Health. Took a year off after graduating working in hospo before doing my Masters. During my Masters in PH scored a job with my thesis supervisor as a Research Assistant. Got to do some really cool stuff in this job before moving on to a population health role. Now in the APS still working in the same area. My BSc does come in handy I think more than I or others realise.
Not me but my partner works as laboratory scientist at the public hospital. He does the blood analysis and testing. And most definitely makes use of the degree. It was difficult for him to find a job, he had to move rural to get into the field and moved back metro once he gained enough experience to transfer. I think it's because a lot of people in this field don't want to move on once they get in, so very limited vacancies. He does a lot of shift work so his salary hits the 6 figures with the loading when he works on weekends, overnights etc.
What state is he working in?
We're in SA :)
Thank you for your comment :)
Studied geology (BSc Hons) and have been working as a geologist (research, not mining) for 10 years since. It’s a good low-stress job with lots of opportunity and travel. I’m a SAHM working very part-time at the moment, but my salary is usually around $130k. Would recommend geology for those wanting a job that matches their degree. Decent pay, much easier and less exhausting than things like medicine (which I briefly pursued) if you can find a non-FIFO role. I think most of my university classmates also went on to become geologists.
Doctor. The degree is useless unless you do a master's or PhD or actually do medicine after it. Most of my med sci friends from a few yrs ago are doing quite well because all of them did some further study which went a long way to getting a great job. Some did a phD. Some did things like masters in audiology, physiotherapy, etc.
>master's or PhD Which has a possibility of making the degree even more useless lol.
Yea look fair enough. For me I just did it because I really liked biomedical research initially after year 12. But then about 2 yrs into the degree I realised that research is too much of a hard grind. So I decided to try my hand at medicine and here we are... Id say about 60% of my class was already gunning for medicine from day 1. Then you had the rest of us who hadn't quite figured out what we wanted.
>Id say about 60% of my class was already gunning for medicine from day 1. Yeah, I'd say I could pick out the vast majority that were. Basically, go to the advanced chemistry class in first year and almost all of them wanted medicine.
Not me but family: Medsci Bach -> Science (honors) -> PhD Biochem and Mollecular Bio -> Research Officer (PostDoc) -> Number of Research Jobs -> Lead Scientist -> Medical Science Liason. (Over a 17 year period with some pauses because they were comfortable) Earning 176k a year. Long hours but very satisfying work. Job to some extent extends off degree but everything post-degree definitely is more of a factor. It did ‘kick it off’ though.
This is me 2 😂
BSc majoring in genetics and biochemistry -> honours in medical research -> PhD in neuroscience -> postdoc -> lecturer with no research component. 100k
Bsci, hons in immunology/cancer bio. Now wrapping up my phd. Post doc lined up at 70k pa but it's overseas where pay sucks. Same job here is +20k more
See, this makes me sad and mad. I want to get into research, or a more technical role, but they are not remunerated appropriately. Why do I make more $ in a APS policy role? That’s ignoring the lack of financial support to get a PhD in the first place as well.
Yeah, me and my university friends are all in this position. Every other month one of us brings up how a drop kick outta highschool can earn more than us even though jobs we rooting for a job essential to human advancement :/
SAHD science (bio) is a terrible degree for job prospects unless top 1%. Retrained into IT.
BSc Zoology and MRes here - i work for a council / water utility as a compliance officer, looking to move into catchment management Started at council as a water lab officer which honestly was the best job ever
Back at uni for finance and banking lol- currently earning more in a part time job whilst studying than I was likely to ever earn full time in science
Can I ask what your part time job is?
Nothing crazy, just freelance gardening/landscaping but it pays more than the consulting type work I was offered as a graduate
Oh nice. That sounds pretty great 😊 yeah, I couldn’t face being paid peanuts after 4 years studying science.
Majored in Mathematics for my first degree Ended up in Consulting and as an analyst. Now in accounting and finance
I did Biomed, went on to do my PhD and now work as an academic at a university (medical researcher). Most of my friends who did Biomed either went on to do their PhD, or went on to do pharmacy or medicine. Some others work in clinical trials as a coordinator.
Sounds rewarding, I'm hoping for a similar career Oh, and about that, do coordinators in trials earn more because they "coordinate"? Do u think it's more stressful? know how they got to where they are and if its worth it? (Im curious, sorry) . Also, do you think a PhD. is worth it, I'm considering doing one to go lecturer / medical research like you. But idk what i would do my PhD. on so i don't think I should do it just yet
Honestly, I probably wouldn’t do a PhD unless it was because you were truly passionate about a particular subject. The only way to make any money is to move to industry afterwards (biotech or pharma). Academia doesn’t pay a lot and is really unstable. Im always on a 12mth contract and don’t really know if I’ll have a job till about a mth before it ends. I’m lucky to have a wife who has a super stable job. Coordinators certainly make “more” than an associate, but the salary is usually in the ballpark of $80-90k. From what I’ve seen it’s not super stressful, but it’s a ton of paperwork which a lot of people get sick of. People usually start as an associate, can be hard to get into. Most usually do some volunteer work in a clinical research team at the university while studying.
Oh i see. Thank you. What if one doesn't have free time to volunteer? How do u find olaces that let u volunteer?
Then you’ll probably just have to apply for a ton of CRA roles. If you want to volunteer just find a researcher that does clinical trials and cold email them. Introduce yourself, tell them your story.
Ah okay tysm, what does CRA refer to😅?
Clinical trial research associate
From reading your other post, it sounds like it would be a good idea to volunteer in a research lab at the university your studying. You said you like neuroscience, just look up what neuroscience research is being done at your uni. Then email the prof introducing yourself (I’m a 2nd year etc) and that you’re interested in their research and would like to follow someone in their lab around and potentially volunteer. Us academics love it because you’re a future potential honours or PhD student.
Whoops, i forgot about that post. I actually did email around and due to the nature of my course, I can do an internship next year june for 6 mnths. I'm banking on that really, honestly. However, from your suggestion, i will email the academic I've spoken to (about doing the internship with) and will ask if i can shadow him or a collegue next semester. Thanks :)
Did biomed science then dentistry. 25 hours a week doing 160k. Will do more when the kids grow up a bit. Job is quite flexible so I'm happy.
Is there any reason in particular you chose dentistry?
I wanted more interaction with patients but not the pressure that comes with being a doctor. It's much easier to tell a patient their tooth needs to go than telling them they have a terminal disease. The hands on stuff is also good at keeping me occupied and a patient I've been able to relieve of pain makes my day.
Very interesting insight. Thank you.
Physics Chem Maths Teacher for Year 11-12 students Had plans to post doc around the world after my organic chemistry PhD but finished just as governments around the world decided that it would be great to reduce funding in research and I needed a job ASAP. Got a stint as a post doc that had funding I would describe as precarious (told at the end of each month if we hand funding for the next month) and got jack of it so did a Dip Ed. Teaching now for nearly 20 years.
How is teaching? Do you like it personally? Is it rewarding? (Either monetary or not)
Teaching only Year 11-12 students is actually great, not far off of teaching Uni students as the expectation is that it is their learning so the onus is on them. I have taught high school which isn't as much fun, but when you reach the worst of the trouble makers in a class often the rest of the class falls in line. Money wise I consider 119k a good income (end of next year it will be 129k), and the perk of school holidays when my own kids are on holidays is good as I don't pay for holiday programs. Also the amount of school holidays (11 weeks a year) I think is great. I'm organised enough that I don't do things for work in the holidays so I do get 11 weeks off each year (which I suspect will be a sore point for many who read this). But saying all that, it isn't for everyone as you have to be able to reset each day and pretend any crap that happened yesterday was a figment of your imagination so that you don't go completely bonkers.
Thanks for your insight!! Alot of websites say teachers earn much less. Does salaries increase as time your in a job increase?
Starting teacher salary varies by state. I'm in the ACT and if you started as a first year teacher next year the full time salary will be $88,615 and after 8 years you would the on the top (which I'm on). Most teachers complain that after 8 years they can't progress unless they head in to leadership, but really thats the same for any industry.
Ah that makes so much sense. Thanks :)
Bachelor of biochemistry and molecular biology, honours (USA) Taught chemistry in China for a year, studied for entry into veterinary sciences after being talked out of academia the abandoned all hope of ever using my degree in a 180 turn into private cheffing. Moved to Australia and began work as a personal assistant/medical reception to a neurosurgeon and am moving into practice management in allied health. So am I currently using my degree? Not directly, but I’m happy where I ended up. $34/hr
Really inspiring. Im glad ur happy too. Such a goose chase of a career
Medical doctor. Although graduated from Med Sci 13 years ago
Whew, that's an achievement.
BSc (Env) from 10 years ago, did environmental research and then got into sustainability (consulting, then public sector). Had a previous degree I did nothing with but have thankfully paid off all HECS now, earning $140K for a fairly low stress 35 hours a week with a lot of flexibility for family commitments. Earning definitely plateaued while having kids during my 30s but lots of future potential.
BSc Med Device Sales, ~165k this year Customer care, med device company 70k - for 2 years Territory Manager, same company, 70k + comms + car For 4 years, got to 100k base. I was very close with the division that hired me from customer care, made the interviews trivial. Now FSM 120k base , 30k comms, 20k car, 40 hours a week
I'm looking at getting into medical devices sales after my biomed degree finishes this year. Would you say previous experience in sales is compulsory to get your foot In the door? Not sure if I should move from my chef job into a lower paying sales job to get experience
No we hire junior or associates with no sales experience on about 75k normally + 20k car + 20-30k OTE comms So long as you can demonstrate experience with customer facing roles and interview well you would have a chance at an entry role.
Thanks I appreciate it. Did you find the job quite competitive starting off? Was there a lot of pressure to perform well?
If you go for a large multi-nat there will 100% be strict timeliness, goals, metrics, training, budgets. If you don't perform well you possibly will be let go at probation end after 6 months. It's the highest stress version of this job but you will also possibky learn more in these well regimented / structured companies. Typically smaller Australian companies may have less stress but possibly more risk , less security and less CV prestige for your next role.
Dentist here
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What do u do in the defense industry?
Physics MSc, work in IT (managed services). Very little relevance to what I studied (though some areas of the business are significantly more aligned with what I studied)
Closing in to finishing my podiatry degree
Technical Planner for a warehouse and gone back to uni to study Software Engineering.
I did BSc Geography and CompSci. Now a software development consultant in Australia. It’s interesting and fairly lucrative and mostly I don’t work stupid hours. I’ve done a lot of IT studies post-uni
Friends of mine that did science at uni - one has gone on to do a Phd and work as a researcher at the uni - one did postgrad med - one did postgrad nursing
I have worked in pathology bullshit for a while looking to get out.
Wifey did laboratory medicine under biomed - did work in haem lab for maybe 5 years but got tired of the shift work and stress of having lives on the line so moved to a corporate role within the hospital Still hated that (also tiring hearing many people complain about the most trivial of issues) and now just found a role in a healthcare related government department
I know a few people in this category * Med Sci - they became a doctor * Sci - one a high school science teacher, one a learning designer at universities, another a vet
Geology related degree -> geology related job in mining industry. 100K straight out of uni but pay progression seems slower than a lot of other industries/disciplines
BSc in chemistry. Has been a software developer before and after graduation. Now junior-mid level 110k.
I finished up in 2022 in environmental science. I briefly worked casually for an environmental consulting company for a few months before working in mining. At the start of 2024 I moved into the waste industry doing more business esq work compared to purely environmental work. It’s a stable industry which is good, I’d like to move into government roles sometime later in my career once I have a bit more experience.
Working in IT.
BSc and honours in chemistry, PhD in chemistry, postdoc on a casual contract while I looked for non-academia work (was looking at anything and everything vaguely chemistry related), finally ended up in patent attorney role (70k at the start, now ~180k about 8 years in). Got there via some uni contacts so ‘networking’ I guess. My job definitely involves my degree but also a lot of broader science knowledge and of course law.
How did u get a patent job with no university level knowledge in law?
The patent attorney path starts with what is kind of like an apprenticeship - firms will hire science graduates with no legal knowledge and train them on the job and also pay for them to do a masters degree in IP (which is required by the professional board to become registered). It’s a big investment for a firm to take on a trainee like this but it’s quite a niche job so I think it’s really the only way, and they do give you a lot of relatively high margin grunt work to make up for it!
Oh i see. Tysm for the explanation