Summary
Role of the researcher
Look for :
The researcher designs and conducts research projects. For this he must:
- observe ;
- analyze ;
- formulate hypotheses;
- calculate;
- experiment.
Depending on his chosen field, he carries out experiments that can be more or less long and dangerous… He may also be required to file licenses and patents.
Communicate :
The researcher participates in seminars and conferences, in France or abroad. They allow him:
- to publicize its work;
- to find out what is happening in other laboratories;
- to find out about new research directions…
The researcher can also write articles in specialized journals and take an interest in scientific publications.
To teach :
In parallel with his activities centered on scientific production, the researcher can provide a University education. It trains doctoral students and monitors their work.
Researcher working conditions
Different places:
Researchers can work:
- in public research organizations such as the CNRS (National Center for Scientific Studies);
- in industrial and commercial establishments such as the CNES (National Center for Space Studies)
- in private companies.
Different conditions:
The hours follow each other but are not alike. When he is not in front of his computer screen, the researcher can:
- carry out experiments in laboratory;
- delivering courses at the university;
- attend a conference abroad…
Different facilities:
Given this somewhat unusual schedule, the researcher does not really have fixed hours. He manages his time as he pleases, but can stay late in the lab when the experiments require it. He also spends a considerable amount of time traveling.
How much does a researcher earn?
The beginner researcher, in the Public Service, earns, without bonuses and allowances, between 2,300 and 2,500 € gross monthly. More experienced, his salary can reach nearly €4,000.
But this only includes retribution for programs of research. Copyright may be added, in particular, when the researcher manages to publish works.
Training to become a researcher
PhD:
The researcher may come from a major engineering school. But above all, he very often holds a doctorate either:
- in the field of pure sciences;
- or in a field of human sciences.
The doctorate is prepared in 3 years minimum, after the master 2 of research.
After the thesis:
The young researcher often does a post-doctorate, in the form of a fixed-term contract, in an institute or a company. He can carry out this post-doctorate in France, but it is strongly recommended to do so abroad.
During this period, he published articles in the specialized press.
Qualifications needed to become a researcher
Innovate:
The researcher must be a specialist in his discipline. It must follow the various developments and publications. Passionate about his field, he always seeks to know more about it.
Being comfortable speaking:
The researcher must report on the progress of his work. He must be comfortable communicating in public, whether in front of an assembly of specialists, or in front of his students.
Ability to speak English:
Whatever his field, the researcher must be able to read, write and speak at least English.
For more information, you can consult the website of the Ministry for Research: www.recherche.gouv.fr.
Content updated on 05/29/2012