32 Disadvantages of Being an Applied Scientist (Lab Rats Unite!)

Considering a career as an applied scientist?

It’s easy to get lost in the fascination:

Opportunity to innovate.
Potential for significant contributions to society.
The exhilaration of turning theories into practical applications.

But there’s another side to this coin.

Today, we’re venturing deep. Unbelievably deep.

Into the challenging, the strenuous, and the downright demanding aspects of being an applied scientist.

Complex research processes? Check.

Initial investment in education and training? Definitely.

Mental strain from solving multifaceted problems? Absolutely.

And let’s not overlook the pressure of constant innovation.

So, if you’re pondering about embarking on a journey in applied sciences, or simply curious about what’s behind those lab doors and research papers…

Keep reading.

You’re about to gain a comprehensive understanding of the disadvantages of being an applied scientist.

Contents show

High Expectations for Innovation and Practical Results

Applied scientists are under considerable pressure to innovate and deliver practical results consistently.

Their role requires not only the application of existing scientific knowledge but also the creation of new methodologies and technologies.

This can lead to a high-stress environment where the expectation is not just to maintain the status quo but to push boundaries and achieve breakthroughs.

The demands for original, impactful work can be intense and unrelenting.

Furthermore, the results of their research and development efforts must be practical and applicable in real-world scenarios, which adds another layer of complexity and challenge to their job.

While this can be intellectually stimulating, it can also be overwhelming and lead to burnout if not managed effectively.

Constant Need for Up-to-Date Specialized Knowledge

Applied Scientists are expected to have a broad range of up-to-date knowledge in their specific field.

This requires a constant commitment to learning and developing new skills, often outside of regular work hours.

There is an ongoing need to stay current with the latest scientific research, methods, and technology, which can change rapidly.

This can lead to pressure and stress, as there’s always more to learn and understand.

Failure to stay updated can result in outdated knowledge and methods, which can affect the quality of work and the scientist’s credibility in their field.

While this continuous learning can be intellectually stimulating, it can also be time-consuming and demanding.

Pressure to Secure Funding and Grants for Research

Applied scientists often face the stressful task of securing funding and grants for their research projects.

Unlike some other jobs where the resources for work are provided by the employer, applied scientists often have to compete for limited funding opportunities.

They must write grant proposals, which can be a time-consuming and challenging process, and even then, there is no guarantee the proposal will be accepted.

The pressure to secure enough funding can be immense, especially when the success of a research project or even a scientist’s career could hinge on it.

This constant search for funding can distract from the actual research work and may lead to job dissatisfaction over time.

Balancing Fundamental Research With Commercial Objectives

Applied Scientists often find themselves in a challenging position where they need to balance their fundamental research with the commercial objectives of the organization they work for.

They are expected to conduct research, develop new concepts, and contribute to the scientific community while also contributing to the commercial success of their organization.

This often means that they have to divert their attention from pure scientific exploration and instead focus on developing products or processes that can be commercialized.

Moreover, there might be pressure to compromise on the quality of research or bypass certain investigative steps to meet business timelines and profit goals.

This can be frustrating for scientists who are passionate about their research and wish to delve deeper into their field without commercial constraints.

Intellectual Property and Patenting Issues

Applied Scientists often deal with issues related to intellectual property and patenting.

When working on a project, they may come up with innovative ideas, methods, or products that could be patented.

However, the process of obtaining a patent is complex, time-consuming, and costly.

There may also be conflicts about who owns the intellectual property, especially when working in a team or for a company.

If the scientist works for a company, the company often retains the rights to the invention, which can be frustrating for the individual who actually developed the idea.

Moreover, if a patent is granted, the scientist must also deal with potential patent infringements, which can lead to costly and time-consuming legal disputes.

High Competition Within Academic and Commercial Sectors

The field of applied science is a highly competitive one, with many aspiring scientists vying for limited positions in both the academic and commercial sectors.

This heightened competition can make it challenging for individuals to secure positions and can add a layer of stress to the job-seeking process.

In academia, for instance, there are often more PhD holders than there are available faculty positions, leading many to spend years in postdoctoral positions or to seek employment outside of academia.

Similarly, within the commercial sector, companies often seek the most highly skilled and experienced candidates, which can make it difficult for recent graduates or those with less experience to break into the field.

Furthermore, the constant pressure to publish, innovate, and secure funding can lead to a high-stress work environment.

Risk of Research Being Misused or Unethically Applied

As an Applied Scientist, one of the potential disadvantages is the risk of your research being misused or unethically applied.

This could be by individuals, organizations, or governments who may use your findings for purposes you didn’t intend, or which may be harmful or unethical.

This could range from using your research in ways that could potentially harm the environment, to applying it in a manner that infringes on people’s privacy or civil liberties.

This risk can cause stress and moral dilemmas for Applied Scientists, as they may feel responsible for the negative impacts of their work even though they had no control over how their research was used.

Challenges in Translating Theoretical Research Into Practical Solutions

Applied scientists often face difficulties in converting theoretical research into practical, real-world solutions.

While the theoretical understanding of scientific principles is essential, applying them to solve practical problems can be complex and often requires innovative thinking.

It also involves dealing with real-world constraints and limitations, such as technological, economic, and logistical challenges.

Furthermore, applied scientists may also have to deal with the frustration of their solutions not being as effective in practice as they were in theory.

This can lead to numerous trials and errors, which can be time-consuming and demanding.

Hence, the process of turning theory into application can be a significant challenge for those in this role.

Potential Isolation From Mainstream Scientific Community

Applied Scientists often work in industry-specific roles or in research and development departments of corporations.

While these roles can offer interesting and unique challenges, they can sometimes feel isolating from the mainstream scientific community.

Unlike academic scientists, who regularly interact with peers at conferences and events, applied scientists may have fewer opportunities for such networking and collaboration.

This can limit exposure to new ideas and trends in the broader scientific field.

Furthermore, the proprietary nature of industrial research can result in a lack of public recognition for their work, as findings are often kept confidential and not published in scientific journals.

This can lead to a sense of professional isolation and a feeling of being disconnected from the scientific community as a whole.

Managing Workloads Across Research, Teaching, and Administration

Applied scientists often juggle multiple responsibilities that extend beyond research.

They are frequently involved in teaching, mentoring students, and contributing to administrative tasks.

This can lead to a very high workload and potential burnout if not managed carefully.

Balancing these roles can be challenging and often requires long hours, especially when research deadlines or grant application dates coincide with teaching or administrative responsibilities.

Moreover, the pressure to publish research findings and secure funding can add to the stress.

This diverse workload may also lead to less time for personal research interests, which can be frustrating for those who are deeply passionate about their specific field of study.

Dealing With Ambiguity and Uncertainty in Research Outcomes

Working as an applied scientist often involves dealing with ambiguity and uncertainty in research outcomes.

This is because scientific research is inherently uncertain and unpredictable.

Despite careful planning and rigorous experimentation, the outcome of a research project may not always be as expected.

The nature of scientific research is that it often explores uncharted territory, and there may be many variables and factors that can influence the outcome.

This uncertainty can be stressful and frustrating, especially when a project does not yield the desired results after much time and effort have been invested.

Additionally, these uncertainties can impact project timelines and the ability to meet objectives, leading to potential dissatisfaction or pressure from stakeholders.

Therefore, an applied scientist needs to be comfortable with uncertainty, be patient, and be prepared to adapt their approach based on the results obtained.

Career Progression Dependent on Publications and Citations

In the field of applied science, the ability to advance your career often heavily depends on the number of research publications and citations to your name.

This can create a stressful environment as you constantly strive to produce high-quality, impactful research that will be recognized and cited by your peers.

This pressure can lead to long hours of research and writing, often outside of the traditional 40-hour workweek.

Additionally, the process of publication can be time-consuming and unpredictable, with no guarantee of success.

Furthermore, the dependency on citations means that your work must not only be published, but also recognized and respected by others in your field, adding another layer of uncertainty to your career progression.

Despite these challenges, having your work published and cited can also be a rewarding experience, providing validation for your hard work and contributions to the field of applied science.

Ethical Concerns Regarding Experimentation and Data Management

Applied scientists are often at the forefront of technological advancements and innovations, which sometimes involve conducting experiments or managing data that pose ethical concerns.

The use of certain experimental subjects or methods may raise questions about the morality and ethicality of the research.

For instance, testing on animals or using certain substances can be seen as unethical.

Similarly, the management of sensitive data can also pose significant ethical dilemmas.

Applied scientists may be responsible for handling highly sensitive or personal data, and the potential for misuse or breach of privacy is a constant concern.

Also, the pressure to produce results can sometimes lead to compromised integrity in research and data reporting.

Therefore, applied scientists must always navigate these ethical grey areas, ensuring their work respects all legal and moral boundaries, which can be challenging and stressful.

Navigating Collaborations With Industry and Maintaining Academic Integrity

Applied Scientists often find themselves in the middle of collaborations with different industrial partners.

While these collaborations can provide valuable resources and real-world applications for their work, they can also pose significant challenges.

The interests of the industry partners may not always align with the goals of the scientific research, leading to conflicts.

For instance, industry partners may push for results that support their business, while the scientist is committed to unbiased and accurate reporting.

This can create a complex environment where the Applied Scientist must constantly navigate these interactions while maintaining their academic integrity.

Furthermore, these partnerships can also lead to increased pressure to produce results, which may infringe on the scientist’s ability to conduct thorough and meticulous research.

Difficulty in Finding a Balance Between Depth and Breadth of Expertise

In an applied scientist role, one of the main challenges is finding the right balance between depth and breadth of expertise.

Applied scientists need to have a deep understanding of their specific area of research, but they must also have a broad knowledge base across various scientific disciplines.

This can be especially challenging, as it requires them to continuously stay updated with the latest advancements in their field, while also keeping up with developments in other areas of science.

This wide range of knowledge is necessary because applied science is often interdisciplinary, involving the application of scientific principles from different fields to solve real-world problems.

This constant need to learn and adapt can be demanding and time-consuming, which can lead to stress and burnout.

It may also limit the time available for in-depth exploration of a single topic, which can be a disadvantage for those who prefer to focus on one area of research.

Staying Motivated Despite Slow Progress and Setbacks in Research

Being an Applied Scientist often involves a lot of research, analysis, and data interpretation.

However, research can often be a slow and tedious process, and not all of it will lead to breakthroughs or even useful results.

This can be quite frustrating and demotivating, especially when experiments fail or data doesn’t show what was expected.

Even after months or years of research, there may be setbacks and obstacles that delay or even derail a project.

Keeping motivated during these times can be very challenging.

In addition, the pressure of needing to publish and secure funding can also add to the stress of the role.

Limited Job Security in Academic or Contract-Based Positions

Applied Scientists, especially those working in academia or on contract-based positions, often face a lack of job security.

Unlike permanent positions in other industries, academic roles are frequently dependent on funding, which can fluctuate based on a variety of factors, including economic conditions, changes in policy, and shifts in research priorities.

Contract-based roles, on the other hand, may offer more flexibility, but they also come with an inherent uncertainty, as contracts are time-limited and renewal is not always guaranteed.

This can lead to periods of unemployment between contracts and a constant need to search for the next opportunity.

Additionally, the competitive nature of these roles can contribute to job insecurity, as there are often more applicants than available positions.

This aspect of the job can cause stress and uncertainty for Applied Scientists.

Need to Constantly Justify the Relevance and Impact of Research

Applied Scientists often have to shoulder the burden of explaining and justifying the significance of their research to different stakeholders.

This could range from convincing funding bodies about the potential impact and benefits of their work, to explaining complex scientific concepts to non-scientific audiences in a way that they can understand and appreciate.

This constant need to justify their research can be stressful and time-consuming, detracting from the time they could be spending on the actual research itself.

Furthermore, it can be disheartening when groundbreaking research is not fully understood or appreciated by non-scientific stakeholders, leading to potential issues with securing funding or support.

Long Working Hours Including Evenings and Weekends

Applied Scientists often have demanding schedules that include long hours, stretching far beyond the conventional 40-hour workweek.

Their work often involves running complex experiments or data analyses that can extend into the evenings and over the weekend.

Deadlines for research projects or findings often mean working late nights and even sacrificing weekends.

This irregular schedule can be challenging to balance with personal or family life.

Furthermore, if the research or experiment doesn’t yield the expected results, it can lead to extended hours of troubleshooting and problem-solving.

While the work can be rewarding, the time commitment and irregular hours can prove to be a significant disadvantage.

Difficulty in Achieving Work-Life Balance

Applied Scientists often face challenges in achieving a healthy work-life balance.

This role typically involves long hours in the lab conducting experiments, analyzing data, and writing reports.

Their work often extends beyond the traditional 40-hour work week, with time-sensitive projects and tight deadlines that can require overtime and weekend work.

Additionally, the high-intensity nature of scientific research can lead to stress, making it even more difficult to disconnect from work and focus on personal life.

This might mean less time spent with family and friends, and potentially a strained personal life.

However, for many, the satisfaction gained from contributing to scientific advancements and problem-solving can offset this disadvantage.

Emotional Toll of Repeated Experimentation Failures

Applied Scientists often face the frustrating reality of repeated experiment failures.

The nature of scientific exploration involves a lot of trial and error which means that many experiments may not yield the expected results.

This can lead to feelings of disappointment, stress, and frustration.

The repeated failures can take a significant emotional toll on the scientist as they may begin to question their capabilities and the worthiness of their research.

Moreover, the pressure to publish results, secure funding, and maintain a competitive edge can further exacerbate the emotional strain.

Regardless of their passion for the field, these constant setbacks can lead to burnout and emotional exhaustion over time.

High Accountability and Scrutiny From Peers and Funding Bodies

As an applied scientist, the outcomes of your work often have real-world implications, leading to a high level of accountability.

Your research, findings, and suggestions can impact industries, public policy, or even global strategies.

This means that there is a high level of scrutiny on your work from your peers, as well as from funding bodies who want to see a return on their investment.

You may also face criticism or questioning from the public or from colleagues in your field if they disagree with your findings.

This can create a high-pressure environment that not everyone is comfortable with.

Furthermore, securing funding can sometimes be a lengthy and competitive process, and your work is constantly being evaluated to ensure it meets the strict criteria set by funding bodies.

Risk of Project Termination or Reorientation Due to Shifting Priorities

In the role of an applied scientist, there is a significant risk of project termination or reorientation due to shifting priorities.

Research and development projects in companies are often dictated by business needs and market trends which can change rapidly.

If a project is deemed no longer relevant or profitable, it may be terminated or significantly altered, regardless of how much work has already been put into it.

This can lead to wasted effort and can be demoralizing for the scientist who may have invested a significant amount of time and effort into the project.

Furthermore, this can cause disruption in career progression and may result in the scientist having to learn new skills or knowledge to adapt to the new project direction.

Requirement to Continuously Learn and Adopt New Technologies

In the role of an Applied Scientist, there is a continuous need to learn and adopt new technologies and methodologies to stay relevant in the field.

As the pace of scientific development is rapid, keeping up with the latest advancements can be a daunting task.

This not only requires a significant amount of time spent on learning outside of work hours, but also necessitates a high level of adaptability and willingness to embrace change.

The pressure to constantly update one’s knowledge and skills can be stressful and tiring.

It can also be difficult to maintain a work-life balance due to the time required for continuous learning.

Despite these challenges, this constant learning can make the work of an applied scientist more engaging and rewarding, as they are able to contribute to the cutting edge of scientific research.

Handling Sensitive Data and Maintaining Privacy Standards

Applied scientists often work with sensitive information, including proprietary data, confidential research findings, and sometimes personal data.

This can be a significant burden as they are required to maintain strict privacy standards and ensure data security.

If data is mishandled, it can lead to severe consequences including breach of trust, legal implications, and potential damage to the organization’s reputation.

Even a minor error in data handling can have far-reaching effects, making the role stressful and demanding.

In addition, keeping up with constantly changing regulations and privacy standards can be challenging and time-consuming.

Ensuring Compliance With Ever-Changing Regulations and Guidelines

Applied scientists work in fields that are often subject to strict regulations and guidelines.

These rules can change frequently, forcing scientists to stay up-to-date and adapt their practices accordingly.

This can be a challenging and time-consuming aspect of the job, especially when a significant change requires a complete overhaul of a project or methodology.

Furthermore, non-compliance with these regulations can lead to severe consequences, including fines, legal issues, and damage to reputation.

Hence, applied scientists need to dedicate substantial time and effort to ensure they are always in line with the latest regulations and guidelines.

This constant need for compliance can add stress and pressure to the role.

Pressure to Commercialize Research Findings Prematurely

Applied scientists often face the pressure to commercialize their research findings prematurely.

This is due to the demands of the industry and funding bodies who are keen on seeing the returns on their investments.

In a bid to maintain or increase funding, applied scientists may be forced to rush their research, leading to incomplete or shallow analysis.

This can compromise the quality and integrity of the research.

Furthermore, the pressure to produce commercially viable results may also limit the scope of their research, restricting them to areas that have immediate potential for profit.

This could suppress creativity and innovation, as well as prevent the pursuit of essential research that may not have immediate commercial benefits.

Uncertainties in Job Market for Applied Scientists

The job market for applied scientists can be unpredictable and highly competitive.

Unlike some other professions, the demand for applied scientists can fluctuate greatly depending on advancements in technology, changes in government funding for scientific research, and shifts in societal needs.

While there are opportunities in various industries such as healthcare, technology, and environmental science, these can sometimes be limited and highly sought after.

Additionally, the nature of scientific research often involves temporary or project-based contracts, which can lead to periods of unemployment.

Therefore, applied scientists may face uncertainties and instability in their career path.

Facing Public and Media Misinterpretation of Scientific Findings

Applied Scientists often deal with the challenge of public and media misinterpretation of their scientific findings.

They frequently have to communicate complex scientific data, results, or theories to a non-scientific audience.

This can lead to misunderstanding or misinterpretation of the data by the public or media, leading to misinformation or oversimplification of the science involved.

This not only creates confusion but can also diminish the credibility of the work conducted by the scientist.

Furthermore, the scientist may need to invest additional time in clarifying misunderstandings, taking away from their core research activities.

Managing Large Datasets and Complex Computational Tasks

Applied scientists often have to deal with large volumes of data, which can be overwhelming and challenging.

They are responsible for managing, analyzing, and interpreting these large datasets, which requires significant computational resources and a deep understanding of data science.

This can often lead to a heavy workload and long hours spent in front of a computer.

Additionally, the complexity of the computational tasks involved can cause stress and frustration, especially when the analysis doesn’t yield the expected results.

Moreover, the constant need to keep up with the latest computational techniques and software can also pose a challenge.

It is not uncommon for applied scientists to feel overwhelmed by the constant evolution of data science tools and techniques.

Striving for Originality in an Environment of Incremental Innovation

Applied scientists often face the challenge of trying to innovate and bring about groundbreaking discoveries in an environment that typically favors incremental advancements.

This is largely due to the fact that science and technology sectors often focus on slow and steady progress, as it is considered to be more predictable and less risky.

For applied scientists, this can mean that their most creative and original ideas may not always be welcomed or may be overshadowed by more conservative approaches.

This can be discouraging for those who are passionate about pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge and could potentially stifle their creativity and drive for innovation.

Additionally, the pressure of continually producing new research can also lead to high levels of stress and exhaustion.

Adjusting to Rapid Changes in Field-Specific Theories and Practices

The field of applied science is constantly evolving, with new discoveries and technologies emerging regularly.

This means that applied scientists must be prepared to continuously update their knowledge and adapt their practices.

This can be challenging, as it requires ongoing learning and the ability to quickly adjust to new ways of thinking.

Not only does this mean that applied scientists must devote time and energy to staying current, but they must also be willing to discard or modify theories and techniques that they have previously relied upon.

The constant change can be exciting, but it can also be stressful and demanding.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

An unvarnished look at the disadvantages of being an applied scientist.

It’s not just about conducting experiments and publishing research papers.

It’s about perseverance. It’s about commitment. It’s about maneuvering through a labyrinth of scientific complexities and ethical considerations.

But it’s also about the joy of discovery.

The satisfaction of contributing to the body of knowledge that drives societal advancement.

The thrill of knowing your work could change the world.

Yes, the journey is challenging. But the rewards? They can be incredibly fulfilling.

If you’re nodding along, thinking, “Yes, this is the challenge I’ve been longing for,” we’ve got something else for you.

Take a look at our insider guide on the reasons to become an applied scientist.