Stem cell researchers experiment with embryonic or adult stem cells to find medical uses, record and interpret data, share results, and stay up-to-date with relevant research. They focus on specific medical fields and work in laboratories, often requiring advanced degrees.
A stem cell researcher performs experiments on different types of stem cells in order to find possible medical uses for them. The types of cells used in this research are usually either embryonic stem cells or adult stem cells. Most stem cell researchers work in laboratories conducting experiments, writing technical reports, and directing clinical trials related to the different functions of stem cells.
Specifically, a stem cell researcher plans experiments and performs them. Whatever the results of the experiment, the scientist records the data and interprets them to demonstrate the significance – such as success or failure – of the experiment. Accurate records must be kept so that the collected data can be analyzed effectively and the results can be used in further experiments. This usually involves the use of specialized software specific to the area of experimentation.
Accurate records are also imperative for stem cell research, as they allow the researcher to easily distribute the results, especially to others in the field. This is important, as another central aspect of a stem cell researcher’s job is sharing results with colleagues through conference presentations and journal articles. Reports are also written and submitted to the agencies funding the research so that the funding bodies can track how the research money is being used.
While part of a researcher’s job is to present the results of their experiments, it is also important that they are aware of other relevant research taking place in the field. To do this, the stem cell scientist can read scientific literature written by other researchers or attend relevant conferences and meetings.
A stem cell researcher usually focuses on a specific medical field. For example, a researcher might work in oncology and use stem cells to try to find treatments for cancer. An individual in this position may also work in hematology, using stem cells to find solutions or treatments for blood disorders. Neural research is also a potential area of expertise for stem cell researchers; in that field, they can conduct experiments to find ways to treat brain disorders or problems. Still other researchers focus on the basic molecular structure of stem cells, which may involve generating the cells themselves and performing experiments on the cell lineage.
Stem cell scientists usually work in laboratories at hospitals, research institutions, or higher education institutions. At the college or university level, a part of the researcher’s job is to teach students and supervise their work. This can often also involve grading and grading student work.
Almost all stem cell researchers are required, at a minimum, to have a bachelor’s degree. Most positions, however, also require an advanced degree. Depending on the field of interest, this degree could be in molecular biology, cell biology, or biomedical science, to name a few. Sometimes a doctorate is necessary, especially for stem cell researchers working in higher education, because part of their job is to teach students.
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