By Gayathri Narayanan
Are you curious about exploring unique and exciting career paths within STEM? This blog will take a closer look at four unusual STEM careers. From cryptozoologist to forensic artist, each career offers its own fascinating and rewarding aspects.
1. Cryptozoologist
What are cryptozoologists? Cryptozoologists research “cryptids,” or creatures whose existence has not been proven by science. They examine legends, firsthand reports, and anecdotal evidence to find new species or confirm the existence of fabled monsters such as Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster. By applying scientific techniques like DNA analysis, field investigation, and habitat monitoring, cryptozoologists try to collect proof that cryptids exist.
What is the average annual salary? The pay for cryptozoologists varies greatly depending on several criteria, including work environment, education level, and experience. Individuals in academic or research roles often make between $40,000 and $80,000 annually. The income of independent researchers and writers may vary significantly based on their publications’ popularity and their projects’ funding.
What aspects of STEM are connected to this career? Cryptozoology intersects with various STEM disciplines, including biology, zoology, ecology, and anthropology. Cryptozoologists use scientific approaches to investigate claims; they assess alleged evidence using concepts from taxonomy, evolutionary biology, and ecological niche modeling. Furthermore, technological developments like DNA analysis and remote sensing support the topic by offering instruments for confirming or refuting reports of cryptid sightings.
Why is this career important? Though the scientific community frequently views cryptozoology with skepticism since many cryptids lack empirical support, the study of cryptozoology encourages curiosity and natural world research. Mainstream scientists and environmentalists often work with cryptozoologists to investigate isolated environments and record biodiversity. Although it is uncommon to uncover new species, cryptozoological study aids conservation efforts by bringing attention to vulnerable environments.
2. Toy Designers
What are toy designers? Toy designers are responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and developing toys and games for children of various ages. They evaluate aspects like safety, durability, and instructional value by generating original concepts, sketching designs, and building prototypes. To bring their ideas to reality, toy designers work with engineers, marketers, and manufacturers, applying design, ergonomics, and child development principles.
What is the average annual salary? The pay scale for toy designers varies based on expertise level, region, and company. While experienced professionals working for well-known toy firms or running their design studios might earn up to $100,000 annually, entry-level designers may only make between $40,000 and $60,000.
What aspects of STEM are connected to this career? Toy designing is closely connected to various aspects of STEM, including material science, mechanical engineering, and product design. Toy designers use STEM principles to create toys that are safe, enduring, and supportive of kids’ learning and growth in addition to being enjoyable. They might include electronics and coding components in interactive toys, encouraging play-based STEM learning.
Why is this career important? Toy designers significantly influence how children perceive childhood and develop their imagination and creativity. To make toys that appeal to modern families and children, they need to keep up with new developments in technology, entertainment, and child development. The dynamic and collaborative world of toy design demands a harmonious blend of technical mastery, artistic ingenuity, and commercial knowledge.
3. Volcanologist
What are volcanologists? To increase scientific knowledge, reduce volcanic hazards, and better understand volcanic processes, volcanologists research volcanoes, volcanic activity, and related phenomena. In the field, they gather information about volcanic eruptions; in the lab, they examine volcanic rocks and fumes; and they remotely sense and track volcanic activity with devices placed on the ground. Volcanologists can also work in emergency response planning, risk assessment, and public education.
What is the average annual salary? Experience, education, and place of work are some of the variables that affect a volcanologist’s pay. While experienced volcanologists working in academia, government organizations, or research institutions might make over $100,000 annually, entry-level roles may pay between $50,000 and $70,000 annually.
What aspects of STEM are connected to this career? Numerous STEM fields, such as geology, earth sciences, physics, chemistry, and remote sensing, are related to volcanology. Volcanologists use concepts from geophysics, geochemistry, and geospatial analysis to investigate volcanic processes, forecast eruptions, and evaluate volcanic hazards. They also use technologies like gas analyzers, seismometers, and satellite images to monitor volcanic activity.
Why is this career important? Volcanologists are essential to comprehending and reducing the effects of volcanic eruptions on the environment and human populations. Their work helps to build early warning systems, enhance monitoring systems for volcanic activity, and provide guidance for land-use planning in volcanic areas. To solve the complex issues related to volcanic risks, volcanologists may also work in interdisciplinary teams, including engineers, social scientists, and emergency responders.
4. Space Archaeologists
What are space archaeologists? Space archaeologists use satellite photography, remote sensing technologies, and geographic information systems (GIS) to find and investigate ancient sites from space. They examine minute changes in the topography, flora, and land use patterns to find hidden buildings or old villages. To evaluate research results and organize on-the-ground excavations, space archaeologists work in tandem with archaeologists and cultural heritage specialists.
What is the average annual salary? Experience, education, and employer are among the variables that affect a space archaeologist’s pay. While experienced professionals working in government organizations, academic institutions, or research facilities can make over $100,000 a year, entry-level roles may pay between $50,000 and $70,000.
What aspects of STEM are connected to this career? Space archaeology interacts with geology, geography, remote sensing, and archaeology, among other STEM fields. Space archaeologists study satellite pictures using physics, optics, and image-processing concepts to locate archaeological features. They also map and visualize spatial data using geographic information systems (GIS) software.
Why is this career important? Space archaeologists help us understand past civilizations, find hidden archaeological features, and monitor the preservation of cultural heritage sites. Their work informs conservation initiatives and heritage management plans while shedding light on human history and cultural change.
Conclusion
In conclusion, STEM careers don’t have to be limited to traditional options. Exploring unique and unusual paths like the above can lead to exciting and fulfilling careers. With the increasing importance of STEM fields worldwide, it’s worth considering these lesser-known opportunities.
Do you want more resources on the topic of STEM careers? NSTEM’s vast resources database provides thousands of searchable STEM resources by category, school level, and state. This comprehensive library includes info on enrichment activities, curricula, internships, scholarships, and more. Check out a free sampling here. Or get an NSTEM membership today to unlock the complete list.
Project-based learning enrichment provides high school students with college and career readiness. It gives them real-world relevance, transforming students into collaborators and imaginative problem solvers. They will gain the upper hand in a global landscape, stemming from enhanced confidence and grit. NSTEM provides these young STEM enthusiasts with a close community of like-minded fellow students and educators. To start your 9-12 Chapter of the National STEM Honor Society, click here.
