What Does an Applied Scientist Do? 2026 Career Guide

Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on

Applied science is an exciting field with growing demand. Explore details of what an applied scientist career is like, including the required skills and background, the average applied scientist salary, and how to work in different applied scientist jobs.

[Featured image] An applied scientist works on a computer in a lab.

Key takeaways

Applied scientists use research skills and in-depth scientific knowledge in one or more particular fields to solve real-world problems.

  • Applied science differs from other types of science, which are often more theoretical, in that it aims to develop practical solutions and functional applications that improve daily life. 

  • As an applied scientist, you can work across disciplines, in a range of fields, to improve existing solutions and processes and help businesses meet their objectives.

  • You can become an applied scientist by earning a degree, gaining relevant experience, and building a robust network.

Explore the role of an applied scientist. Learn more about what an applied scientist does, the salary you can expect to accompany a role in this field, and how you can become an applied scientist. Enroll in the Applied Data Science Specialization where, in as little as two months, you’ll have the opportunity to gain skills in areas including data presentation, data science, data analysis, and predictive modeling.

What is an applied scientist?

Applied scientists have in-depth knowledge of one or more scientific fields, use methods and research skills to solve real-world problems, and help businesses meet their objectives. They typically devote their time to developing new technologies, devices, and processes that help improve the landscape of their industry and the quality of life. Unlike other types of science, which involve posing theoretical questions, applied science finds practical solutions and functional applications for its results. 

Applied science is an overarching term for scientists who work with various scientific methodologies to create new inventions or processes that improve daily lives. Applied scientists tend to work in private sector industries, such as health care, banking, engineering, or technology, to devise innovative solutions that advance their field or focus of study.

Applied scientist vs. data scientist: What is the difference?

An applied scientist uses the scientific method to develop research questions and conduct studies, with the goal of applying the study results to solve real-world problems. In contrast, data scientists answer research questions by processing and extracting information from data sets. 

Applied scientist jobs: What does an applied scientist do?

Applied scientists use scientific research and studies to innovate solutions to real-world scenarios and challenges. They often work in teams with professionals across various disciplines, covering a range of fields. Applied scientist roles are great options for people who want to contribute to improving business processes and making a difference in other people’s lives. They can work on specialized or elite projects and create new technologies that improve the landscape of science. In this article, we’ve highlighted three different types of applied scientist roles to show the breadth and range of this field.

Applied scientist job description

Applied scientist duties are as varied as the jobs themselves, and your tasks will differ depending on the type of applied scientist job you have. You may travel, in some instances, to further your research or create models and work with algorithms to improve existing solutions and processes. To illustrate the range of duties you may encounter, we’ve gathered examples of typical duties for an applied scientist working in aerospace, biomedical, and statistics:

1. Aerospace engineering

  • Draft and test designs for spacecraft, aircraft, and missiles.

  • Perform tests and procedures to find any faults in designs.

  • Research and report on new technologies. 

  • Create reports, manuals, and process documents.

2. Biomedical engineering

  • Design equipment to help diagnose and treat medical conditions.

  • Design and build artificial limbs and organs.

  • Install, maintain, and repair various medical equipment.

  • Act as a medical science liaison to other professionals.

3. Statistician

  • Create polls, questionnaires, and surveys.

  • Analyze data to help make decisions.

  • Use statistics to solve real-world problems.

  • Use mathematics to interpret data and draw conclusions.

Applied scientist skills

To be successful, you’ll need a robust skill set that includes technical and workplace skills. Technical skills represent the practical aspects of your role, while workplace skills contribute to how productive you are in a work environment.

Although the specific skills required for an applied scientist position depend on the type of role, some general skills include:

Technical skills

  • Ability to create and implement algorithms and models 

  • Proficiency in data analysis and visualization

  • Experience with design software and different operating systems

  • Experience with computational software, such as MATLAB

  • Familiarity with engineering processes

  • Knowledge of mathematics and analytical skills

  • Experience working with sensitive information

Workplace skills

Applied science and AI

Applied science uses artificial intelligence, or AI, to support different machine learning processes to create real-world solutions and practical applications. It helps process data across multiple types of applied science and helps scientists innovate in cutting-edge and novel ways, such as mapping poverty levels or developing technologies never seen before. AI helps make sense of large data sets and creates accelerated research processes.

Applied scientist salary and job outlook

As an applied scientist, you can anticipate earning a robust salary. However, the average salary differs based on the industry that you work in. Consider the following median salaries for applied scientists working in aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, and statistics in the US:

  • Aerospace engineers make a median annual salary of $134,830. The job growth for this role is about 6 percent, which is above average [1].

  • Biomedical engineers make a median annual salary of $106,950. The job growth for this role is about 5 percent, which is faster than average [2].

  • Statisticians make a median annual salary of $104,350. The job growth for this role is about 8 percent, which is higher than the average across all professions [3].

Do you need a PhD to be an applied scientist?

The path to becoming an applied scientist begins with a bachelor’s degree. Advancing your career to more senior positions may necessitate getting a master’s or a PhD. However, gaining experience in the field and building your network with mentors and professionals working in applied science can help ease your path forward, too.

How to become an applied scientist

Due to the varied nature of applied science, you can find roles in nearly any field you're interested in, which also provides a career path with many options. You’ll generally want a strong mathematics, engineering, or computer background. Then, you’ll need to examine the specifics of the role you want to pursue.

Education and training

Some examples of the specific education and training you’ll need for different applied scientist careers include:

1. Aerospace engineer

To become an aerospace engineer, you’ll typically need a bachelor’s degree in physics, mechanical engineering, or astronomy. Some candidates get advanced degrees in aerospace engineering to make themselves more competitive. Experience with different aircraft and spacecraft is helpful, and you might need security clearance based on your company’s security protocols.

2. Biomedical engineer

To enter this field, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering or a similar engineering subject. Experience in medical or lab settings is also helpful. It’s essential to choose a biomedical specialization that appeals to your interests and talents. Take time to consider your motivations and what you’d like to work on, such as artificial limbs, to help people.

3. Statistician

Becoming a statistician typically requires a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or statistics, at a minimum. You’ll also want to have experience compiling sensitive data into reports. Many employers look for statisticians who also have advanced degrees. Statisticians often work within industries such as finance or business.

Read more: What Is a Biostatistician? 

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Article sources

1. 

US Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Aerospace Engineers: Occupational Outlook Handbook, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/aerospace-engineers.htm.” Accessed February 3, 2026.

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