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Science Jobs Jump

Big increases in scientist vacancies indicate that science is a key factor in the current growth of the New Zealand economy. A survey by Auckland University's Dr John Seakins and Dean of Science Prof. Ralph Cooney reveals that science job vacancies advertised in the New Zealand Herald have doubled since 1993.

The survey counted 1464 science vacancies in a two-month survey period. This represents over 8000 vacancies annually, compared with just 5000 science graduates completing their studies in 1994. Other points emerging included:

• The science discipline in greatest demand was computer science, followed by chemistry, electronics, psychology, biological sciences and food and dairy technology.
• First degree science graduates and graduates with Bachelor of Technology degrees were in high demand, followed by Master of Science graduates.
• The growth in science jobs was mainly in the private sector followed by health, government ministries, private medical laboratories, schools and local body councils.
• The industry showing the greatest demand for graduates was computing, followed by manufacturing, health, food, environmental and education.

The researchers say that the results mean that teachers and vocational guidance officers can feel confident in recommending science career options to students.

The survey is part of a systematic evaluation of science education and employment opportunities in New Zealand. Earlier reports addressed issues of academic science planning, including international research priorities and science workforce projections, and considered changes to the local science scene in relationship to the wider international context.

The full reports have been published in the New Zealand Science Review and copies are also available from the Faculty of Science Office, University of Auckland (Fax 09-373-7431; email j.seakins@auckland.ac.nz).