Profile
Fiona Travers
CV
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The qualifications required for this job are:
It is useful to have a degree (or similar qualification) in a scientific subject if you want to work somewhere like the Royal Observatory Edinburgh- but not always. I have a Zoology degree, but didn’t end up working with animals!
You need to have lots of experience working with people and really good communication skills.
My first jobs were working in shops and then in visitor attractions like science centres and museums.
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How I got into this job:
Since my degree, I knew I wanted to do a job that meant talking to people about science but I didn’t know that Science Communication or Public Engagement existed! It has been a challenge sometimes to progress as there is lots of competition for jobs, but if you keep speaking to people and keep your eyes open then the opportunities will appear!
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Why did I choose this job:
I have been very lucky to work in some really amazing places, and the observatory is definitely a unique place to work. I saw the job when I was coming to the end of my time working somewhere else, and it looked like such a great opportunity. I went for it, and have been here since (5 years and counting!)
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Experiences this job has given me that I might not have got elsewhere:
The job has given me lots of chances to be creative and try out new things. We learn best when we can make mistakes! I didn’t think I would be doing so many events and activities online, so it has been great to learn more digital skills since the pandemic (one good thing at least!) I like that I get to travel sometimes to the other scientific labs in England, and also go out to visit groups in Edinburgh and get to know the city better.
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My Interview
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