Registered Scientist (RSci)

Affinity Water scientist in the lab standing over a bench full of vials and vessels with plastic tubing
Registered Scientists can be found in a huge variety of scientific and higher technical roles. They apply their skills and knowledge whilst working autonomously and have the ability to resolve problems and identify, review and select appropriate techniques, procedures and methods.

Once registered, you must maintain your status through meeting continuing professional development (CPD) requirements each year. As you progress in your career and gain more responsibility and experience, you may want to apply for Chartered Scientist.

Meet some of our other Registered Scientists

How do I become a Registered Scientist?

Applicants need to demonstrate their competence across five areas by providing examples from your working life, usually within the last five years, that illustrates how you have met each standard. This is then assessed either online or in a face to face interview.

An applicant for Registered Scientist will need to explain how they meet the competences below. Guidance is available, click here to find support and useful information for your application, or contact us here.

Application of knowledge and understanding

Apply extended knowledge of underlying concepts and principles associated with area of work.
Review, evaluate and apply underlying scientific concepts, principles and techniques in context of new and different areas of work.
Analyse and interpret and evaluate data, concepts and ideas to propose solutions to problems.

Personal responsibility

Work autonomously while knowing when to escalate appropriately and recognising limits of scope of practice.
Take responsibility for safe and sustainable working practices and contribute to their evaluation and improvement.
Take responsibility for the quality of your work and also enable others to work to high standards.

Interpersonal skills

Demonstrate effective and appropriate communication skills.
Demonstrate effective interpersonal and behavioural skills.
Demonstrate productive working relationships and an ability to resolve problems.

Professional Practice

Identify, review and select scientific techniques procedures and methods to undertake tasks.
Contribute to the organisation of tasks and resources.
Participate in the design, development and implementation of solutions.
Contribute to continuous process of improvement.

Professional standards

Comply with and promote relevant codes of conduct and practice.
Maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice through professional development activity.

“Having the recognition as a Registered Scientist has raised my profile as a professional by acknowledging my commitment to excellence and continuing professional development.”

Paul Lee, RSci

Find out more from this case study from Registered Scientist, Bonnie Wilson