Chartered Scientist Competences

Given the diverse nature of scientific practice, achieving the required level for these professional competencies will involve a broad range of activities.

Chartered Scientists must be competent throughout their professional lives using a combination of their knowledge, training and experience to be able to:

A. deal with complex scientific issues, both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non specialist audiences;

A1. Use a combination of general knowledge, understanding and skills to optimise and engage in the application of existing and emerging science and technology.

Typically in a scientific context this will include the ability and commitment to:

  • Identify potential projects and opportunities through knowledge of the field of practice and current market needs
  • Conduct appropriate research to enable the design and development of scientific projects/processes
  • Know and manage personal strengths and weaknesses
  • Identify the limits of own personal knowledge and skills
  • Be confident and flexible in dealing with new and changing situations.

A2. Use theoretical and practical methods in the analysis and solution of problems

Typically in a scientific context this will include the ability and commitment to:

  • Carry out experimental work and/or advise on and manage the work of others
  • Collect, analyse and evaluate relevant data and offer possible solutions

A3. Communicate effectively

Typically in a scientific context this will include the ability and commitment to:

  • Present solutions to technical and non-scientific audiences
  • Communicate with colleagues at all levels
  • Exchange information and give advice to scientific and non-scientific audiences
  • Prepare and deliver appropriate presentations
  • Prepare letters, reports and proposals.

B. exercise self-direction and originality in solving problems, and exercise substantial personal autonomy in planning and implementing tasks at a professional level;

B1. Plan and organise projects effectively

Typically in a scientific context this will include the ability and commitment to:

  • Identify potential projects and opportunities through knowledge of the field of practice and current market needs
  • Identify factors affecting project implementation
  • Ensure necessary resources are in place for effective project implementation
  • Gather and evaluate feedback, acting where appropriate.

B2. Work effectively in a team

Typically in a scientific context this will include the ability and commitment to:

  • Organise and lead work teams, coordinating project activities
  • Identify, agree and work towards collective goals
  • Create, maintain and enhance productive working relationships
  • Be aware of the needs and concerns of others.

B3. Use effective influencing and negotiating skills

Typically in a scientific context this will include the ability and commitment to:

  • Conduct appropriate research to influence the design and development of scientific projects and processes
  • Have sound knowledge of project costs and the ability to negotiate appropriate project funding.

C. continue to advance their knowledge, understanding and competence to a high level.

C1. Demonstrate a commitment to CPD

Typically in a scientific context this will include a commitment to:

  • Extend own knowledge, understanding and scientific capability;
  • Broaden own knowledge base
  • Undertake reviews on own development needs
  • Maintain evidence of professional competence development.

C2. Demonstrate an understanding and commitment to Health and Safety and environmental issues related to employment

Typically in a scientific context this will include the ability and commitment to:

  • Operate and act responsibly, taking account of environmental and socio-economic factors.

C3. Comply with the relevant Codes of Conduct

Typically in a scientific context this will include the ability and commitment to:

  • Comply with the rules of professional conduct of own professional body
  • Work constructively within all relevant legislation and regulatory frameworks; including social and employment legislation;
  • Apply professional work ethics.

MC/CSCI COMPS/JAN08

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