Creating Career Path...

Finding Further Careers...

Science & Research

Renewable Energy Scientist

View this career for different education levels:

Primary Secondary Post-16

A Renewable Energy Scientist studies how energy can be captured from nature such as the sun, wind and water, and finds better ways to turn that energy into electricity. They run experiments, collect data, and use computer models to test ideas. They work in laboratories and field sites, helping to design new technologies like better solar panels, wind turbines, or new methods for storing energy. Their goal is to make energy cheaper, cleaner and more reliable for homes and industries in the United Kingdom.

Renewable Energy Scientist

Flag Media

Please select a reason for flagging this content.

📊 Statistics

Average salary in the UK

Typical salaries range from around 30,000 to 50,000 pounds per year for early career roles, with more experienced scientists earning between 50,000 and 75,000 pounds or higher in senior positions.

Number of jobs

There are several thousand roles across the UK in universities, research institutes, and industry, with steady demand as renewable projects grow.

Education and training

Most renewable energy scientists hold a bachelor degree in a STEM subject, often followed by a Masters or PhD in areas like renewable energy, physics or chemistry.

🚀 Careers in this path

Flag Media

Please select a reason for flagging this content.

Solar panel tester

A person who checks that solar panels work well by measuring the electricity they make and making sure they are safe to use

Flag Media

Please select a reason for flagging this content.

Wind turbine helper

Someone who helps look after wind turbines, learns how they spin and keeps them in good condition so they can create clean energy

Flag Media

Please select a reason for flagging this content.

Energy science teacher

A friendly teacher who explains how energy from sun and wind helps power homes and how scientists study it

Stage 1 - Foundations

Explore science subjects

Start with strong knowledge in science and maths.

Attend science fairs, join a science club, and do simple home experiments with explained results. Build familiarity with basic chemistry, physics and data analysis.

Learn about energy

Discover how energy is created and used.

Watch kid friendly videos about solar panels, wind turbines and how batteries store energy. Keep a simple energy diary to compare sunny and windy days.

Plan for maths and study habits

Develop strong study routines for exams.

Practice problem solving, keep a maths practice log, and learn how to read charts and graphs.

Stage 2 - Secondary Education Focus

Take science and maths subjects

Choose GCSEs or equivalents in science, maths and technology.

Aim for good grades to keep doors open to science courses. Ask teachers for extra challenges and seek science mentorship.

Join science clubs and fairs

Participate in projects about renewable energy.

Work on a small solar powered device or a wind turbine model. Present your project to friends or at a school science fair.

Plan a related work experience

Try a short placement or apprenticeship in science or engineering.

Ask family, teachers or local universities about visits or summer work experiences in energy or environment.

Stage 3 - Higher Education and Skills

Choose a science degree

Look for degrees in physics, engineering, environmental science or renewable energy.

Seek courses that include lab work, energy systems and project work. Consider universities with strong sustainability programmes.

Seek hands on projects

Do practical projects as part of study.

Join research groups, internships or summer projects focused on energy technology. Build a portfolio of your experiments and results.

Develop practical skills

Learn software and tools used in energy research.

Get familiar with data analysis, modelling and simulation software. Practice presenting findings clearly.

Stage 4 - Early Career and Specialisation

Apply for graduate roles

Look for research, development or lab assistant roles in energy firms or universities.

Prepare a strong CV showing lab experience, projects and any publications or presentations. Attend career fairs and network with mentors.

Specialise your field

Choose a focus such as solar, wind, energy storage or climate modelling.

Take extra courses or certifications in your chosen area and seek a mentor in that field.

Get hands on with real projects

Work on real energy projects to gain practical experience.

Join research projects, collaborate with engineers and contribute to reports and presentations for stakeholders.

Stage 5 - Professional Growth

Publish and share findings

Contribute to reports, papers or conferences.

Communicate complex ideas simply and clearly. Build a professional network in energy science.

Lead projects and teams

Take on project leadership roles.

Develop teamwork, budgeting and planning skills. Mentor new scientists.

Continue learning

Keep up to date with new energy technologies.

Attend workshops, online courses and read industry updates to stay curious and adaptable.

🎬 Useful Videos

Jason Kouvdos
3:25
Sponsored

Jason Kouvdos

about 1 year ago
Matt Smith
2:17
Sponsored

Matt Smith

about 1 year ago
Graeme Sutcliffe
3:16
Sponsored

Graeme Sutcliffe

about 1 year ago

🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Renewable Energy Scientist. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

🎓 View Apprenticeships

Career Progressions

This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.

Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.

Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.

These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!

Sample Qualifications

Both roles require rigorous scientific training in physics or environmental science, plus quantitative analysis and modelling of energy or climate systems. They share a focus on evaluating technologies, interpreting data, and informing policy or engineering decisions to mitigate climate impact.

How to become

You can get into this job through a university course.

University

You could do a degree or postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject like:

  • environmental science or ecology
  • geography, earth sciences or geology
  • physics
  • maths and statistics
  • oceanography or marine science
  • meteorology and climate science
  • computer science

Work experience

You can get work experience through internships, placements or a year in industry during your course. This may help you to identify your area of interest for research.

For example, the Met Office runs both summer placement and year in industry schemes.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

More Information

Career tips

You can find information about global climate conditions through:

Further information

Discover more about working in climate science from:

Interested in More Career Paths?

Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.

Browse All Careers Generate New Career Path

Stay connected

Join our newsletter to stay up to date on features and releases

Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK

Phone
01603 273515

Email
[email protected]

Developing Experts

LessonsAboutResearchReportingPlans & Pricing

Legal

GDPRPrivacy PolicyTerms and ConditionsCookie Policy

Contact Us

Get in touchRequest SubscriptionChildren's CodeAbout UsCareers

Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.