Working in Science and Research Recruitment involves recruiting talent for roles within scientific and research-focused industries. 

1. Niche Expertise

• Recruiters need to have a strong understanding of the technical skills and qualifications required in fields like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, environmental science, and academia.
• Positions can range from research scientists, lab technicians, and engineers to academic professors and corporate R&D roles.

2. Candidate Sourcing

• Given the specialised nature of the work, finding suitable candidates often requires reaching out to passive candidates (those not actively seeking jobs), scouring academic publications, attending conferences, or engaging in professional networks like LinkedIn or specialised platforms like ResearchGate.
• Many candidates may hold advanced degrees such as PhDs or master’s degrees, so working with academic institutions is common.

3. Client Relationships

• Working closely with organisations like research institutions, universities, or private companies to understand their specific needs, which can be highly specialised.
• The clients may require professionals with niche skills that are difficult to find, and they may have specific expectations regarding the academic and professional backgrounds of candidates.

4. Market Dynamics

• The market is often influenced by funding cycles, government policies, and grants, meaning roles can be highly contingent on external factors like research grants or private investment in R&D.
• Being aware of industry trends, scientific breakthroughs, and where funding is being allocated helps in anticipating demand for certain skill sets.

5. Longer Hiring Cycles

• The hiring process can be longer due to the specificity of the roles, the need for a precise fit, and the necessity of extensive interviewing or testing to verify skills and qualifications.
• Some candidates may be involved in ongoing projects or research that delays their availability, leading to extended timelines for onboarding.

6. Challenging but Rewarding

• It can be challenging to fill positions due to the highly technical and often cutting-edge nature of the roles.
• However, it’s rewarding to place candidates in jobs that contribute to important scientific research and innovation, which can have significant societal impacts.