Media release, 22 November 2021
Scientists for Global Responsibility (SGR) today launches its new online resource – ‘Globally Responsible Careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics’ (GRC-STEM) – to help the growing number of job-seekers looking for employment with organisations that prioritise sustainable and ethical concerns.
Several studies have shown that good careers guidance widens horizons, challenges stereotypes and raises aspirations for job-seekers. It provides the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed career choices.
SGR’s new resource builds on advice and guidance about ethical careers in general and focuses on the science and technology sectors. This means, for example, using a career in engineering to help the transition to an environmentally sustainable and socially just world.
As a Globally Responsible Career in STEM could mean different things to different people, the online resource asks each individual a series of questions concerning:
- their personal requirements from a career, bearing in mind their interests in science and technology;
- the type of work they are interested in; and
- their ethical concerns, bearing in mind the global issues that face society.
The 17 Sustainable Development Goals are used as the key ‘Issues’ of global responsibility, and personal reflection on these identifies how important each are to the individual. These are then linked to a range of careers paths within GRC-STEM.
From this assessment the job-seeker can compile a set of personal ‘Career Principles’. These encompass what is important to the individual when contemplating a Globally Responsible Career in STEM, for example: What job options will I consider? What is my responsibility? What would I / would I not compromise on?
GRC-STEM also provides case studies of inspirational careers to demonstrate some of the options available that can lead to success.
All these resources are available on the SGR website and are free to access for individuals reflecting on their career choices, educators at all levels, and professional careers advisors. They can be used online – and can also be downloaded as pdfs – for use in one-to-one careers sessions, assemblies or careers events.
Notes
- The GRC-STEM resources are available on the SGR website at:
https://sgr.org.uk/globally-responsible-careers - The GRC-STEM resources have been developed by Dr Jan Maskell, a registered occupational psychologist with a PhD in educational research. For more details on Dr Maskell’s background, see: https://www.sgr.org.uk/pages/staff-and-ncc
- Scientists for Global Responsibility (SGR) is a UK membership organisation promoting responsible science and technology. Its 700 members include natural scientists, social scientists, engineers and others with expertise in a range of ethical issues related to STEM, including climate change, nuclear weapons, and poverty alleviation. For more information, see: https://www.sgr.org.uk/
