Scientists Information

What does an information scientist do? | |

Information scientists typically work across the breadth of a company. A lot of their time will be spent communicating with colleagues or carrying out research in archives of documents.

Key duties of the job include:

evaluating, organising, classifying, managing and distributing information in a variety of formats
answering Freedom of Information (FOI) requests
carrying out audits, inquiries and internal commissions
answering enquiries
maintaining statistical and financial records

Vacancies are advertised online, by careers services and specialist recruitment agencies, in local/national newspapers, in The Times Higher Education Supplement. Early applications for traineeships and postgraduate courses (particularly where funding is sought) are essential.

An undergraduate degree or postgraduate qualification in information science/management or librarianship accredited by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals is usually required for entry into the profession. Specialist knowledge may also be needed for some vacancies.

At least one year of relevant experience is often necessary prior to postgraduate study. This can be gained by working as a library/information assistant, or via a graduate training scheme.