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What career would be best for someone who is great at bio and chem, but has limited mobility?

What career would be best for someone who is great at bio and chem, but has limited mobility? I am very interested in most sciences and especially good with biology and chemistry. Health science has always interested me and I have an unfortunate amount of experience in hospitals. I have a chronic pain disorder which makes standing for a long time painful. I can manage for a while, but I don’t want a career that would require it for the rest of my life. My plan was originally nursing, but that is no longer a possibility.

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Angel’s Answer

A career in health sciences like medical research, clinical lab technology, bioinformatics, or pharmaceutical sciences could be ideal. These roles focus on biology and chemistry, involve minimal physical strain, and can often be done seated. Roles like genetic counseling, healthcare writing, or academic research also allow you to contribute meaningfully while accommodating your needs.
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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Lillian !

I am very happy to know of your career interest and would like to provide some advice to you ! Welcome aboard Career Village !

I have personally known a lot of people that have a mental or a physical disability that have had satisfying careers in the field of medical and science. It is possible. You are also protected under the Americans With Disabilities Act (link to their website is below). This would be for college as well as for employment. Many colleges also have an office for students with disabilities on their campus.

Here is how you find out what possible career would suit you: This can only be discovered by you. You will have to experience various niches of the science field by doing volunteer work. Think about exactly what you'd like to do (you can do anything you put your mind to) an even if you have to volunteer in a science setting doing data entry or reception work, you will get a feel for your abilities and/or what you'd need support with. It's not worth just thinking about, start self-discovering and you will get an idea of what may be a good field to pursue !

I highly advise that you connect with Roads to Freedom - Center for Independent Living (link to their website is below). This is an important agency to tap into. They offer Peer Mentoring, and Youth Services. They serve people with all disabilities, so you would qualify for their services. They are in Williamsport and if that is not close enough to where you live, they provide information and referrals to a service that can assist you.

You may want to consider science research. There may be a variety of careers to choose from, but only you can test it and decide for yourself. Have you spoken to your school's social worker or if you're in college, the office for students with a disability ? These would be valuable ways to obtain support for possible careers. You have learned a lot already through your life experience, but it pays to look into all resources. Break the barriers and be self-directed by gaining valuable supports and knowing that you can do anything you put your mind to. Your contribution is greatly needed in your community.

The office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (link is below) can help you sort out what niches in the science field or work you may want to try. They are a valuable program that serves people in the Commonwealth of PA.

I hope this helps you get off to a good start and I wish you all the best ! Do return here if you have more questions along the way ! Do not hesitate to utilize anything that will enable you to fulfill your goals !

Michelle recommends the following next steps:

ROADS TO FREEDOM - CENTER FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING https://www.cilncp.org/
THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT https://www.ada.gov/
THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES FOR THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVABIA https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dhs.html
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dli/programs-services/disability-and-vocational-rehabilitation/employment.html
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Victoria’s Answer

Clinical Research, Education/Faculty, Pharmaceutical Research,
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Dr’s Answer

Hey Lillian! First off, I just want to say how impressive it is that you’re considering all your strengths and challenges thoughtfully—kudos for that! 🎉 You're clearly a problem-solver who knows how to make things work, and trust me, the world needs more of that! Now, let’s dive into some career options where your love for bio and chem can totally shine without you having to run around all day. (Not that you need to run anyway, you’re already ahead of the game 😉)

Medical Laboratory Technician (or Medical Technologist): Welcome to the behind-the-scenes world of healthcare! 🧪 You’ll be in the lab, analyzing samples and running tests like a total science boss. You get to put your biology and chemistry knowledge to work from the comfort of your chair—no running around, just pure science greatness. Talk about a backstage pass to the medical world! 🎬

Pharmaceutical Researcher or Chemist: Want to be the next big name in medical breakthroughs? 💥 This job is all about experimenting, developing meds, and solving complex chemical puzzles. And guess what? It’s all in the lab, so no need to hustle on your feet. Just you, chemicals, and the occasional “Aha!” moment. Who wouldn’t want to be a science superhero in their lab coat? 🦸‍♀️

Health Informatics Specialist: Here’s where healthcare meets tech, and you get to be the wizard behind it all! 💻 Health informatics is about managing patient data, improving healthcare systems, and making everything run smoothly. So grab your data wand and get ready to work from your desk (or whatever comfy spot you call your office). Bonus: You could even work from home! 🏡 And trust me, no one’s going to miss those endless hospital shifts while you're living the dream in your pajamas. 🙌

Medical Science Liaison: Picture yourself as the go-to expert, the one who bridges the gap between doctors, researchers, and pharma companies. 🧑‍🔬 It's like being the mastermind behind all the cool science stuff. You’ll be doing lots of presentations, research, and meetings—without the need for running around! 💼 And yes, you’ll totally impress everyone with your expertise. 😎

Genetic Counselor: Ready to help people understand their genetic health risks while using your biology brainpower? 🧬 As a genetic counselor, you’ll be guiding people through their medical decisions, having important conversations, and using your skills to change lives—all from the comfort of your office! This role is about connecting, explaining, and supporting people through science... and you get to do it while being the science guru! 🔬

Bioinformatics/Data Analyst: If you love working with biology and chemistry but also have a passion for tech, this is your golden ticket. 🎟️ Bioinformatics is all about analyzing huge data sets and working with complex algorithms—basically making sense of the biological world from your computer screen. It’s the ultimate desk job, and you’ll feel like a wizard every time you decode a new data mystery! 💻✨

Environmental Health Specialist: Here’s a job that combines your love for science with saving the planet. 🌍 As an environmental health specialist, you’ll be working on projects that assess how environmental factors (like pollution) affect human health. It’s all about research, data, and analysis, and you’ll be doing it from a cozy workspace (probably with a cup of coffee in hand). ☕🌿

And don’t forget telemedicine—it’s the way of the future! You could totally be helping patients from your own home, consulting, diagnosing, and educating them on their health without ever leaving your comfy chair. 🛋️ Imagine being a doctor virtually (and looking awesome while doing it, of course). The world is moving in that direction, and hey, you could be part of that revolution. 🌟

So, there you have it! Plenty of careers where you can rock your biology and chemistry knowledge without needing to be on your feet all day. Science is fun, and you, my friend, are going to make it even more fun! Keep that fire burning, stay curious, and most importantly, enjoy the ride. 🔥 You've got this—go show the world what you’re made of! 🚀
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James Constantine’s Answer

Good Day Lillian!

Best Career Options for Someone Skilled in Biology and Chemistry with Limited Mobility

1. Overview of Skills and Interests Given your strong background in biology and chemistry, along with a keen interest in health sciences, there are several career paths that can leverage your skills while accommodating your mobility limitations. It is essential to consider roles that allow for flexibility in work environment and physical demands.

2. Potential Career Paths

Laboratory Technician/Technologist

As a laboratory technician or technologist, you would work primarily in a lab setting, conducting experiments and analyzing samples. This role typically involves working at a bench or desk, which can be adjusted to accommodate limited mobility. You would utilize your knowledge of biology and chemistry to perform tests that aid in medical diagnoses or research.

Medical Laboratory Scientist

Similar to a laboratory technician, medical laboratory scientists perform complex analyses on blood, urine, and other bodily fluids. This role requires a bachelor’s degree in medical technology or a related field but offers the opportunity to work primarily seated while still engaging deeply with biological and chemical processes.

Clinical Research Coordinator

In this position, you would manage clinical trials and research studies. The role often involves coordinating between various stakeholders (researchers, participants, regulatory bodies) rather than physically demanding tasks. Your background in biology and chemistry would be beneficial for understanding the scientific aspects of the studies.

Health Informatics Specialist

This career focuses on managing patient data and health information systems. It combines healthcare with information technology, allowing you to work primarily on computers without significant physical demands. Your understanding of biological concepts can enhance your ability to communicate effectively with healthcare professionals.

Regulatory Affairs Specialist

Regulatory affairs specialists ensure that companies comply with regulations governing pharmaceuticals, biotechnology products, and medical devices. This role typically involves reviewing documentation and communicating with regulatory agencies rather than performing hands-on laboratory work.

Science Writer/Communicator

If you have strong writing skills, consider becoming a science writer or communicator. This role allows you to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible language for various audiences. You can work from home or any location that suits your needs.

3. Considerations for Each Career Path When evaluating these options:

Assess the educational requirements: Some positions may require specific degrees or certifications.
Explore remote work opportunities: Many roles now offer the possibility of remote work which could further accommodate mobility issues.
Look into workplace accommodations: Employers are increasingly aware of the need for inclusive workplaces; inquire about potential adjustments during interviews.

4. Conclusion Based on your interests in biology and chemistry as well as your mobility limitations, careers such as laboratory technician/technologist, clinical research coordinator, health informatics specialist, regulatory affairs specialist, or science writer could be excellent fits. These roles allow you to utilize your scientific knowledge while providing flexibility regarding physical demands.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question

1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

The BLS provides comprehensive data on job outlooks, salary expectations, educational requirements, and job descriptions across various occupations including those related to health sciences.

2. National Institutes of Health (NIH)

NIH offers insights into careers within biomedical research fields including clinical research coordination which aligns well with interests in biology and chemistry.

3. American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS)

ASCLS provides resources specifically tailored for laboratory professionals including career pathways available within clinical laboratories which are suitable for individuals with limited mobility.

Probability the answer is correct: 95%

God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
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