Grace asks:
Hello, I am currently undertaking a P/T BSc.(Hons) Life Sciences with the Open University, and am doing well at Level 2. I have a BSc. Psych (2001)from Stirling University. I am 30 yrs old and live in Glasgow City Centre. I have no related work experience, but would love to pursue a career as a researcher. I am particularly interested in Biological Psychology. I’d like some advice on related careers, and where I should begin to gain experience. I am happy to volunteer, ideally in a university, yet I am unsure who to approach, and in what capacity I would realistically be considered.
Hi Grace,
I am not an expert in Biological Psychology but I would suggest you decide whether you want to focus on human or animal psychology.
If human then you could seek practical experience in working with people who exhibit unusual behaviours. For example you could focus on neonatals, pre-school children, adults with specific disorders, the elderly etc.
I assume you are aware of groups such as those in Leeds (http://www.psyc.leeds.ac.uk/research/biol/). Take a look at the sort of research they are doing and see if anything springs to mind which you can do.
Does your OU work allow for a research element? If so could you link it with your interest?
Have you talked about your interest to your OU tutor and asked for advice?
Are there any Biological Psychology research groups near to you which you could visit to see what they are doing?
You might be able to volunteer to work for a University, or for a member of staff, working from home, perhaps on a specific desk-based project.
Be creative and flexible.
Hope this helps.
Phil