Natural and Physical Science Professionals (ANZSCO 234) are skilled individuals who perform a wide range of analytical, conceptual, and practical tasks in various scientific fields. These professionals are involved in studying environmental factors, agricultural production, the chemical and physical properties of the universe, mineral extraction and processing, as well as the physiology and biochemistry of humans, plants, and animals. They also play a crucial role in disease prevention.

Indicative Skill Level:

In Australia and New Zealand, most occupations within the Natural and Physical Science Professionals category require a bachelor's degree or higher qualification. In some cases, relevant experience and on-the-job training may be necessary in addition to the formal qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 1).

Tasks Include:

• Advising farmers on techniques to improve crop and livestock production.
• Conducting experiments and tests to identify the chemical composition and reactive properties of natural substances and processed materials.
• Developing conservation and management policies for biological resources, such as fish populations and forests. They also establish standards and approaches for pollution control and the rehabilitation of areas affected by activities like mining and timber felling.
• Conducting studies of minerals, the nature of the Earth's crust, and carrying out mineral exploration.
• Studying the forms and structures of organs and tissues through systematic observation, dissection, and microscopic examination.
• Investigating the effects of environmental factors, such as rainfall, temperature, sunlight, soil, topography, and disease, on plant and animal growth.
• Analyzing samples of body tissue and fluids to develop diagnostic and treatment techniques for diseases.
• Treating animals medically and surgically, as well as administering and prescribing drugs, analgesics, and anesthetics for animals.
• Conducting experiments to discover and develop practical applications of physics in industries, medicine, and other fields.
• Studying and applying chemical and metallurgical techniques for extracting and refining metallic materials from ores and concentrates.

Subcategories

Within the Natural and Physical Science Professionals category, there are various subcategories that specialize in specific fields:

• 2341 Agricultural, Fisheries and Forestry Scientists
• 2342 Chemists, and Food and Wine Scientists
• 2343 Environmental Scientists
• 2344 Geologists, Geophysicists and Hydrogeologists
• 2345 Life Scientists
• 2346 Medical Scientists
• 2347 Veterinarians
• 2349 Other Natural and Physical Science Professionals

These subcategories allow professionals to specialize in specific areas of natural and physical sciences, catering to the diverse needs of industries and research fields.