Chartered Scientists use their specialist knowledge and broader scientific understanding to develop and improve the application of science and technology by scoping, planning and managing multifaceted projects.
Chartership as a scientist reflects the wide variety of sciences and their practice, recognising high levels of skill and experience, independent of discipline.
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Why should I gain CSci registration?
Professional registration acknowledges real world experiences and shows the level of competence you have as a practising scientist. It also demonstrates your commitment to integrity, regard for public interest and responsibility for others.
CSci registration also often means:
- Improved career prospects
- Higher salaries from employers
- Increased professional esteem, recognition and status
- A internationally well-respected and recognised standard
What do I need to gain CSci?
Chartered Scientists often have a Masters degree, however applicants who do not have this but can demonstrate other relevant learning through experience can also apply.
Scientists must undertake certain practices and behaviours in order to become Chartered, such as:
- Identifying and using relevant scientific understanding
- Demonstrating effective communication
- Applying appropriate theoretical and practical methods
These are mandated by the Science Council and represent the expected professional undertakings of a Chartered Scientist. For more information, view the Science Council's CSci Competencies Guidance.
Chartered Marine Scientist (CMarSci)
Chartered Marine Scientist (CMarSci) is awarded by the IMarEST in relation to the CSci Science Council registration.
This unique award demonstrates that an individual has an industry-relevant speciality and is a proficient and dedicated scientist within the marine sector.
This is available to registrants for an annual fee of £32 after an intital fee.
Applying for CSci
To become a CSci registrant, applicants must have their competence assessed by the IMarEST according to the Science Council's standards. Members can begin the application process online here.
Not a member? Apply for CSci when you join online as a member.
View our application support page for more information. Please note that Affiliates and Student members of the IMarEST are ineligible to apply for professional registration.
Competencies required for scientists
The Science Council's CSci Competence Report Guidance details the competencies you will need to display when applying for CSci and gives examples of ways of doing this.
It outlines the requirements that have to be met and describes the value of becoming registered, explaining the steps necessary to achieve professional registration. You should use this document when completing your application for CSci.
Oceanography and Hydrography registrations
In accordance with our Royal Charter, scientists can apply for an alternative selection of exclusive registrations, demonstating specific expertise in marine science disciplines.
CMarSci (Hydrography)
What are the benefits?
As a profession, society does not recognise hydrographic surveying as it does engineering or earth sciences; partly due to it being a small industry but also because it sits within larger, more recognised professions as part of large offshore projects.
This is the first globally accepted professional qualification to encompass all aspects of hydrographic survey, providing the means for hydrographic surveyoys to be recognised as experts in their specific field.
What does a CMarSci (Hydrography) applicant do?
Registrants for this award conduct one or more of the following activities:
- Determine, measure and represent the earth, three-dimensional objects, point-fields and trajectories underwater or from the water
- Assemble and interpret seabed, water column and geographically related information
- Conduct research into the above practices and to develop them
View the standards document for the full list.
CMarSci (Oceanography)
What are the benefits?
Alongside an ever-increasing focus on understanding global climate change and the role of the oceans, there is an increasing need to ensure that there is public confidence in the work of oceanographers and of oceanography as a science.
CMarSci (Oceanography) provides an internationally recognised award that allows aspiring professionals to be recognised as professional oceanographers, ensuring trust from employers and public stakeholders.
What does a CMarSci (Oceanography) applicant do?
Registrants for this award conduct one or more of the following activities:
- Observe, measure or model the physical, chemical, geological and/or biological components of the ocean
- Produce and interpret ocean information
- Conduct research and development activities in oceanography
View the standards document for the full list.
We are the only institution in the world to provide these awards and these registration levels are assessed according to our own standards.
The application and assessment process is the same as for CSci, with members and non-members able to apply from the links on this page.
Applicants can view full details for each registration from the standards documents here: