Content Collection: Careers at Nonprofits and NGOs
October 21, 2011
When we think about jobs at nonprofit organizations (NPOs), we're likely to envision those big international entities that help displaced populations relocate after a natural disaster, or immunize children in developing countries against common diseases. While these nonprofits -- many also classified as NGOs, or nongovernmental organizations -- are very visible and play an important social and humanitarian role, they are only the tip of the employment iceberg. NPOs, which can make money and even generate surplus funds but must use those funds to serve the organization's mission, encompass a very broad range. Charities, foundations, service organizations, patient associations, trade unions, professional associations, and academic societies are almost always NPOs. Most private research institutes are nonprofits, too, but those jobs fit better in a discussion of academic careers.
Just as NPOs take many forms, so do the careers of the Ph.D. scientists who work there. Still, some generalizations make sense: Many of the people who work in NPOs do so because of a deep commitment to the goals those organizations pursue.
The work that needs doing is endless; the needs of the sick, poor, and others are never fulfilled. Wars start and natural disasters strike all too often. Yet, paid jobs are few and very competitive, the work is often difficult, and pay is low. Still, many people who work in the nonprofit sector talk of abundant rewards and a sense of purpose.
Over the years, Science Careers has explored the careers of many scientists working in nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations. This collection is our one-stop shop for advice and insight on how to enter a committed career.
Want more? A search in Science Careers for “volunteering” currently returns 301 articles; “nonprofit”, 235; “not-for-profit”, 48, and “nongovernmental” returns 17 articles.
Elisabeth Pain is contributing editor for Europe. | |
10.1126/science.caredit.a1100118 |
