A researcher can be a scientist by following a structured path of academic education, gaining practical experience, and developing specific scientific skills. Typically, a researcher becomes a scientist by obtaining an honours bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific or social science discipline, progressing to a postgraduate degree (master's or PhD), and acquiring hands-on research experience in laboratory or field settings. Along the way, they develop critical thinking, communication, attention to detail, and expertise in scientific methods, enabling them to plan, conduct, analyze, and disseminate experiments and findings in their scientific field. This combination of education, practice, and skills qualifies a researcher to be recognized as a scientist actively contributing to scientific knowledge and advancements.