Scientists are people who study the natural world by observing, testing, and recording information. They work in fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science. Scientists collect data and study plants, animals, materials, and natural processes. Their work often takes place in laboratories, universities, or outdoor research sites.

Scientists are found in countries around the world and have existed since ancient times. Early scientists studied the stars, plants, and human body. Today, scientists continue to work in many areas of research. Their work is part of how knowledge about the world is organized and shared.