Do you need to have a high IQ to become a scientist?

Question

Do you need to have a high IQ to become a scientist?

Answer 1

No, but you need to be reasonable bright and very motivated.  IQ is a measure of your ability to take IQ tests - it's not a good measure of intelligence.  Nothing is.  Yes, scientists tend to be bright people.  But if you want to be a scientist, don't let anything hold you back.  Just keep working at it and you'll get there eventually.

Answer 2

Judging from some I have met, no. But it sure helps.

Answer 3

I would say most scientists are pretty smart but, like in most careers, some are smarter than others.

I would say whats more important is to work hard and be creative in your thoughts about the world around you and always ask why?

Answer 4

Better tools enable you to do a better job.  IQ is a measure of your ability to think.  That in turn is a function of both the brain with which you were born, how well you took care of it (proper nourishment and rest, no drugs etc.), how much you developed it (education, practice), and how motivated you are.

If your tools aren't so great, you can make up for it in other ways, like interest, enthusiasm, and diligence.  Or you can work in the many areas of science which don't require as much abstract thought or memory.  A guidance counselor can help you make those choices.  They should learn about you, what you're good at, what you enjoy, and what interests you.