Outpost scientist

An outpost scientist was a Federation scientist who conducted research on a fixed installation in a remote region of space, such as outposts or space stations.

After the personnel of the space laboratory Regula I were informed that the crew of the USS Reliant intended to collect the Genesis Device in 2285, Doctor David Marcus complained that "[the Reliant was] supposed to be at our disposal, not vice-versa." When it was pointed out by Madison, another of the lab scientists that "It seems clear that Starfleet never intended that," the charged Dr. Marcus bitterly opined, "I've tried to tell you before. Scientists have always been pawns of the military." (Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan)

In contrast, Commander Jack Ransom complained, in 2381, that outpost scientists were always getting into dangerous situations because they were "weirdos". He proceeded to rant that if someone wanted to explore space, they should join Starfleet and go to Starfleet Academy. (LD: "Mining The Mind's Mines") Later that year, the scientists from Outpost 76 set up a recruitment booth on Tulgana IV, where it was advertised that "Outpost Science is REAL Science!". When two outpost scientists later taunted Ensigns Brad Boimler and Beckett Mariner at the Starfleet booth, they made fun of how often Starfleet updates their uniforms, adding, "Us outpost scientists wear whatever we want. Like this belt." After the scientist called Boimler's pip "jewelry", and tossed it, Boimler exploded in a fit of rage, causing the scientists to run for cover. (LD: "Reflections")

Still later the same year, the USS Cerritos assisted in repairs to the power relays at the outpost on Persioff IX, where the outpost scientists there studied the tremble lizard. When the lead scientist was told by Lieutenant Mariner that "if you served in Starfleet, you'd get to study a new alien every other week and not just, like, one creepy creature." The outpost scientist justified his position stating, "I'm in an academic romance with the tremble lizards. They are my passion." Moments later, the outpost's energy barrier was compromised by the tremble lizards, and Mariner risked her life to make the necessary repairs to stop the lizards. Upon viewing her reaction, the lead scientist exclaimed, "My word, she must love outpost scientists!", but he was, however informed by Boimler, "Yeah, no, she thinks you're weirdos." (LD: "The Inner Fight")