Suitably qualified scientists and engineers are essential for research and development, innovation and, in turn, the growth of the economy. Science, engineering and technology skills are therefore necessary for Australia to remain competitive in a global market. This article reports findings from a nationwide study investigating the career pathways of science, engineering and technology research postgraduates. The study found that one-third of science, engineering and technology postgraduates travelled overseas to secure employment due to a lack of job security and poor generic "employability" skills. Gender discrimination in these traditionally male-dominated fields was experienced to a far greater degree by women than by men. The study identified the need to explore further the links between industry and academia and to invest strategically in science, engineering and technology in higher education to create opportunities for early career researchers. (Contains 5 tables and 1 figure.)