Biologist
Job Description:Biologists study living things, including people, animals and plants.
Job Category:What you will do:
You could specialise in an area like:
- biotechnology
- ecology
- immunology
- marine biology
- microbiology
- molecular biology
You could use your skills in a variety of ways:
- in agriculture, to improve productivity in livestock or crops
- in the environment, to clean polluted rivers
- in conservation, to protect plants and animals
- in medicine, to develop new methods to diagnose, monitor and treat illness or disease
- in industry, to prevent food contamination or create ways to dispose of waste safely
You may also:
- design and carry out experiments, make observations, write reports and publish scientific papers
- teach students, if you’re based at a university or teaching hospital
- supervise support staff (leadership skills)
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of biology
- maths knowledge
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- excellent written communication skills
- analytical thinking skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to work well with your hands
- the ability to use your initiative (drive)
Entry Requirements:
You’ll usually need a relevant degree and a MSc or PhD in a biological science. Employers may also want you to have experience in your area of interest and, if you don’t already have one, be working towards a PhD.
Relevant subjects include:
- biology
- biological science
- plant biology
- microbiology
- conservation biology
In the UK, you may be able to become a biologist through a Higher Apprenticeship for Life Sciences and Chemical Science Professionals.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll usually work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, with occasional evening and weekend shifts. You could be based in a laboratory, a classroom, in industry or on a research ship at sea.
Fieldwork can sometimes take place in challenging conditions.
Career Path & Progression:
You could move into management, teaching, the media, administration and scientific journalism.