Jobs, Careers and Occupations

Biologist

Biologists Nature of Work

Biologists study living organisms and their relationship to their environment. Many biologists work in research and development. Some biologists conduct basic research to advance knowledge of living organisms, including viruses, bacteria, and other infectious agents. Biologists are employed in both laboratory and field settings by governments, environmental consulting companies, resource and utilities companies, chemical, pharmaceutical and biotechnical companies and health and educational.

Biologists Work Conditions

Biologists are required to work both in the laboratory and for extended periods at field stations. Biologists study the structures, characteristics, functions, ecology and environments to increase scientific knowledge and develop practical applications in wildlife management, conservation, agriculture and medicine.

Biologists Personal Requirements

• a keen interest in research and the study of living organisms
• a logical approach to problem solving
• able to work accurately
• able to work as part of a team
• able to work independently
• good observation skills
• good oral and written communication skills

Biologists Employment Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in biology or in a related disciplines

Biologists Duties and Tasks

Biologists may perform the following tasks:

• design and carry out environmental impact assessments to work out whether change is caused by natural or human factors
• develop long-term programs for monitoring environmental pollution
• develop programs to increase (or manage) the population of wild animals and animals in captivity
• devise methods of population control, especially of vermin and pests
• investigate the inter-relationships between animals and their environment by studying animals in their natural surroundings, in captivity and in laboratories
• participate in wildlife awareness programs for the public
• prepare or supervise the preparation of laboratory reports and scientific papers
• study and perform experiments to identify species and gather data on growth, nutrition, reproduction, prey and predators
• study the development and functions of animals
• supervise and coordinate the work of technical officers and technicians
• undertake surveys of flora and fauna and prepare reports for management agencies

Biologists Example Titles

• Bacteriologist
• Botanist
• Ecologist
• Histologist
• Immunologist
• Marine Biologist
• Microbiologist
• Molecular Biologist
• Pharmacologist
• Toxicologist
• Zoologist

Biologists Related Occupations

• Biochemists
• Agricultural Technical Officer
• Chemist
• Food Technologist
• Laboratory Worker
• Medical Laboratory Technician
• Metallurgical Technician
• Non-Destructive Testing Technician
• Physicist

Biotech Related Industries

• Agriculture
• Health / Medical
• Pharmaceutical