Science & Mathematics Division

Careers

BIOLOGIST

Biologists study many aspects of living things. Many biologists are involved in teaching and research or in applied areas such as agriculture, forestry, and medicine.

Areas of Specialization:

• Biotechnology
• Animal behavior
• Genetics
• Botany
• Ecology
• Zoology
• Biochemistry
• Cellular biology
• Anatomy
• Aquatic Biology
• Microbiology
• Physiology

Work Activities:

• Design controlled experiments
• Collect and analyze scientific data
• Write and publish reports and/or environmental impact statements
• Plan and supervise projects
• Apply scientific knowledge to solve biological problems
• Collect and identify biological specimens
• Observe plants and animals in their natural habitat

Skills and Aptitudes:

• Thoroughness and attention to detail
• Strong math and verbal skills
• Ability to visualize objects from drawings and descriptions
• Ability to think conceptually
• Ability to collect and objectively analyze data

Work Settings and Employers:

• Colleges and universities
• Laboratories
• State and federal government
• Offices and outdoor field sites
• Medical schools and hospitals
• Private industries

Related Occupations:

• Agricultural Scientist
• Nursery Worker
• Earth Scientist
• Life Scientist
• Fish and Wildlife Technician
• Physical Scientist
• Forester
• Science Technician
• University and/or College Professor
• Marine Biologist

Hiring Practices:

• Bachelor’s degree with graduate degree essential for advancement and for research and teaching positions
• Apprenticeships, internships, technical preparation, and/or cooperative learning experiences helpful