What Is A Biologist?
A biologist is a scientist who studies living organisms and their interactions with each other and their environments. They use this knowledge to understand how living systems work, and apply their findings to various fields, such as medicine, agriculture, and environmental conservation. Biologists work in a diverse range of specializations, including ecology, genetics, molecular biology, and physiology.
Biologist Duties
Biologists typically perform the following tasks:
- Design and conduct research experiments, collecting and analyzing data to understand different aspects of life.
- Develop and test hypotheses using scientific methods and principles.
- Use specialized tools and equipment, such as microscopes, chromatographs, and incubators, to carry out research work.
- Study the relationships between organisms and their environments, including the impact of human activities on ecosystems.
- Publish research findings in scientific journals and present findings at conferences.
- Collaborate with other scientists and professionals in related fields.
- Ensure that their work complies with relevant regulations, ethical guidelines, and best practices.
Day In The Life of a Biologist
A typical day for a biologist might involve a mix of laboratory work, field research, data analysis, and collaboration with colleagues. They may start their day by checking on the progress of ongoing experiments, adjusting conditions as needed, and recording observations. Biologists may also spend time collecting samples from the field, such as plants, soil, or animal specimens, or analyzing data from previous experiments.
In the afternoon, a biologist might review and analyze data from completed experiments, using statistical software or specialized tools. They might also attend meetings to discuss research findings with colleagues, plan future research projects, or collaborate on interdisciplinary projects.
Biologist Work Schedule
The work schedule of a biologist can be quite varied, depending on the nature of their research and the specific field they are in. Many biologists work a standard 40-hour work week, conducting research in laboratories or offices. However, fieldwork can require longer hours, travel, and potentially harsh conditions.
Biologists must often meet deadlines for grant applications, research publications, or presentations, which can result in periods of increased workload and overtime. The job requires mental focus, attention to detail, and the ability to handle a variety of tasks and responsibilities.
Growth Of The Biologist Career
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of biological scientists is projected to grow 5% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth can be attributed to various factors, such as the increasing need for research in medicine, agriculture, and environmental conservation.
Typical Biologist Employers
Biologists can work in a variety of organizations, including:
- Universities and research institutions
- Pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies
- Government agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- Nonprofit organizations focused on environmental conservation, health, and research
- Consulting firms and private research laboratories
Some biologists also work as independent researchers or freelancers.
How To Become A Biologist
To become a biologist, the following qualifications are typically required:
- A bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field, such as biochemistry, genetics, or ecology. Advanced research positions often require a master’s or doctoral degree.
- Research experience gained through internships, undergraduate research projects, or graduate research assistantships.
- Familiarity with specialized tools, laboratory techniques, and analytic software used in the field.
- For certain positions, certifications or licensures may be required, such as the Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) credential.
Biologist Salary Data
According to the BLS, the median annual wage for biological scientists in 2020 was $85,290. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $52,620, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $135,630. The median hourly wage was about $41.00, with a range of $25.30 to $65.20.
Popular Colleges for Biologist
Popular colleges for pursuing a biology-related degree include:
- Harvard University
- Stanford University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of Chicago
Job Growth Projections And Forecast for Biologist
The BLS estimates that there were 42,100 biological scientists employed in the United States in 2019. With a projected growth rate of 5% between 2019 and 2029, this equates to an estimated 2,100 new jobs in the field over the decade. The growth in demand for biologists can be attributed to the ongoing need for scientific research and the application of biological knowledge to
