Who's a Biologist?
Do you enjoy learning about different living things – how they look, where they live, what they do? Are you curious about how plants and animals interact with other living beings? If so, consider a career in biology!
Biology, as you may know, is the study of living things. As a biologist, you will, essentially, study life. You will learn how an organism comes into existence, its growth, functions and where it lives. Biology is an incredibly vast science that includes the study of plants (botany), animals (zoology) and microorganisms (microbiology). Curious to know more about this career? Click here to find out.
What will you do?
Where will you work?
How do you get there?
What skills would you need?
Analytical and Data Skills
Analytical and data skills involve the ability to evaluate information, interpret data, and draw insights to solve problems or make informed decisions. These skills require critical thinking, logical reasoning, and proficiency in working with data sets, often using tools like Excel, SQL, or statistical software. This skill set helps you break down complex problems, identify patterns, and make data-driven decisions. In the workplace, strong analytical and data skills allow you to provide insights that guide strategies, optimise processes, and drive innovation. They are essential for roles involving research, business analysis, marketing, finance, and operations. build this skill
Scientific Skills
Scientific skills encompass a range of abilities that enable individuals to conduct scientific research, understand scientific concepts, and apply scientific reasoning. Having strong scientific skills is crucial in fields such as healthcare, environmental science, engineering, and research, as they underpin the ability to innovate and solve complex problems. They also foster a deeper understanding of how scientific principles impact everyday life. build this skill
Research
Research is the systematic process of collecting, analysing, and interpreting information to increase understanding of a particular topic or issue. It involves identifying a question or problem, gathering relevant data, and evaluating sources to draw meaningful conclusions. Research can take various forms, including qualitative studies (which explore perceptions and experiences) and quantitative studies (which focus on numerical data and statistics). Strong research skills will enable you to find reliable information, assess the credibility of sources, and synthesise findings to support decision-making or further exploration. This skill is crucial in many fields, such as academia, business, healthcare, and technology, where informed decisions rely on thorough investigation and analysis. build this skill
Attention to Detail
Attention to detail means being careful and noticing small things that others might miss. It involves checking your work carefully for mistakes, following instructions exactly, and making sure everything is done correctly. This skill helps you do accurate work and avoid errors. In jobs, attention to detail is important for tasks like writing reports, managing data, or following safety rules. build this skill
Communication Skills
Communication skills are the ability to clearly express ideas, information, and feelings, both verbally and in writing, so others can easily understand. This includes listening effectively, using the right tone, and being aware of non-verbal cues like body language. These skills help you explain your thoughts clearly, build relationships, and work better in teams. Good communication is important in almost every job, from customer service to leadership roles, because it ensures that tasks are understood and done correctly, and it helps prevent misunderstandings. build this skillHow do you make it to the top ranks?
Intern
As an intern, you would most likely assist a professor or researcher in the field. You may have to document findings, ensure proper care of the organism and perform other tasks assigned to you. This time will be all about learning.
Junior Biologist
As this is an entry-level job, you will take on simple tasks such as conducting research, experiments and tests that would further help senior biologists evaluate their work. You would also prepare reports on the various findings.
Senior Biologist
At this stage, you will work on independent projects or have assignments given to you. You will oversee the planning and working of the task. You will have juniors and interns working under you. Depending on your area of specialisation, you may also have to travel. For example, a senior wildlife biologist may have to travel to different countries to study wildlife in their natural habitat.
Researcher
Once you’ve established your credibility in the field, you can get government or private grants to work on your own projects on experiments. You can conduct these experiments as a lone wolf or even hire a team to work with you. Depending on your grant and where you work, you would have access to state-of-the-art equipment.
How much would you get paid?
Your exact salary will depend on various factors, such as the company you're working in and the type of role you've undertaken.
What are your career options?
Biological Technician
As a biological technician, you would be involved in testing blood, urine or cell samples to assist in disease diagnosis and treatment. You would also prepare accurate reports and ensure their compliance with the set quality standards of your facility. You work in a laboratory and utilize various equipment like imaging systems to perform your tasks.
Zoology
Zoologists study a variety of animal species. You would be studying animal behaviour patterns, their characteristics, how they interact with their ecosystems, etc. You would also be involved in research, animal management, and awareness.
Botany
Botanists study plants. These include trees, flowering plants, plant-like things such as moss and seaweed, etc. You will study plants along with their growth, structure, evolution, and uses.
Microbiology
Microbiologists study microscopic (invisible to the naked eye) life forms and processes. You will study the growth, interactions and characteristics of microscopic organisms such as bacteria, algae, fungi, and other types of parasites.
Marine Biology
Marine biologists study organisms and ecosystems in the ocean and other saltwater environments. You will study the interactions between marine plants and animals in their own enviroment and their interactions with coastal areas and the atmosphere.
Forensic Biology
Forensic biologists typically work for law enforcement agencies and private forensic science laboratories. You will examine various pieces of biological evidence collected from crime scenes, including human hair and blood. This will help you extract clues and pinpoint culprits.
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