Biologists
What is a Biologist?
A biologist is a scientist who studies living organisms, their relationships to their environment, and their biological processes. This field encompasses a wide range of specialties, including but not limited to cellular biology, molecular biology, genetics, ecology, evolution, and physiology. Biologists may perform experiments, conduct field research, and analyze data to understand the complexities of life, from the microscopic structures of cells to the intricate ecosystems of the natural world.
Biologists seek to answer critical questions about life and its various forms, including how organisms function, adapt, and evolve over time. They may work in laboratory settings, conducting controlled experiments, or in the field, observing organisms in their natural habitats. Their research can have significant implications for areas such as medicine, conservation, agriculture, and biotechnology. By understanding biological processes, biologists contribute to advancements in health care, environmental protection, and sustainable practices.
Many biologists specialize in particular areas such as biochemistry, microbiology, or marine biology, honing their expertise in the complexity of specific organisms or ecosystems. They often collaborate with other scientists, educators, and policymakers to apply their findings to real-world issues, communicate their research to broader audiences, and contribute to scientific knowledge.
Tasks
- Prepare technical and research reports, such as environmental impact reports, and communicate the results to individuals in industry, government, or the general public.
- Develop and maintain liaisons and effective working relations with groups and individuals, agencies, and the public to encourage cooperative management strategies or to develop information and interpret findings.
- Collect and analyze biological data about relationships among and between organisms and their environment.
- Program and use computers to store, process, and analyze data.
- Supervise biological technicians and technologists and other scientists.
Technology Skills
- Analytical or scientific software
- Presentation software
- Object or component oriented development software
- Geographic information system
- Development environment software
Tools Used
- Robotic or automated liquid handling systems
- Stereo or dissecting light microscopes
- Dropping pipettes
- Commercial fishing nets
- Drying cabinets or ovens
Knowledge
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Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
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Law and Government
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Skills
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Science
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Abilities
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Category Flexibility
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Master's degree
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Bachelor's degree
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Post-baccalaureate certificate
Awarded for completion of an organized program of study; designed for people who have completed a Baccalaureate degree, but do not meet the requirements of academic degrees carrying the title of Master
Work Activities
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
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Documenting/Recording Information
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
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Processing Information
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Detailed Work Activities
- Communicate results of environmental research.
- Prepare research or technical reports on environmental issues.
- Develop collaborative relationships between departments or with external organizations.
- Conduct research of processes in natural or industrial ecosystems.
- Collect environmental data or samples.
Work Interests
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$52230.0 - $158730.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.