Biologist Career

Entering a career as a biologist requires one to have a passion for the environment.  The love for discovering and learning about how living organisms and how they interact with the environment will give one an opportunity to become a biologist.  A biologist can either specialize in the study of animals or plants.  One can specialize and become an ecologist, botanist, physiologist, zoologist, aquatic or marine biologist, microbiologist, biophysicist or biochemist.  Entering this career requires one to have good communication skills.  A biologist must be analytical and is driven by the desire to learn more.

How to become a Biologist

To become a biologist, one has to earn a bachelor’s degree in biology.  One can pursue a master’s or doctorate degree and specialize in a specific area of biology. Becoming an expert in one area gives one an opportunity to advance in his career.  One may choose to do a part-time job or volunteer in an area of biology.  Doing this will help one decide what he is really interested in and pursue a specific specialization.  Aside from that, one can gain relevant practical experience and have a view of what tasks a biologist does.

Biologist Courses, training, programs

Biology courses and training programs deal with various areas of biology, chemistry, and physics. One will gain a background in molecular biology, chemical biology, physical biology, genetics, cell biology, ecology and other related sciences.  Courses on communication are also offered, equipping one with the necessary writing and speaking skills. One has the chance to gain practical skills and enjoy a hands-on experience by doing lots of laboratory work.  An aspiring biologist learns how to work both independently and with a team.

TOP 5 colleges/Universities

Stanford University, California

Harvard University-Cambridge, Massachusetts

University of California, California

Johns Hopkins University, Maryland

Washington University in Saint Louis, Missouri

Biologist Jobs, opportunities, salaries/pay

A biologist may earn an average of $74,000 per year.  The salary depends on one’s educational background and experience.  A biologist works in research facilities.  Conducting research and experiments requires a biologist to have flexible working hours at times but this career is definitely fulfilling.