Biology Jobs and Careers

Biology is a wide field with many disciplines and job opportunities for graduates. Most biology jobs require at least an associate's or bachelor's degree. Biology-related sectors are generally growing, with some areas growing faster than others. Biology is a competitive field, and extensive work experience is often required for more popular positions.

Biologists are employed in a variety of sectors. These include universities and research organizations, schools and colleges, scientific consultants, biotech and pharmaceutical companies, healthcare organizations, charities and in public outreach organizations such as museums.

Most Common Job Titles and Descriptions

Technicians apply specific scientific methodology to carry out studies and generate usable data. They work in many different fields and industries.

Average salary: $40,000

Zoologists study the characteristics and behavior of animals, either to help with their conservation or to improve our knowledge of a particular species or genus. They collect and analyze data, carry out studies and collect samples to learn more about their animals of interest.

Average salary: $58,000

Environmental scientists study the environment by gathering data and monitoring environmental conditions to better understand the world we live in. The data they collect and study helps them to clean up polluted areas, advise policy makers, and partner with industry professionals to help them comply with environmental laws and reduce unnecessary waste.

Average Salary: $63,000

Marine biologists study animal life in seas, lakes, and waterways. They observe and collect data on different species, monitor the effects of industry on aquatic life, and work in outreach organizations such as aquariums and zoos.

Average salary: $58,000

Microbiologists study microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi and algae to understand how they interact with their environment and learn more about their behavior. They are employed in a wide range of industries, including medical, government, healthcare, industry and legal.

Average salary: $66,000

Biology Jobs Salary Statistics and Growth

Compared to physics and math graduates, biology job salaries are on the lower end of the STEMS payscale. This is partly because biology is one of the most popular areas of STEMS, and there is less of a shortage of qualified candidates than in other areas. Some areas are highly vocational and have correspondingly lower pay. However biology salaries are still competitive and are generally over $40,000 per year.

Biology Job Field Growth or Decline

The field of biology is growing, but not as fast as other STEMs areas. Biologists are needed in fast growing sectors such as medical research and biotechnology, and to study the impact of human population growth on the environment.

Job Certifications, Training, Education Requirements

Most biology jobs and careers require at least an associate’s degree, if not a bachelor’s or master’s, and students hoping to become researchers may need a PhD. Most students try to acquire some work experience during or after their studies, as biology is a competitive area.

Where Can I Go From Here?

Biologists are employed in a range of industries, including healthcare, conservation, education, forensic science, local and federal government, biotechnology, industry, and many more. Biology graduates have a wide range of opportunities and areas to specialize in.

Sources:

• http://jobsearch.about.com/od/college/ss/Top-Ten-Jobs-for-Biology-Majors.htm#step2
• http://learn.org/articles/Biologist_Career_Definition_Job_Outlook_and_Education_Requirements.html
• http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biological-technicians.htm#tab-7
• http://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/careers-advice/what-can-you-do-biology-degree
• http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/microbiologists.htm
• http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/home.htm
• http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/zoologists-and-wildlife-biologists.htm
• http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biological-technicians.htm
• http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes191029.htm#ind