Biological Scientist

What a Biological Scientist Does

Biological scientists specialize in the study of living organisms and their relationship to the environment around them. Much of their work is conducted through research, usually in a laboratory setting. There are two types of research that biological scientists often do. These are basic, research without an intended aim, and applied, research done with the aim of solving a problem. Most biological researchers have a specialization, whether it's biochemistry or microbiology, and do their research within this part of the biological sciences. Biological scientists spend a good part of their workday in the laboratory, conducting tests and experiments. They might also need to spend time writing grant proposals to get funding for their work if they are employed by a public institution or college. Very often, these researchers use a wide variety of high-tech equipment and must have the proper training to know how to use it effectively and safely.

How to Become a Biological Scientist

Those who'd like to work in the biological sciences can expect to spend ten to twelve years on earning the proper credentials to work in more research and teaching jobs. Students can begin this training at the undergraduate level by working towards a bachelor's degree in biology or a related sub-field. Many choose to specialize in things like biotechnology, botany, zoology, microbiology or pathology, but some schools may or may not offer all of these specializations. While a bachelor's degree might help students get work as a technician or a teacher, the best and most desirable jobs will require a PhD. Most PhD programs will take about six years to complete, after which students will want to conduct post-doctoral research. This research can allow grads to get published and form a good foundation for a career in the field.

Career Outlook for Biological Scientists

The job outlook for all specializations in the biological sciences is excellent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports growth that will be much faster than average for this field, due to the growth of the biotechnology industry and an interest in environmental protection. Job growth by specialization will be as follows: 37 percent for biochemists and biophysicists, 12 percent for microbiologists, 13 percent for zoologists and wildlife biologists and 19 percent for all other careers in biological sciences. This means about 19,200 jobs created nationwide. Those with higher level degrees will have the best job prospects, as will those who have expertise in the field of biotechnology and who want to conduct research. Salaries for those in biological science vary with experience and specialization. Those in biochemistry and biophysics can expect to make an average of $82,000 while those in microbiology will make less averaging $64,000.