Biologist
What does a biologist do?
Get right into the nitty-gritty of how living organisms function and interact with their environment. As a biologist (also known as a life scientist) you would study the anatomy, physiology and biochemistry of humans, animals, plants and other living organisms. In terms of day-to-day work, you might be wondering 'what does a biologist do?'. The role of a biologist is varied and can involve conducting experiments, researching, preparing reports, or presenting findings. These activities could specifically relate to the forms and structures of bodily organs, or the chemical structures of living cells. Alternatively, you might be examining micro-organisms like bacteria, or investigating how plant growth is affected by environmental factors. Your research could help advance medical, industrial, or agricultural practices.
Other related occupations include immunologist, anatomist, physiologist, zoologist, botanist, microbiologist, ecologist and geneticist.
Is a career as a biologist right for me?
Careers in biology or life science requires an inquisitive nature and a fascination with all things living, from bacteria to animals to humans.
Other skills and attributes beneficial for this role include:
An ability to analyse and interpret information.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
An ability to work effectively and collaborate with a range of stakeholders.
Effective time-management and prioritisation skills.
Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.
How to become a biologist
If you're wanting to embark on a biologist career with there are multiple avenues to pursuing your aspirations in this field. To become a biologist, you typically need a bachelor degree in science or a related science field. It’s also common to complete postgraduate studies to gain specialised in-depth knowledge.
Every journey is individual and there are several paths to a career in biology. Here is one common path to becoming a biologist:
- Complete a bachelor's degree in biology or a related biological science field, such as ecology or genetics, and develop practical laboratory, fieldwork and scientific research skills.
- Gain experience through research projects, internships, volunteer work or industry placements.
- Consider postgraduate study to specialise in an area of biology and expand career opportunities.
- Apply for roles in research, environmental management, conservation, healthcare, government or industry.
- Begin your career investigating living organisms and contributing to scientific knowledge and environmental outcomes.
How long does it take to become a biologist?
The time it takes to become a biologist can vary depending on your previous education, the training requirements of specific fields, and employment opportunities.
There are multiple pathways for you to take at UniSQ to work towards a biologist career. Often, an undergraduate degree is required for this profession, which typically takes three-years to complete. You can also choose to undertake an undergraduate degree in a discipline other than biology, followed by a postgraduate degree in a specialised area of biological sciences.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Prepare for a career as a biologist with a UniSQ degree and develop the scientific, analytical and research skills used to investigate living organisms and contribute to solutions in environmental, agricultural, health and conservation settings.
Responsibilities and work settings
Planning and conducting scientific experiments and investigations.
Collecting, recording and analysing biological data and samples.
Undertaking laboratory work and field research.
Monitoring and studying living organisms and their interactions with the environment.
Preparing reports, scientific papers and presentations to communicate findings.
Using research to inform conservation, environmental management, agriculture or health initiatives.
Collaborating with other scientists, researchers and industry professionals.
Maintaining accurate records and following research, safety and ethical standards.
Research institutes and research centres
Agricultural and agribusiness organisations
Universities and higher education providers
Environmental and sustainability organisations
Government agencies, departments and councils
Biologist FAQs
- Marine biologists study the living organisms in oceans and other bodies of water, examining marine species, their interactions, and the ecosystems that support them.
- Wildlife biologists focus on studying animals and wildlife in their natural habitats, observing the behaviour, genetics, and interaction of wildlife with their ecosystems.
- Molecular biologists work on the cellular and molecular level to understand the structure and function of cells, including DNA, RNA, and proteins are often based in medical and research settings.
- Ecologists study the relationships between organisms and their environments, looking at how species interact with each other and their surroundings.
- Zoologists specialise in studying animals, their behaviour, genetics, and the way they interact with their ecosystems, often focusing on specific types of animals.
Ongoing research into environmental and ecological health bolsters demand for biologists, particularly for roles involving fieldwork and data analysis. Developments in environmental policies and regulations often require the expertise of marine and wildlife biologists to help shape and implement strategies.
Related careers
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