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Biologists study living organisms and their relationship to the environment. They perform research to gain a better understanding of fundamental life processes or apply that understanding to developing new products or processes.
Most biologists specialize in one area:
- zoology
- microbiology
- marine biology
- aquatic biology
- biochemistry
- botany
- physiology
- biophysics
- ecology
Many biologists work in research and development. Some conduct basic research to advance our knowledge of living organisms, including bacteria and other infectious agents. Basic biological research enhances our understanding so that we can develop solutions to human health problems and improve the natural environment.
Biologists usually conduct research in laboratories using a wide variety of other equipment. Some conduct experiments involving animals or plants. This is particularly true of botanists, physiologists and zoologists. Some biological research also takes place outside the laboratory. For example, a botanist might do field research in tropical rain forests to see which plants grow there, or an ecologist might study how a forest area recovers after a fire.
How long will it take?
A Ph.D. degree usually is necessary for independent research, industrial research and college teaching, as well as for advancement to administrative positions. A master’s degree is sufficient for some jobs in applied research, product development, management, or inspection; it also may qualify one to work as a research technician or a teacher. The bachelor’s degree is adequate for some nonresearch jobs.
At Amarillo College, you can earn the first two years of a bachelor's degree before doing graduate work.
How much can you earn?
Median annual earnings in 2006:
biochemists and biophysicists -- $76,320
microbiologists -- $57,980
zoologists and wildlife biologists -- $53,300 in 2006
general biological scientists -- $72,146
geneticists -- $91,470
botanists -- $67,218
Where can you work?
Doctoral degree holders are expected to face competition for basic research positions. Currently, about 1 in 4 grant proposals are approved for long-term research projects. People with bachelor’s and master’s degrees are expected to have more opportunities in nonscientist jobs related to biology. Many research scientists must submit grant proposals to obtain funding for their projects. Colleges and universities, private industry and Federal Government agencies such as the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation contribute to the support of scientists whose research proposals are determined to be financially feasible and to have the potential to advance new ideas or processes.
AC can help you get there!
