biologist

The work

Biologists study living things, and can work in wide range of fields, including:

• developing new medicines and treatments for illness and disease
• working with doctors to diagnose, monitor and treat patients
• testing the effectiveness and safety of medicines and other products
• working in industry to prevent contamination of food or helping with waste disposal
• advising on agricultural, environmental or conservation issues
• helping to protect, conserve and develop wildlife habitats
• studying plants and animals in their natural habitats.

Biologists work in a team with other scientists and technicians. They design and conduct experiments, make observations, and write up the work in reports and scientific papers. They will often supervise the work of support staff and carry out administrative work. Biologists working in universities or teaching hospitals will be involved in teaching and supervising students.

Biologists will usually specialise in one or two areas which can include:

• animal biology
• biochemistry
• biotechnology
• ecology
• environmental biology
• genetics
• immunology
• marine biology
• microbiology
• molecular biology
• plant biology and physiology.

Hours and Environment

Most biologists work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, with occasional evening and weekend work. Shifts, nights, or on-call work are usual if providing a round-the-clock service to the public, as in the NHS.

Biologists work in laboratories, but may work in the field, sometimes in arduous conditions. Protective clothing is worn to prevent contamination and avoid contact with hazardous substances. Fieldwork may involve travel and periods away from home.

Skills and Interests

To be a biologist, you should:

• have practical scientific skills and theoretical knowledge
• have an enquiring mind and be able to think clearly and logically
• be good at problem solving, with a methodical approach to your work
• be able to work accurately and pay great attention to detail when working in the laboratory
• be able to work with, and lead, a team of professionals
• have excellent verbal and written communication skills
• be able to keep up with advances in your field, by reading relevant scientific literature
• understand statistics and relevant computer packages
• be willing to undertake any fieldwork when required.

Entry

Most entrants are graduates and many have a postgraduate qualification in an appropriate subject. Increasingly, relevant work experience is needed before applying for a first job.

The minimum entry requirements for degree courses are five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) in science subjects, English and maths, plus two A levels/three or four H grades or equivalent qualifications. Many institutions offer a one-year foundation or bridging course for students who have not studied the appropriate science subjects.

An Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to certain courses. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

The Institute of Biology have a number of student support initiatives. Contact the Institute for details; see Further Information.

It is possible to train as a technician in biology for which you will need at least four GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) including science, English and maths or equivalent. Applicants for technician posts increasingly have A levels/H grades, vocational A levels, BTEC National, BTEC HNC/HND or degrees in science subjects.

Training

Biologists are usually given on-the-job training which helps them keep up to date with their specialist area, and keep abreast of health and safety regulations.

Many biologists will study for a postgraduate qualification, a higher degree, or take exams for membership or fellowship of a professional body. There is also an NVQ/SVQ Level 4 in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities.

The Institute of Biology have a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) pilot scheme, which seeks to enable biologists to maintain and build-on their knowledge and skills.

There are a range of qualifications appropriate for biology technicians, including:

• NVQ/SVQ at levels 2 to 4 in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities, or Clinical Laboratory Support
• a BTEC National, BTEC HNC/HND or degree in, for example, applied biology.

Opportunities

There are opportunities for employment in the public and private sector, in a wide range of fields, for example: research and development, scientific analysis and investigation, education and the media, administration. Certain jobs may be restricted due to the geographical location of an employer or the nature of the work.

Prospects for employment are good. There may be opportunities to move into other areas such as management. Increasingly, scientists are working for small or medium-sized companies, as larger companies outsource ‘spinout’ companies from universities.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

A research biologist with a PhD, may earn around £20,000 to £30,000 a year.
Senior university lecturers can earn between £33,000 and £39,000.
University professors can earn around £53,000.

Further information

9 Red Lion Court
London
EC4A 3EF
Tel: 020 7936 5900

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