zoologist

The work

Zoologists use their knowledge of animals in areas such as:

• medicine
• environmental protection and conservation
• agriculture and aquaculture
• marine biology.

They may be involved in:

• developing and testing new drugs
• improving agricultural crops and livestock
• disease and pest control
• conservation of endangered habitats and species
• animal welfare and education
• developing policies and enforcing regulations for governmental agencies.

The work includes:

• conducting field and laboratory research
• using traditional observational techniques
• using complex procedures such as computerised molecular and cellular analysis, in-vitro fertilisation and cryogenics
• analysing and interpreting data
• producing detailed technical reports.

Zoologists undertaking research in universities usually specialise in one of the many branches of zoology. These include:

• morphology and anatomy – animal structure
• embryology – reproduction and development
• genetics and evolution – inherited characteristics
• animal ecology and ecophysiology – the relationship between animals and their environment
• ecotoxicology – the effects of pollutants on animals
• behavioural studies.

Zoologists working in universities often have teaching duties.

Hours and Environment

Working hours varying according to the type of job:

• zoologists working in industry, research and higher education usually work regular hours from Monday to Friday. They may work extra hours at busy times
• field researchers work variable hours - for example they will need to work at night when studying nocturnal animals
• zoologists working in conservation may have to work evenings, weekends and bank holidays, for example to attend evening meetings, supervise volunteers or host public open days.

Working environments also vary:

• zoologists working in research and in industry spend most of their time in laboratories
• zoologists working in higher education are likely to divide their time between laboratory work and teaching in lecture theatres and classrooms
• field researchers spend a lot of their time outside. They can work all over the world and in all types of climate.

Skills and Interests

To be a zoologist you should:

• be interested in animals and the environment
• have an aptitude for sciences, particularly biology and chemistry
• be able to conduct detailed work accurately and methodically
• be inquisitive and able to plan research, analyse and interpret data, and write reports
• have practical skills and the ability to devise solutions to problems
• have patience, perseverance and the ability to concentrate for long periods
• enjoy working as part of a multi-disciplinary team
• have strong communication and IT skills.

Entry

Most zoologists have a degree. Relevant subjects include:

• zoology
• animal ecology
• wildlife biology
• marine biology
• parasitology
• animal behaviour
• ecology 
• conservation.

To get onto a degree course you will usually need:

• two or three A levels/Highers including biology; and 
• five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) including English, maths and a science subject

Alternative qualifications may be accepted. Please check with colleges or universities for exact their entry requirements.

For some jobs, particularly in research, you will need a postgraduate qualification, usually a PHd.

Training

Before you are awarded with a PhD you will need to:

• work on a research project alongside senior research colleagues to develop the skills and determination necessary for sustained individual research
• produce a thesis based on your findings
• be interviewed at length about your research.

Opportunities

Employers of zoologists include:

• universities
• government research institutions
• the NHS
• medical research establishments
• water authorities
• zoos and wildlife trusts
• environmental protection agencies.

In the private sector there are opportunities as consultants  or in technical and research roles with organisations in areas such as:

• veterinary
• agricultural
• fisheries 
• biotechnology
• chemicals
• pharmaceuticals 
• petroleum.

Zoology graduates may also find work in the education sector, with museums or other cultural organisations, or move into other jobs such as management, marketing, sales or scientific journalism.

There are opportunities for work and study overseas.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Recent graduates employed as technical assistants earn around £18,500 a year.
Zoologists in research posts earn up to £27,500 a year.
Senior lecturers in zoology at universities may be paid up to £40,000 a year.

Salaries for those working in private industry and other organisations will vary considerably.

Further information

Zoological Society of London
Regent’s Park
London
NW1 4RY
9 Red Lion Court
London
EC4A 3EF
Tel: 020 7936 5900

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