8.3.09

Careers in the Biological Sciences

Pursuing a career in biology can be immensely rewarding and exciting. Studying biology teaches us to ask questions, make observations, evaluate evidence, and solve problems. Biologists learn how living things work, how they interact with one another, and how they evolve. They may study cells under a microscope, insects in a rainforest, viruses that affect human beings, plants in a greenhouse, or lions in the African grasslands. Their work increases our understanding about the natural world in which we live and helps us address issues of personal well being and worldwide concern, such as environmental depletion, threats to human health, and maintaining viable and abundant food supplies.

New directions in biological careers: There are many careers for biologists who want to combine their scientific training with interests in other fields. Here are some examples:
• Biotechnology: Biologists apply scientific principles to develop and enhance products, tools, and technological advances in fields such as agriculture, food science, and medicine.
• Forensic science: Forensic biologists work with police departments and other law enforcement agencies using scientific methods to discover and process evidence that can be used to solve crimes.
• Politics and policy: Science advisors work with lawmakers to create new legislation on topics such as biomedical research and environmental protection. Their input is essential, ensuring that decisions are based upon solid science.
• Business and industry: Biologists work with drug companies and providers of scientific products and services to research and test new products. They also work in sales, marketing, and public relations positions.
• Economics: Trained professionals work with the government and other organizations to study and address the economic impacts of biological issues, such as species extinctions, forest protection, and environmental pollution.
• Mathematics: Biologists in fields such as bioinformatics and computational biology apply mathematical techniques to solve biological problems, such as modeling ecosystem processes and gene sequencing.
• Science writing and communication: Journalists and writers with a science background inform the general public about relevant and emerging biological issues.
• Art: All the illustrations in your biology textbook, as well as in newspaper and magazine science articles, were created by talented artists with a thorough understanding of biology.

List of Careers
Health/Medical
Physician (numerous specialties)
X-ray Technician
Veterinarian
Nurse
Dentist
Chiropractor
Health Administrators
Cytogenetic technician
Medical Technician
Pharmacist
Physical Therapist
Paramedic
Research/Clinical
Biologist
Pharmaceutical Researcher
Chemist
Research Zoologist
Forest Pest Mgmt Specialist
Marine Studies Specialist
Microbiologist
Epidemiology Researcher
Genomic Researcher
Biostatistician
Entomologist
Biochemical Toxicologist
Perfusionist
Education
Science teacher
Professor
Elementary School Principal
Communications
Editor in a Publishing House
Freelance Writer
Editor, Health-related publication
Editor, Environmental publication
Communications Specialist
Psychology/Mental Health/Counseling Counselor
Psychologist
Social Worker
Business
Greenhouse manager
Farmer
Nursing Home Administrator
Investment Securities Broker
Corporate Vice President
Human Resources Manager
Wholesaler
Business Executive
Risk Management Specialist