Field Biologist Job Description

Field biologists work mainly outside of the lab, and they study various aspects of biology such as animals, plants, and humans. They collect research for further study in their labs and publish or present their findings.

Types

Aquatic biologists go out in water-based environments and study plants and animals who live in the seas and rivers. Marine biologists study salt water organisms. Botanists work in the field as well, studying the lives of plants, and microbiologists study bacterias in the environment and food.

Functions

Field biologists conduct experiments and use their research to develop new medicines, educate the public on certain plants and animals, and recommend new policies to government officials. For example, a field biologist might visit the Gulf Coast to conduct research on coastal erosion.

Considerations

A field biologist's work environment differs according to what type of biologist he or she is. For example, a microbiologist in the field has to adhere to special safety regulations since they could be working with harmful bacteria. Marine field biologists often have to follow safety rules when being in the water.

Training

For this field, the best preparation is to have at least a bachelor's degree in biology, physics or chemistry with completed courses related to biology. In some government and academic positions, a master's degree is required and some field biologists hold a doctoral degree.

Salary

Field biologists' salaries depend on what industry you're in. If you work in microbiology, your average salary is about $57,000. If you work in the botanical field, you can earn $67,000. Also, the higher your education level is, the higher your salary can rise.

References

• Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Association of Southeastern Biologists
• National Geographic Magazine