How to Become a Biology Professor

Professors teach in universities or colleges or other institutions of higher learning. Becoming a biology professor, in particular, can take years of training, since knowledge is even more important in a field essential to medical and other health and science professionals.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Take related classes in high school. Biology is a challenging career, and you should be as prepared as possible by taking science, chemistry and physics in high school. Computer science is also important, since much of the information used by scientists is now held in databases, software programs and field websites.

2. Expect to stay in school for a long time. Many biology professors hold a Ph.D., which can take up to ten years of studying. At a minimum, you will need a Bachelor’s Degree, or a Master's if you want to teach at university level.

3. Stay up-to-date in your field by attending conferences and lectures offered by other professors or by experts in related fields. The more you know, the easier it will be to get ahead and obtain tenure. Many universities offer international exchanges for students and graduates wishing to expand their knowledge.

4. Take lots of lab classes. As a biology professor, you will be expected to lead students in both theory and practice by leading labs and teaching sensible applications of things learned in lectures and workshops.

5. Be ready to work your way up. Most professors start as Assistant Professors, then work as Associates and eventually become full professors. Becoming a full biology professor is the ultimate goal, as this guarantees tenure, which comes with job security for life. Full professors should demonstrate their ability to do research, write papers and obtain grants before they can achieve that position.

Tips & Warnings

• It will take 10-12 years of studying to achieve the position of full professor, counting years of university, post-graduate studies and lab or research projects.
• Biology is a competitive field. Since there is a limited number of positions to fill and a larger number of applicants, you should have concentrate on a branch that is broadly requested, such as molecular biology, to up your chances of landing a tenure faster.

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