Biology Jobs
Biology is the study of all living things. There are many different specialist areas within it, including humans, animals (zoology), plants (botany) and microbiology, and the complex relationships between these things and their environment (ecology).
Botanist
Botanists study plants, including their reproduction and growth, distribution, and how pests and diseases affect them.
Some botanists count and classify the number of plant species in a particular region. Their findings help to build up a picture of our plant life, including how it changes and is affected by pollution, such as acid rain, or overgrazing by animals.
Botanists also work in agriculture, finding ways to stop pests damaging crops. Some botanists work for agrochemical companies, developing pesticides.
Others investigate how to improve crop yields or make crops more resistant to pests and diseases. They can use either traditional plant breeding techniques or genetic modification.
Microbiologist
Microbiologists study life forms such as bacteria and viruses (‘micro-organisms’ or ‘microbes’) that are too small to be seen without a microscope. Some microbes cause disease, but others are harmless and some can be used to benefit humans.
For example, sewage treatment relies on bacteria and protozoa that break down the waste material. In medical research and pharmaceutical companies, microbiologists help to develop drugs and vaccines.
In the food and drink industry, microbiologists use microbes to help make products such as beer, wine, bread and yoghurt.
Many microbiologists are involved in environmental work, eg, using microbes to break down industrial waste. In agriculture, they can use microbes to tackle the pests and diseases that affect crops.
Zoological Scientist
Zoological scientists specialise in the study of animal life, including their physiology, reproduction and genetics, behaviour, diseases and ecology.
Zoological scientists help to protect endangered species, prevent pests from damaging crops, develop and test drugs to treat both animals and humans, and undertake environmental surveys.
Ecologist
Ecologists study how organisms relate to each other and their environment. They look at the impact of human activity, such as intensive farming and industrial development, on the habitat and development of plants and animals.
They advise local councils, civil engineering and industrial companies on how planned developments will affect the local environment.
Some ecologists have long-term responsibility for conservation areas, working as site managers, rangers or wardens. They protect the area against pollution and vandalism, and give information to visitors.