
List of Careers in Biology What Can You Do with a Biology Degree? How to Choose the Right Career in Biology Tips for Success in a Career in Biology Common Mistakes to Avoid Conclusion Tables
Biology is an exciting and diverse field that offers a wide range of career opportunities. From working in a research laboratory to teaching in a school, there are many different ways to use your biology degree to make a difference in the world.

Here are just a few of the many careers that you can pursue with a degree in biology:
Research
- Biochemist: Study the chemical processes that occur in living organisms.
- Bioinformatics: Use computer science to analyze biological data.
- Cell biologist: Study the structure and function of cells.
- Developmental biologist: Study the development of organisms from conception to adulthood.
- Ecologist: Study the interactions between organisms and their environment.
- Evolutionary biologist: Study the evolution of organisms over time.
- Geneticist: Study the structure and function of genes.
- Immunologist: Study the immune system and its role in defending the body from infection.
- Microbiologist: Study microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Molecular biologist: Study the structure and function of molecules in living organisms.
- Neuroscientist: Study the nervous system and its role in behavior and cognition.
- Pharmacologist: Study the effects of drugs on living organisms.
- Physiologist: Study the function of organs and systems in living organisms.
- Plant biologist: Study the structure and function of plants.
- Zoologist: Study the structure and function of animals.
Education
- Biology teacher: Teach biology to students in middle school, high school, or college.
- Science writer: Write about science for newspapers, magazines, and other media outlets.
- Science communicator: Develop and deliver science education programs for the public.
Other
- Biomedical engineer: Use engineering principles to develop medical devices and treatments.
- Clinical research associate: Manage clinical trials of new drugs and treatments.
- Environmental consultant: Help businesses and organizations comply with environmental regulations.
- Forensic scientist: Use biology to solve crimes.
- Patent attorney: Help companies protect their intellectual property in the field of biology.
- Regulatory affairs specialist: Help companies comply with government regulations related to the development and marketing of biological products.
- Science policy analyst: Develop and analyze policies related to science and technology.
- Scientific librarian: Manage and organize scientific information.
- Technical writer: Write technical documents, such as user manuals and scientific reports.
With a degree in biology, you will be qualified for a wide range of jobs in both the public and private sectors. Some of the most common job titles for people with biology degrees include:
- Research scientist
- Laboratory technician
- Science teacher
- Science writer
- Environmental consultant
- Forensic scientist
- Patent attorney
- Regulatory affairs specialist
- Science policy analyst
- Scientific librarian
- Technical writer
The median annual salary for biologists is $68,360. However, salaries can vary depending on your experience, education, and location.
There are many factors to consider when choosing a career in biology. Some of the most important factors include:
- Your interests: What do you enjoy learning about? What do you find fascinating?
- Your skills: What are you good at? What do you enjoy doing?
- Your values: What is important to you in a career? Do you want to make a difference in the world? Do you want to work in a team environment?
- Your career goals: What do you want to achieve in your career? Do you want to be a researcher? A teacher? A science writer?
Once you have considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your options. There are a number of resources available to help you find the right career for you. Your college career services office can provide you with information about different careers in biology. You can also talk to your professors and mentors for advice.
Here are a few tips to help you succeed in a career in biology:
- Get a good education. A strong foundation in biology will give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in your career.
- Get involved in research. Research experience will give you valuable hands-on experience and help you develop your critical thinking skills.
- Network. Attend conferences and meet with other biologists. Networking will help you learn about different career opportunities and make connections that can help you advance your career.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest research. Biology is a constantly evolving field. It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest research in order to be successful in your career.
- Be passionate about your work. If you are passionate about biology, you will be more likely to succeed in your career.
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when choosing a career in biology:
- Don’t choose a career just because you think it will make you a lot of money. Money is important, but it should not be the only factor you consider when choosing a career.
- Don’t choose a career just because your parents or friends want you to. Choose a career that is right for you.
- Don’t be afraid to change your mind. It is okay to change your mind about your career path. If you find that you are not happy in your current career, don’t be afraid to explore other options.
A degree in biology can open up a world of career opportunities. With a strong foundation in biology, you will be qualified for a wide range of jobs in both the public and private sectors. By following the tips in this article, you can increase your chances of success in a career in biology.
Table 1: Median Annual Salaries for Biologists
Job Title | Median Annual Salary |
---|---|
Research scientist | $91,930 |
Laboratory technician | $41,260 |
Science teacher | $55,970 |
Science writer | $60,890 |
Environmental consultant | $72,370 |
Forensic scientist | $58,750 |
Patent attorney | $126,930 |
Regulatory affairs specialist | $91,320 |
Science policy analyst | $86,040 |
Scientific librarian | $63,650 |
Technical writer | $74,830 |
Table 2: Job Outlook for Biologists
Job Title | Projected Percent Change in Employment, 2020-2030 |
---|---|
Research scientist | 7% |
Laboratory technician | 7% |
Science teacher | 4% |
Science writer | 9% |
Environmental consultant | 8% |
Forensic scientist | 14% |
Patent attorney | 5% |
Regulatory affairs specialist | 7% |
Science policy analyst | 11% |
Scientific librarian | 3% |
Technical writer | 8% |
Table 3: Education Requirements for Biologists
Job Title | Required Education |
---|---|
Research scientist | Doctorate (Ph.D.) |
Laboratory technician | Bachelor’s degree |
Science teacher | Bachelor’s degree with teaching certification |
Science writer | Bachelor’s degree in science, journalism, or communications |
Environmental consultant | Bachelor’s or master’s degree in environmental science or a related field |
Forensic scientist | Bachelor’s degree in forensic science or a related field |
Patent attorney | Juris doctorate (J.D.) with specialization in intellectual property law |
Regulatory affairs specialist | Bachelor’s or master’s degree in regulatory affairs or a related field |
Science policy analyst | Master’s or doctorate (Ph.D.) in public policy or a related field |
Scientific librarian | Master’s degree in library science or a related field |
Technical writer | Bachelor’s degree in technical writing or a related field |
Table 4: Skills and Abilities Required for Biologists
Skill or Ability | Description |
---|---|
Analytical skills | The ability to think critically and solve problems. |
Communication skills | The ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. |
Computer skills | The ability to use computers and software to manage data, analyze results, and prepare reports. |
Laboratory skills | The ability to work in a laboratory setting and use laboratory equipment. |
Math skills | The ability to use math to solve problems and analyze data. |
Research skills | The ability to conduct research and critically evaluate scientific literature. |
Teamwork skills | The ability to work effectively in a team environment. |