Biologist Career Description
Biologists study and do research on the origin, relationships, development, derivation, anatomy, functions, heredity and other basic characteristics of plant, animal and microbial life.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Biologists study all aspects of living organisms, as well as the relationship between animals and plants and their environment. A biologist usually specializes in research or the development of a specific plant, animal or aspect of biology. The nature of the biologist's work includes different fields, namely:
Botany
A botanist is a scientist who studies the origin, development, physiology, reproduction, distribution, interdependence, classification and other aspects of plants. The botanist can specialize in plant morphology, plant ecology, economical botany and plant genetics, to name but a few.
Zoology
The zoologist studies several aspects of animals namely the origin, behavior and processes of life. Fields of specialization are morphology, taxonomy, genetics, zoogeography, embryology, behavioral studies and aquaculture.
Entomology
An entomologist studies all aspects in connection with insects. Extensive study and research can be done in the fields of taxonomy, behavior, insect pest control, etc.
Biochemistry
A biochemist examines the structure and functions of chemical compounds in all living organisms such as plants, animals, insects, viruses and microbes. The biochemist studies aspects such as metabolism, interrelationships between structures, etc.
Microbiology
As the name indicates, this is the study of micro-life. These micro-organisms play important roles in disease, food manufacturing (like cheese, beer, wine, salami) spoilage of perishable foods etc. Various specialties exist such as food microbiology, industrial microbiology, soil microbiology, plant pathology and medical microbiology.
Many microbiologists and biochemists are involved in research and development of new or improved products e.g. food, biotechnological products and pharmaceutical products.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need?
The prospective biologist must be very observant and interested in biological science. Patience, accuracy, determination and discipline as well as the ability to perform highly specialised research, are essential qualities.
Where can I work?
Biologists can be employed by several institutions such as the National Botanical Institute, government departments such as the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Health, universities and tertiary institutions, National Parks Board and game reserves and zoo's, Agricultural Research Council and private organisations.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Biologists have created several opportunities for self-employment during the last decade. Zoologists can start their own businesses by cultivating oysters, mussels, shrimps, etc. Zoologists can also start rehabilitation centres where wounded or poisoned animals can be rehabilitated.
Other self-employment opportunities for biologists include pollution laboratories, nurseries, pet shops, eco-tourism and environment impact centres.
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