Ecologist Career Description
Ecologists can be described as environmental biologists who study the interactions between organisms and their environment and between organisms themselves.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Ecologists undertake environmental studies where they investigate the influence that humans have on the natural environment. For example, they look at the impact of housing, recreational facilities and farming methods on the environment. Ecologists try to rectify imbalances caused to the environment by human beings. Ecologists may also be involved with conservation programmes and providing scientific expertise in support of management decisions. In all the above, intelligent interpretation and application of biological principles are required.
Ecologists work both indoors and outdoors where it is often necessary for them to collect material that may help them to solve ecological problems. They also spend time in the laboratory analysing and interpreting data. This data is then used to improve our understanding of ecosystems.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Because of the diverse, and often demanding circumstances in which ecologists must work, it is important that they are adaptable. Ecologists should have a keen sense of observation and a good understanding of nature. An enquiring mind, the ability to analyse data and good communication skills are also important.
Where can I work?
Ecologists can be of service in a wide variety of fields (for example agriculture, forestry, nature conservation, pollution control, regional development and environmental education). One may be employed by the Department of
Agriculture and the various Agricultural Research Institutes, the Department of Environmental Affairs, the provincial departments of Nature Conservation and the National Parks Board. Private organisations, with a special interest in nature conservation may also employ ecologists.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Ecologists with the necessary experience and who are professionally registered can practise as private consultants.
|
