Marine Biologist Career Description
Marine biology is a diverse science concerned with all aspects of plant and animal life in the sea. Marine biologists study the distribution, abundance and life histories of animals and plants in the sea and the way in which these are governed by environmental factors. The eventual aim of marine biology is to understand marine life and to ensure the production of food from the sea at a sustained level.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
The work of technical marine biologists involve tasks such as collecting samples, developing, building or testing equipment and carrying
out analyses of raw data.
Marine biologists are also involved in the pollution-research field. This is very important because discharge of chemicals into the sea can cause wide-scale destruction of the near shore marine life.
Working conditions vary according to the nature of the work being done. Researchers can expect to spend time out in the field, be it at sea, on the beach or in an estuary. A great deal of marine biologists' time is also spent in the library, in front of a computer or in the laboratory.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need?
The work of marine biologists is demanding. Because much of their time is spent in the field collecting information, they must be willing to spend a great deal of their time away from home. Physical fitness is important as well as the ability to work accurately and get on well with others. Tenacity and an enquiring mind are also important qualities.
Where can I work?
Marine biologists are employed by institutions and organisations such as the Sea Fisheries Research Institute, some universities, commercial fishing companies, museums, the Oceanographic Research Institute and National Parks Boards to name but a few.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
The marine biologists can start their own businesses as consultants.
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