Zoologist Career Description
Zoologists are scientists who are involved in the study of animals. Zoologists regard an animal as any kind of living creature that is not a plant, a fungus, a virus or a bacterium. Thus fishes, birds, mammals, insects, worms, rock lobsters, snails, starfish, sponges and jellyfish are all animals studied by zoologists.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Zoologists are biologists who study the basic aspects of animal life such as the structure, life processes, behavior, evolution, growth, development, habitat, conservation and classification of animals.
The work of a zoologist varies from pure research and laboratory work to fieldwork. Museum zoologists are involved in the preservation of valuable animal collections, research on the classification and distribution of animals and the construction of interpretative displays for the education of public visitors.
The zoologist uses a variety of modern research equipment. Data gathered from research are analyzed with the help of a computer.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need?
A zoologist must be a nature lover and have an interest in biology. An observant nature, patience and the ability to work accurately are necessary. Research is an important part of the zoologist's work.
Where can I work?
Possible employers are various national research institutes, the Oceanographic Research Institute and the National Collection for Insects; the departments of Agriculture, Water Affairs and Environment Affairs; museums; zoos; the National Parks Board, provincial nature conservation departments and private organisations such as game farms, pharmaceutical firms and others.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Zoologists with the necessary experience can act as private consultants.
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