Zoologist

Zoology is the scientific study of animals and animal behaviour. Zoologists study how animals live and how they adapt to their environment. They are also concerned with conservation, with studying diseases in animals and with investigating methods of controlling vermin and pests.

Zoologists usually specialise in one aspect of their subject, such as ecology (the environment animals live in), ethology (animal behaviour) or ornithology (birds).

They carry out research, which may involve studying animals in their natural habitat (field research) or in captivity.

Many zoologists work in higher education, lecturing at universities and colleges and conducting research. Others are curators or directors in zoos, wildlife centres and safari parks. Some zoologists work for animal conservation organisations, where they may be involved in projects to release animals back into the wild. There are also opportunities to work in museums. Some zoologists work for pharmaceutical companies, carrying out research into drugs to control vermin and parasites.

Hours vary from post to post. Zoologists working in laboratory research and higher education usually have normal working hours. Zoologists in field research may have work schedules that fit in with the habits of the animals they are studying.

Salaries range from around £17,000 to £45,000 or more a year.

A zoologist should:

• have good problem-solving skills
• have a logical mind
• be able to keep meticulous records of research projects
• have good communication and IT skills
• be interested in biological science, conservation and environmental issues.

Competition for jobs can be intense. Successful applicants have often spent time as volunteers for relevant organisations, such as conservation charities or zoos.

Most zoologists have degrees. Relevant subjects include zoology, as a single subject or as part of a joint degree, animal behaviour, animal biology, animal science, animal physiology, biological science, marine zoology, parasitology and virology. Minimum entry requirements are usually five GCSEs (A*-C) and two A levels, including biology, and preferably a second science, particularly chemistry.

For many jobs, particularly research posts in universities, a postgraduate qualification is also required. Graduates intending to work in research usually study for a PhD, which involves a research project generally lasting around three years.

Some employers, particularly universities and the pharmaceutical industry, offer clear promotion paths. In other areas, such as conservation, promotion prospects can be limited. Conservation and fieldwork projects can involve working overseas. Self-employment is possible.

Further details