Careers in the Biological Sciences

Biological sciences, the study of living organisms and their relationship to the
environment, provides a foundation for a variety of careers. Some scientists
conduct basic research to increase the knowledge of living organisms, while those
in applied research use this knowledge to develop new medicines, increase crop
yields and improve the environment. Work is generally performed in a laboratory or
outdoor field setting. Other biological science graduates work in management or
administration, planning programs for food and drug testing or managing a
botanical garden. Some work as consultants to business firms, sell chemicals or
laboratory instruments, or write for technical publications. 

While most graduates work in a related occupation and eventually obtain an
advanced degree, others choose another direction. Many careers do not require a
specific major but rather a wide range of demonstrated skills and
accomplishments. Regardless of your career choices, increase your marketability
to employers through internships, responsible work experience, good grades and
involvement in college activities. A bachelor's degree is sufficient for advanced
technician jobs in the medical field, lab/research assistant positions, or testing and
inspection jobs. An advanced degree is required for most other positions in the
scientific field.* Rutger's University Website

A Sample of Related Occupations

Agronomist
Biochemist
Biophysicist
Biostatistician
Biotechnologist
Botanist
Crop Physiologist
Dentist
Ecologist
Embryologist
Entomologist
Environ. Health
Educator
Environ. Impact Analyst
Fisheries Biologist
Flavor Chemist
Food & Drug Inspector
Forester
Geneticist
Horticulturist
Hospital Administrator
Industrial Hygienist
Laboratory Technician
Marine Biologist
Medical Doctor
Medical Illustrator
Medical Record
Technician
Medical Social
Worker
Medical Technician
Microbiologist
Mycologist
Natural Resources
Manager
Naturalist
Parasitologist
Patent Specialist
Pathologist
Pest Control Inspector
Pharmaceutical Sales
Rep.
Pharmacologist
Physical Therapist
Physician Assistant
Plant Geneticist
Plant Quarantine
Specialist
Public Health Assistant
Quality Control
Specialist
Research Assistant
Scientific Librarian
Technical Writer
Toxicologist
Veterinarian
Wildlife Biologist
Zoologist

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