Description

The zoologist studies the habitats and characteristics of animals and wildlife. They observe behaviors, lifestyles. Their researches can be used for many different purposes: to preserve a species, or even to make advances in medicine or ecology.

Most zoologists often choose to specialize in studying one particular species. Insects, fish, mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles are some of the most common specialties, but many zoologists specialize even further and study only one type of animal within a species.

Zoologists work at the crossroads of other areas: agriculture, environment, aquaculture, ecology, anatomy, so they often work on cross-functional research teams with other scientists.

Schedule

Being a zoologist is full time work. They spend times in laboratories, but also in the field where they study animals in their habitat to collect data. You must be prepared to work in all types of climates and spend long hours outsides, sometimes in remote regions were comfort is primitive.

How to become a zoologist

A minimum of a bachelor's degree in ecology, zoology, or wildlife biology is required for most entry level zoologist positions.

You will also need to have a good scientific, mathematics and even computer science background.

Without a master degree,  your opportunities for advancement may be severely limited, and if you want to lead a research team or teach at the college level, then a Ph.D. is required. The Ph.D will give you a real world job experience which will help you prepare for your future career.

If you are curious, love animals and traveling, and feel like an adventurer, this career will suit you.

Photo Credit: Thinkstock

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