Biologist

Career path and progression

With experience you could:

• become a commercial research project manager
• teach in schools, colleges or universities
• work in science licensing, patent and trademark rights
• advise organisations on policy as a freelance scientific consultant
• go into science communication, such as media and scientific journalism

If you work in academic research, you could also lead projects and become a senior research fellow or professor.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of biology
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• maths knowledge
• excellent written communication skills
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• persistence and determination
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Biology - Biologists study living organisms – from cells and DNA to whole ecosystems – so biology is the foundation of everything they do. Whether researching disease, protecting endangered species, or developing new medicines, they draw on knowledge of genetics, ecology, physiology, and evolution every day.
• Chemistry - Biologists need to understand the chemical processes that underpin life, such as how enzymes work, how cells produce energy, and how drugs interact with the body. Laboratory work often involves chemical techniques like chromatography, staining, and pH analysis.
• Mathematics - Biologists use statistics to design experiments, analyse data, and determine whether their results are significant. They also use mathematical models to study things like population growth, the spread of disease, or the impact of environmental changes.
• Environmental Science - Biologists who work in ecology or conservation study how organisms interact with their environments, including the effects of pollution, climate change, and habitat loss. Understanding environmental systems is essential for roles in wildlife protection and sustainable food production.

Also relevant

• Computer Science - Biologists increasingly use computational tools to analyse large datasets, such as genome sequences or ecological survey data. Bioinformatics – using programming and algorithms to interpret biological information – is one of the fastest-growing areas in modern biology.
• Physics - Biologists use physics-based techniques like microscopy, spectroscopy, and imaging to observe and measure biological structures. Understanding concepts like light, radiation, and fluid dynamics also helps in areas such as biomechanics and medical research.
• Geography - Biologists studying ecosystems, biodiversity, or conservation need to understand how landscapes, climates, and human land use shape where species live and how they survive. Fieldwork skills like mapping and data collection in the field are also shared between the two subjects.
• English Language - Biologists write detailed scientific reports, publish research papers, and communicate findings to both specialist and general audiences. Being able to present complex ideas clearly and persuasively is important, especially for those who move into science communication or policy work.