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Zoological scientist
Zoological scientists study animals, including evolution, physiology, reproduction, genetics, behaviour and ecology. They are involved in laboratory research and fieldwork. They can use their knowledge in areas such as conservation, agriculture and industry, for example, pharmaceuticals.
Also known as:
- Animal scientist
- Zoologist
Work activities
Research, often in specialist subjects, is an important area of work for zoological scientists. Specialist areas include genetics, cell biology, physiology, behaviour, nutrition and evolution. Zoological scientists can also specialise in a particular type of animal, such as mammals, amphibians and birds. Some zoological scientists focus on animal diseases. In conservation biology, zoological scientists protect endangered species. Animal species are becoming extinct every day, because of factors such as habitat destruction, the introduction of foreign species and human activity.
In fieldwork, zoological scientists record the number and types of different species in a particular area. Their findings help to build up a local, national and world picture of animal biodiversity, including how it is affected by factors such as climate change, pollution and increasing land use by humans. Conservation biology could involve breeding species in captivity, with the aim to re-introduce them into the wild to prevent their extinction.
Zoological scientists also work to improve the selection, breeding and nutrition of livestock. This includes research to improve animal feed, incubation, artificial insemination, housing, meat quality and parasite control. They can also use the modern techniques of genetic engineering to improve the characteristics of a farm animal species, such as its resistance to certain diseases.
In the study of animal behaviour, zoological scientists have developed manual and computerised recording systems to observe, monitor and record animal behaviour, such as their movement, relationships and the sounds they make. Their observations and findings contribute to an understanding of the requirements needed for captive animal populations. Also, they help to set and regulate welfare standards for livestock and laboratory animals.
In pharmaceutical companies, zoological scientists help to research, test and develop new drugs. This can involve breeding animals, rearing them under controlled conditions and testing the effects of drugs on them. Another specialist area is biocontrol. This is using organisms to tackle the pests and diseases that harm crops, reducing farmers’ need to use chemical products such as pesticides. Zoological scientists also work in museums, wildlife parks and nature reserves, and as teachers, lecturers and journalists.
Personal qualities and skills
To be a zoological scientist, you must have strong knowledge of animal biology. You’ll need knowledge of chemistry and an interest in conservation and environmental issues.
You’ll also need:
- A thorough, methodical and logical approach to research and experiment work.
- Strong observation skills.
- The ability to use maths and statistics.
- Patience to repeat experiments several times and for observing animals over long periods.
- Accuracy and attention to detail for setting up, monitoring and recording experiments.
- Creativity and imagination to solve problems.
- The ability to use a wide range of laboratory equipment and techniques.
- Computer skills for things like word processing, spreadsheets and presentation software.
- The ability to work on your own, for example, in fieldwork, as well as in a team with other scientists and technicians.
- Writing skills for reports, research papers and proposals.
- The ability to explain things clearly and concisely, especially to non-specialists.
Pay and opportunities
Salaries for zoological scientists vary with the industry, employer and level of responsibility. Zoological scientists can expect to earn £18,000 per year at the start of their career, rising to £48,000 with experience and extra responsibilities. Higher salaries are possible, depending on employer, role and responsibilities.
Zoological scientists usually work a 38-40-hour week, Monday to Friday. However, they might work long, unsocial hours, for example, during fieldwork, including early starts, late finishes and work at weekends.
Many zoological scientists work for research institutions, or in agriculture, industry or universities. There are opportunities for conservation, environmental and information work with government departments, wildlife trusts, nature reserves, zoological collections and safari parks. Some zoological scientists work as consultants, for example, giving advice to zoos and conservation bodies. Opportunities for zoological scientists occur in towns, cities and rural areas throughout the UK.
Where are vacancies advertised?
Vacancies are advertised in science magazines such as New Scientist (which also has job vacancies on its website), on specialist job boards, and in national newspapers.
Entry routes and training
To become a zoological scientist, you’ll need at least a relevant first (undergraduate) degree. Entrants often have postgraduate qualifications, such as an MSc or PhD. A postgraduate qualification will usually be essential for entry to a research post in higher education. There are specialist degree courses in zoology, animal biology and animal science. Entrants also have related first degrees, in subjects such as biology, applied biology, microbiology, ecology, genetics and biochemistry. Some universities offer degree courses with a foundation year. This is an extra year for students who don’t have the specified science A-levels for entry.
Competition for entry to this career is very strong, and many people with backgrounds in zoological science go into careers that aren’t directly linked to the subject.
The Field Studies Council provides a wide range of taxonomy courses, some of which allow you to earn hours or points towards continuing professional development courses. Depending on your area of work, you might have training on-the-job, for example, in laboratory procedures or specialist equipment.
In conservation, progression usually involves taking on more project management responsibility, including training others. University lecturers/researchers can be promoted to higher grades such as senior and principal lecturer. In industry, for example, pharmaceuticals, you would progress to a supervisory or management position. Experienced zoological scientists can act as consultants, for example, giving advice to zoos and conservation bodies.
Qualifications
For entry to a degree in zoology, the usual minimum requirement is:
- Two to three A-levels, including biology and at least one other science subject (some universities specify chemistry).
- GCSEs at grades 9-4 in your A-level subjects.
- A further two to three GCSEs at grades 9-4, including English and maths. You might also need chemistry if you don’t have this at A-level.
Adult opportunities
Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.
If you don’t have the qualifications needed to enter a degree course, you might be able to start one after completing an Access course, for example, Access to Science. You don’t usually need any qualifications to enter an Access course, although you should check this with the course provider. A foundation year before the start of a science degree is available at some universities and higher education colleges for students who don’t have the science A-levels usually needed for entry to the course. Some part-time zoology degree courses are available.
