Biologist
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours but may work extra hours
- Usually work in offices and laboratories, and may travel locally or nationally
- Need to be methodical, accurate and identify and solve problems
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Study plant and animal life
- Collect environmental samples and data
- Sort plants and animals into ecosystem groups
- Share environmental discoveries
- Research ecosystem processes with other teams
- Supervise scientists and technical staff
- Write proposals
Outlook
Biologists contribute to New Zealand’s understanding of ecosystems, species, health, agriculture and environmental change. The outlook is supported by long-term needs in conservation, biosecurity, climate adaptation, freshwater management and biological research, although roles can be competitive and often project-funded. Globally, biology is becoming more connected with data science, genomics and sustainability, creating broader ways to study and protect living systems.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Strong understanding of living organisms, ecosystems and scientific methods
- Good observation, fieldwork or laboratory skills
- Ability to collect, analyse and explain biological data
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Respect for environmental, cultural and ethical responsibilities
- Clear writing and communication for reports, research and public information
AUT programmes
- Biological Science Major - Bachelor of Science
- Marine Science Major - Bachelor of Science
- Environmental Science Major - Bachelor of Science
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
Further study options
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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.