Zoologist



A career in Zoology

Taken from prospects 2021

Working as a zoologist you could be based indoors in a lab, outdoors in the field, or even in remote overseas locations

A zoologist studies animals and their behaviour - including the evolution, anatomy, physiology, behaviour, distribution and classification of animals. Zoologists study species and populations of animals and work with animals out in the field, in captivity or in a laboratory.

As a zoologist, you can specialise in a particular area. You can work with reptiles and amphibians (herpetologist), mammals (mammologist), birds (ornithologist), fossil remains (paleozoologist) or parasites (parasitologist).

Job titles vary greatly and may include zoological field assistant, field biologist, wildlife biologist, conservation biologist or field assistant.


Types of work


You can work in a range of areas, including:

  • conservation of endangered species and habitats

  • animal education and welfare

  • controlling pests and diseases

  • drug development and testing

  • improving livestock and crops in agriculture

  • teaching and research.

Qualifications

You'll usually need a degree in a relevant scientific subject like zoology, biology, marine biology or environmental biology.

Some employers look for candidates who have relevant postgraduate qualifications (such as an MSc or PhD), particularly for work that requires specialist knowledge. For research or teaching posts in higher education, you will normally need a PhD.


Zoology is a popular area and competition for roles is often high, so having relevant work experience is essential.

Any training or experience using a piece of software or equipment that is relevant to the role could help you to stand out. The Field Studies Council (FSC) offers some training courses.

University

Career Videos

BSc Zoology at the University of Exeter

Why study Zoology?

BSc (Hons) Zoology

Study Zoology in Liverpool