Zoologist Career - Essay Example

Zoologist Career   Zoology in itself is a major branch of biology and hence is quite broad in coverage 2002). Zoology, microbiology and botany are quite similar as they are all biological sciences but each of them is concerned with a specific area of study; botany is concerned with plants while microbiology with micro-organisms. Zoology being the scientific study of the structure, behavior, evolution and function of animals can lead one to work in various institutions as a public health officer or in any other health profession (State University, 2002).

Zoologists by choice may work in industrial settings, museums, law firms, government institutions and even in the education sector (Oklahama State University, 2009). Other potential employers include cosmetic companies, agricultural departments, aquariums and pharmaceuticals. Typically, a zoologist may become an animal caretaker, environmental educator, maintenance technician, museum collections manager, laboratory technician and research technician among numerous other positions. With several options to choose from, one’s interest goes a long way in making the right choice once a person receives the necessary academic qualifications.

Although the duties performed by zoologist differ a lot, in many cases they engage in laboratory work and research (State University, 2002). Typically they may dissect animal specimens, prepare slides for observations and examine them under microscopes. In other words, zoologists engage in the study of both complex and simple processes in all areas related to the lives of animals. They may engage in the study of a single animal or could study the behavior of a group of animals like bees in a colony, bands of gorillas or flocks of birds.

While some zoologists observe and care for animals under controlled conditions, others do so in animals’ natural habitats. While others may work outdoors, some zoologists usually work indoors under clean, well equipped and lighted conditions. While the work can be quite flexible, in some cases working schedules are tight and one has to work round the clock. In order to pursue a career as a zoologist, one must have interest in biological sciences and in particular they must love to work with animals and high levels of commitment (Sea World Education, n.d). It is prudent to volunteer services to zoos and other zoology-related organizations as an intern.

This may involve working directly or indirectly with animals. Joining professional zoology organizations is also a great way to gain exposure in the field and practice of zoology. Like in numerous other occupations, it is easier and more profitable to get into the profession with adequate academic qualifications. With adequate knowledge and experience in the field, rising through the ranks is quite easy as it is with numerous other careers. One can however start as a novice or intern visiting parks and assisting those involved in zoology-related careers such as animal parks and aquariums with an aim of gaining valuable experience and practical knowledge.

According to research conducted by US State Universities (2002), the median annual salary for a zoologist trained to doctorate level amounts to 50,330 US Dollars with very good prospects for employment even for fresh graduates as demand for zoologists is continuously growing. Benefits such as retirement plans, insurance and vacations may always accompany monthly wages. Zoologists of all ranks generally earn almost the same wages as other biological scientists with quite a bit of variability – this depends on several factors including experience and education levels, employer, state and nature of work among other factors.

References Oklahama State University. What can I do with a degree in zoology? 2009. Retrieved 28th October, 2009 http://ascareers.okstate.edu/pdf/Zoology_wcyd.pdf Sea World Education. Department Guide to Zoology Park careers. n.d. Retrieved 28th October, 2009 http://www.seaworld.org/infobooks/zoocareers/home.html State University. Definition and Nature of the Work. 2002. Retrieved 28th October, 2009 http://careers.stateuniversity.com/pages/422/Zoologist.html