Biological scientists study the life and behavior of various living organisms, with the ultimate goal of helping the collective scientific community improve its knowledge of the biological world. Biological scientists’ research finds a variety of applications, from helping endangered animal species survive more efficiently in their conditions, to improving our own lifestyles through the discoveries made in the course of a scientist’s research. Biological scientists can either work as part of scientific teams employed by organizations, or on their own accord.
Becoming a biological scientist requires the candidate to complete all the available formal levels of education related to their specific area of biology – this means that not only a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree are required, but the candidate needs to have completed a Doctorate as well. Furthermore, most biological scientists usually have long years of experience working in laboratories and various other research environments, as well as extensive knowledge of the various tools used in the course of their work. Biological scientists can usually learn a lot from their peers, unlike what is common for most other science-related occupations.
Biological scientists tend to be well-paid, with their salaries going between $50,000 and $70,000 annually. The median salary for 2009 was $63,000, and the prospects for career development are great – a biological scientist’s compensation is usually directly related to their motivation and the amount of work they dedicate to their research. Some self-employed biological scientists may find sudden success through valuable discoveries.