Lifelong Careers
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Science & Research

Zoologist

Family · Science & ResearchEntry level · Degree (postgraduate preferred)
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Zoologists work in either research or teaching. Zoologists study anatomy, phys- iology, classification, distribution, behaviour and environment of all kinds of animals, from insects to elephants. When working in zoos, they usually coordinate conservation breeding programmes, collection planning and general conservation strategies. A very small number find jobs in industry, mainly in pharmaceutical and animal foodstuff companies. Research zoologists will probably work in one of the many government-backed centres on a variety of projects, including animal behaviour, pest control and the population ecology of birds.

06 · Qualifications & training you need

A degree in zoology, available at some universities, is needed for a career as a zoologist. Postgraduate training in specialisations such as entomology or nematology is also available.

Where people train for this

03 · Education pathway

Bachelor-level science for entry roles; postgraduate study commonly required for research-intensive roles.

09 · Core skills

research methodsdata analysisscientific reasoningexperimentationtechnical communication

09 · Core competencies

problem solvingcommunicationprofessional judgementcollaborationdigital literacyethical practice
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