Marine Biologist
OFO No: 213107
Other names for Marine Biologist:
Aquatic Biologist
Fisheries Analyst
Fisheries Biologist
Fisheries Researcher
Fisheries Scientist
What is a Marine Biologist?
A Marine Biologist studies, observes, protects or manages ocean organisms, which range from microscopic life forms to large whales.
Marine Biologists spend a good amount of time researching a particular field of interest, whether in labs or in the sea itself – then specializing in it.
For example, a Marine Biologist can specialize in a particular species of jellyfish, the feeding behaviours of, the reproduction of or, the development of new techniques to research jellyfish.
A Marine Biologist usually has a scuba diving certificate in addition to a university degree. Many with advanced degrees in marine biology pursue professorships in conjunction with their research pursuits.
What does a Marine Biologist do?
- conducts observations and experiments
- identifies, classifies, and studies the different aspects of marine plant and animal species
- studies the relationship between organisms and their environment
- collects and analyses biological data
- keeps fish populations healthy in aquariums
- reviews and writes reports
- analyses behaviours
- cultivates, breeds and grows aquatic life
- teaches students
- attends conferences
Are you . . . ?
- in love with nature and the oceans?
- creative?
- curious?
- persistent?
- like to read?
- passionate about research?
- inquisitive?
How do I become a Marine Biologist?
You will first need a degree in Zoology – see under Zoologist on our website for study details.
Once you have completed your Zoology degree you can go on to do a post-graduate degree in Marine Biology:
- NELSON MANDELA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Ichthyologist … or … Environmental Engineer
Is becoming a Marine Biologist the right career choice for me?
