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Biological scientists examine and investigate the morphology, structure, and physical characteristics of living organisms, including their inter-relationships, environments and diseases.

Main tasks

  • Monitors the distribution, presence and behaviour of plants, animals and aquatic life, and performs other scientific tasks related to conservation not performed by Job holders in MINOR GROUP 215: Conservation and Environment Professionals.
  • Advises farmers, medical staff and others, on the nature of field crops, livestock and produce and on the treatment and prevention of disease.
  • Observes the structure of communities of organisms in the laboratory and in their natural environment.
  • Researches the effects of internal and external environmental factors on the life processes and other functions of living organisms.
  • Studies the physical form, structure, composition and function of living organisms.

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Salary and earnings

Potential earnings

£47,094.73

Average earnings

£27,841.39

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Skills & knowledge

The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Active Learning

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Writing

Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Biology

Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Chemistry

Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

Law and Government

Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.

Computers and Electronics

Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

What course level do I need to study?

The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.

Educational requirements: Honours, Bachelor's degree

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Level of study Percentage achieved
Level 0 1%
Level 1 2%
Level 2 3%
Level 3 11%
Level 4-5 (Higher Education) 7%
Level 6 (Bachelors) 37%
Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) 21%
Level 8 (Doctorate) 17%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.