What career do you aspire to have in the future? This is a common question that students often hear from adults as they grow older and progress through their education. It’s never too early to start thinking about and planning for your future.

If you enjoy spending a significant amount of time near or in the ocean, you might consider becoming a professional surfer or a lifeguard. Alternatively, if you have a passion for science, you could explore the field of marine biology!

Marine biologists are scientists who specialize in studying the plants and animals that inhabit the ocean.

If you’ve seen a globe before, you’ll notice that a large portion of it is covered in blue. Do you know why? Approximately 70% of the Earth’s surface is made up of oceans! When you consider the countless species of fish, aquatic mammals, and plants that exist in the world’s oceans, you begin to grasp the vastness of the field of marine biology.

However, it is important to note that there are very few individuals in the world who hold the job title “marine biologist.” The term “marine biologist” is too broad, as most professionals work in specialized areas within the field of marine biology.

Instead of being a marine biologist, a person might specialize as a marine mammologist, biological technician, marine conservationist, ichthyologist, or even a systems analyst, mathematician, economist, or sociologist. There are even professionals who focus solely on the chemical and physical aspects of oceans, such as hydrologists and oceanographers.

Marine biologists can choose to specialize in various aspects of oceanography and the life it sustains. In addition to studying aquatic plants and animals, they might also investigate ocean currents, the impact of human behavior on the oceans, or the potential of ocean environments to produce medicinal plants and animals.

Some individuals are drawn to marine biology because they are interested in working with marine mammals like dolphins and whales. However, marine biologists rarely have the opportunity to interact with these animals in the wild. If your goal is to train dolphins, work with whales, or care for other marine animals in captivity, you might want to consider a career as a zookeeper or pursue a related field in zoology, and seek employment at an aquarium or zoo.

Marine biologists typically divide their time between fieldwork and laboratory work. Conducting research in the field, whether it be in the ocean, on a beach, or in a brackish estuary, is one of the perks of being a marine biologist. Analyzing collected data and determining the next steps for a study are usually done in a laboratory setting.

If you have an interest in marine biology, it is crucial to focus on science and mathematics during your academic journey. Seek out volunteer opportunities that allow you to work with plants and animals in a scientific context. Finally, pursue higher education at a college or university that offers marine research facilities.

Give It a Try

Are you eager to learn more about marine biology? Enlist the help of a friend or family member to explore the following activities:

Exploring the Oceans as a Marine Biologist

As a marine biologist, your office is the vast and magnificent oceans of the world. No other job can offer such breathtaking views! Take an atlas and delve into the exploration of all the oceans. Create a list to identify the various oceans you come across. Which oceans captivate your curiosity the most? And why do they allure you?

Do you live near the ocean? Regardless of your location, take a moment to examine a map of your country. Mark all the major cities that are situated on or close to an ocean. Choose a couple of these cities to study in detail. Find out if they offer any educational institutions with marine biology programs. Are there any renowned areas within these cities known for their exceptional work in marine biology? Could one of these cities potentially be a desirable place for you to work in the future? Explain your reasoning.

Are you interested in becoming a marine biologist? Jot down a list of five things you would enjoy and five things you would dislike about pursuing a career in marine biology. Which list do you find more convincing? If a career as a marine biologist doesn’t appeal to you, are there any other scientific fields related to the ocean that pique your interest? It’s never too early to start contemplating what you aspire to be when you grow up!

Wonder Sources

• http://www.wisegeek.org/what-does-a-marine-biologist-do.htm
• http://marinelife.about.com/od/marinecareers/p/Marine-Biologist.htm
• https://swfsc.noaa.gov/textblock.aspx?id=54

FAQ

1. What does a marine biologist do?

A marine biologist is a scientist who studies marine life and the ecosystems of the ocean. They may conduct research to understand the behavior, physiology, and interactions of marine organisms. They also study how human activities impact marine ecosystems and work towards conservation and sustainability. Marine biologists may collect samples, analyze data, and use various tools and technologies to study marine life. They may also work in public education and outreach, raising awareness about marine conservation issues.

2. How do marine biologists study marine life?

Marine biologists use various methods to study marine life. They may conduct field research by observing organisms in their natural habitats, such as scuba diving to study coral reefs or using boats to track marine mammals. They may also collect samples, such as water, sediment, or tissue samples, to analyze in the laboratory. Marine biologists may use specialized equipment like underwater cameras, sonar systems, or DNA sequencing technology to gather data about marine organisms. They may also collaborate with other scientists and use computer models to study complex marine ecosystems.

3. What are the career opportunities for marine biologists?

There are diverse career opportunities for marine biologists. They can work in research institutions, universities, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. Some marine biologists focus on academic research, publishing scientific papers and teaching at universities. Others work in conservation organizations, developing and implementing strategies to protect marine ecosystems and endangered species. Marine biologists may also work in aquariums, zoos, or marine parks, caring for marine animals and educating the public. Some marine biologists even work in the private sector, such as consulting firms or pharmaceutical companies, conducting research related to marine organisms.

4. What skills are important for a marine biologist?

Several skills are important for a marine biologist. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are necessary for conducting research and analyzing data. Good communication skills are important for presenting research findings and collaborating with other scientists. Fieldwork often requires physical stamina and the ability to work in challenging environments. Attention to detail and patience are crucial when collecting and analyzing samples. Knowledge of statistics and computer programming can also be beneficial for data analysis. Additionally, a passion for marine life, curiosity, and a desire to contribute to the conservation of marine ecosystems are important qualities for a marine biologist.

5. How can someone become a marine biologist?

To become a marine biologist, one typically needs to earn a bachelor’s degree in marine biology or a related field such as biology, zoology, or oceanography. Some positions may require a master’s or a Ph.D. degree, especially for research or academic careers. It is important to gain practical experience through internships or research assistantships during undergraduate or graduate studies. Building a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and mathematics is essential. Developing scuba diving skills and obtaining certifications can also be beneficial. Networking with professionals in the field and joining relevant scientific societies can provide valuable opportunities for career development in marine biology.