Marine biologist study a wide variety of aquatic organisms, from microscopic plankton to massive wells. Most marine biologist choose a specific field such as phycology, ichthyology, invertebrate zoology, marine mammalogy, marine ecology and more. Specialization in studying a particular species also is common. Employers for marine biologist can include zoological parks, aquariums, governmental agencies, laboratories, educational institutions, museums, publications, environmental advocacy.
What marine biologist do can vary widely based on whether they work primarily in research, academia, or the private sector. Nearly all marine biologist spend at least part of their time doing research in the field, working in environments ranging from marshes or wetlands to the ocean. They use equipment including boats, scuba gear, nets, traps, sonar, submarines, robotics, computers, and standard lab equipment.
Marine biologist involved in research write grant proposals to obtain funding, collect and analyze data from their studies, and publish papers for peer review in scientific journals. Travel is a standard component of researchers’ lives.
Some of the skills and competencies that are general skills that marine biologists need to be good at in their work include, Critical and analytical thinking, observational skills, physical and emotional stamina, and teamwork.
