Biologists
Research or study basic principles of plant and animal life, such as origin, relationship, development, anatomy, and functions.
Common Job Titles
- Biologist
- Research Biologist
- Research Scientist
- Scientist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeAnalyze biological data and experimental results using statistical software and computational tools to identify patterns in plant and animal life processes.Advanced
- KnowledgeDesign experimental protocols and research methodologies to investigate origin, relationships, development, anatomy, and functions of organisms independently.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize interdisciplinary knowledge from biology, chemistry, and environmental science to develop comprehensive theories about plant and animal life principles.Advanced
- KnowledgeCompose scientific research papers and technical reports documenting experimental methods, findings, and implications for peer review and publication.Advanced
- KnowledgeEvaluate research findings for scientific validity and compliance with regulatory standards in laboratory and field settings, integrating knowledge of biology, chemistry, and mathematics.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate advanced laboratory equipment including microscopes, spectrophotometers, and DNA sequencers following established protocols to collect precise biological measurements.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform specimen collection and preparation techniques in field and laboratory environments using sterile procedures and biosafety protocols.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate evidence-based scientific principles when communicating research findings to interdisciplinary teams, stakeholders, and the public.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply computational biology tools and programming languages including Python, R, and SQL to process and analyze large biological datasets.Developing
- MindsetEngage with collaborators and students to mentor, train, and share expertise in biological research methods and scientific inquiry.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Biologists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
59,710
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $54,500. 25th percentile: U.S. $67,950. 50th percentile: U.S. $93,330. 75th percentile: U.S. $121,350. 90th percentile: U.S. $159,780. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $54,500 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $159,780 |
| Workers on average earn | $100,440 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Biology4.8/5
- English Language4.2/5
- Mathematics4.0/5
- Chemistry3.5/5
- Law and Government3.5/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe Photoshop
- C++
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- Linux
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Oracle Java
- Perl
- Python
- R
- Structured query language SQL
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- UNIX
Technology Skills
- Agilent Technologies GeneSpring GX
- BLAT
- Basic Local Alignment Search Tool BLAST
- BioKin PlateKi
- Blue Tractor Software DNADynamo
- CUBIC
- Deoxyribonucleic acid DNA sequence analysis software
- EMBOSS
Tools & Equipment
- Agar plates
- Automated microscopes
- Automatic pipetters
- Benchtop centrifuges
- Benchtop lyophilizers
- Bioreactors
- Biosafety cabinets
- Bunsen burners