Marine biologist
Study ocean animals, plants and ecosystems to increase our knowledge and understanding of the environment.
Also known as: microbiologist, marine mammalogist, marine ecologist, ichthyologist, fishery biologist, biological technician
About the job
A day in the life – Marine biologist
What it's like
Looking for a career that'll take you to the seaside? As a marine biologist, you'll study ocean animals, plants and ecosystems. Your work will help humans increase our knowledge and understanding of the environment, genetics and animal or plant biology.
This role provides a lot of variety! You could choose to study fish, mammals, birds, reptiles or invertebrates – they all rely on the ocean to survive. Or, you may focus on the ocean's plants, algae, fungi or coral. You'll develop strategies to protect marine biodiversity.
Sometimes, marine biologists work in renewable energy. For example, you might study the ocean near an offshore wind project to make sure it minimises its ecological risk.
Your tasks might include:
working on research projects to observe and better understand ocean animals, plants and ecosystems
protecting and conserving sea life
developing and managing marine resources
supporting the conservation and sustainable management of fish stocks or the marine environment
writing up and publishing the findings from your research
presenting your findings at conferences or teaching at a university
Green job
In this job, you'll do work that helps the environment. Find out more about green jobs.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Not Just Lab Coats – explore a range of careers across science, manufacturing and technology
Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) – check out the country's premier independent marine science organisation
Marine Biological Association – discover this organisation at the forefront of marine science research, education and conservation
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Select qualification level(s)
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Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- understanding
- analysing
- taking initiative
- sorting
- attention to detail
- researching
- observation
- problem solving
- innovative
- working with technology
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Biology
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Chemistry
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Environmental Science
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Human Biology
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Maths (Mathematics)
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Science in the Environment
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Skills for Work: Laboratory Science
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Skills for Work: Rural Skills
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Scientific Technologies (Laboratory Skills)
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Applications of Mathematics
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
Entry to this job is extremely competitive. The majority of marine biologists in Scotland have a degree.
University
You’ll need a degree or postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject, such as:
Marine Biology
Marine and Freshwater Biology
Marine Science
Oceanography
Want to keep your career options open? You could choose a more general science-based degree then do a master's later – this'll help you avoid specialising too early. Some general science-based degrees include:
Biology
Biological Science
Conservation
Ecology
Environmental Sciences
Use the My World of Work course search to find degrees.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Applied Science
Bioscience
Applied Sciences
Environmental Management
Wildlife and Conservation Management
Trainee roles
It's rare that someone becomes a marine biologist with no degree. Although, it's possible to get into this career without a degree if you have a background as a seagoing technician or scientific support role.
Volunteering in a relevant role can help you build the skills and experience you’ll need to become a marine biologist. Search for opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
Some jobs will require that you're a trained diver. You'll need to pass strict medical tests before doing any diving training. There'll also be regular medical tests once qualified.
Things you should know
Meet Tom, a marine biologist
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