Ecologist

Job overview
Ecologists are basically environmental biologists, studying the pattern of relations of plants, animals and people to each other and to their surroundings.

What do people do in this occupation?
Ecologists investigate the influence that humans have on the natural environment.

For example, they look at the impact of housing, recreational facilities and farming methods on the environment.

They try to rectify imbalances caused by human activity.

They may also be involved with conservation programmes and providing scientific expertise in support of management decisions.

In all the above, intelligent interpretation and application of biological principles are required.

Ecologists work both in- and out-doors, for it is often necessary for them to collect material that may help them to solve ecological problems.

They also spend time in the laboratory analysing and interpreting data.

What kinds of people are suitable for this career?
Ecologists need to be adaptable because of the diverse and often demanding circumstances in which they work.

They should have a keen sense of observation, an enquiring mind, the ability to analyse data and a good understanding of nature.

What qualifications are needed?
A scientific background is essential, most appropriately a degree and postgraduate qualifications in biological sciences.