Biologists study living organisms and biological systems to understand how they work and solve real-world problems. The work is research-driven, intellectually demanding, and requires a master's degree or higher. Here is what the job involves, what preparation looks like, and how to enter the field.
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Biologists conduct research on organisms, ecosystems, and biological processes. You'll spend time processing scientific information, making decisions about research direction, and solving complex problems in the lab or field. Much of your work involves using computers to analyze data, staying current with new research and methods, and estimating the characteristics of biological samples or phenomena. You'll also gather information from existing studies and collaborate with other scientists. The role blends hands-on experimentation with data analysis and continuous learning.
Core work activities
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Biologists earn a median of $98,920 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is modest. Employment is projected to grow 1 percent from 2024 to 2034, little or no change for all occupations, with about 4,800 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Plan to earn a master's degree or doctoral degree in biology or a related field. Your undergraduate years should build a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. During your studies, you'll take advanced courses in specialized areas of biology and gain lab experience through coursework and research projects. Many biologists pursue internships or research assistant positions while in school to develop practical skills. The path is extensive and requires strong academic preparation, but it opens doors to diverse research and applied roles.
Most biologists pursue either a master's degree or a doctoral degree, and the choice depends on your career goals and timeline. If you're weighing those paths, Pathly can map the biologist path that fits you and turn it into a step-by-step plan with your counselor.
You do not need a license to work as a biologist, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You're drawn to investigating how things work. You enjoy research, problem-solving, and deep learning. Strong writing and communication skills help you share findings and collaborate with other scientists.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).