Tell me about it
Zoologists are scientists concerned with the study of animals, their anatomy, physiology, ecology, evolution and embryology. They work in many different roles. Environmental zoologists and conservationists, for example, are responsible for protecting, managing and enhancing the wildlife in a particular area. There may be opportunities to work in field surveying, conducting scientific surveys of natural habitats and identifying, recording and monitoring animal species, both in the UK and overseas.

Research zoologists work in some of the larger zoos. They seek to extend our knowledge of animals, including their behaviour, populations and genetics. In hospitals, medical zoologists help doctors to decide on the best form of treatment. As treatment progresses they monitor and evaluate its effectiveness. Zoologists can also work in research institutes, where they study problems related to old age, diet or the environment. They also carry out research on illnesses caused by human parasites.

Government departments such as the Department for Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), English Nature and the Forestry Commission employ zoologists to research illness and disease in humans and animals. In the food and drink industry, zoologists work on research, production, quality control and marketing. Part of their work involves the study of human and animal diets.

Zoologists working in the pharmaceuticals industry test the ingredients of drugs before manufacture, as well as checking production methods and monitoring the finished product to ensure that it meets quality and safety standards. They also work on the discovery, development and marketing of new products.

Entry level
While it is possible to enter at trainee or technician level with GCSEs/S grades or A levels/H grades, or equivalent qualifications, including biology, maths, science and English, most zoologists actually have degrees. Relevant subjects include zoology and animal biology, and degrees are offered at universities throughout the UK. To study for a first degree, you would usually need a minimum of two A levels/three H grades, normally including biology and often chemistry, and three GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3) in other subjects, or equivalent.

For some jobs, particularly research posts in universities, a postgraduate qualification - either an MSc or PhD - is required. Entry to a postgraduate course is normally with a good first degree.

Making the grade
It is normal for zoologists in conservation and fieldwork to spend some time volunteering before taking up work, thereby becoming familiar with identification and conservation techniques. Employers may provide additional training.
Qualifications in identification that accredit existing skills are offered by the Natural History Museum. Assessment is by examination. The Field Studies Council offers a wide range of training programmes in biological recording skills.

Personal qualities
As a zoologist, you should have a genuine interest in animals but the ability to remain objective and unsentimental. You should be able to keep meticulous records of your research, have a logical mind and be able to convey complex technical information to people with little or no scientific knowledge.

Looking ahead
There is no established career structure for conservation and field research posts, and promotion prospects can be very limited. Career progression usually involves taking on increasing responsibility for planning and organising projects, and advising or managing others. Many jobs are offered on short-term contracts. In universities there may be promotion from researcher to lecturer, and then to higher grades like senior lecturer, professor or head of department.

In industry and medicine, there may be an established career structure, with experienced zoologists being promoted to more senior posts. It may also be possible to advance by moving to another company. Some zoologists move into writing or broadcasting. With a science-based degree, it may be possible to apply for a shortened medical degree to train as a doctor.

Competition for jobs, especially in conservation and fieldwork, can be intense. Successful applicants are often those who have made useful contacts through spending time as volunteers for relevant organisations.

Alternative suggestions
Other possibilities might include agricultural scientist, biochemist, biologist, doctor, marine biologist, oceanographer, pharmacologist or veterinary surgeon.

Take-home pay
Starting salaries are around £15,000 a year. With more experience, this could rise to between £25,000 and £30,000. Some senior zoologists earn up to £45,000 a year.

Effects
Hours vary from post to post. Zoologists working in research, industry and higher education will usually work normal daytime hours, from Monday to Friday. Additional hours may be required at busy times. Those working in conservation may be required to host open days for the public or work with volunteers at weekends and bank holidays. Attendance at evening meetings may also be required. Zoologists in field research accept that they must work when conditions are appropriate - thus night work is required to study the habits of nocturnal animals.

Sources of information
Natural History Museum: www.nhm.ac.uk
Field Studies Council: www.field-studies-council.org
Institute of Zoology: www.zoo.cam.ac.uk/ioz/
Zoological Society of London: www.zsl.org
Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry: www.abpi.org.uk
British Trust for Conservation Volunteers: www.btcv.org
English Nature: www.english-nature.org.uk
Institute of Food Science & Technology: www.ifst.org.uk and www.foodtechcareers.org

CRCI: TD