Life Scientists examine the anatomy, physiology and biochemistry of humans, animals, plants and other living organisms to better understand how living organisms function and interact with each other and the environment in which they live.
Occupations in this field typically require a bachelor degree or higher qualification. In some instances relevant and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.
Tasks Include:
- designing and conducting experiments, making observations and measurements, researching information, analysing data, preparing or supervising the preparation of laboratory reports and scientific papers, presenting findings at scientific meetings and conferences, and supervising the work of staff
- studying the forms and structures of bodily organs and tissues by systematic observation, dissection and microscopic examination
- investigating the chemical structure and function of living cells and their isolated components, organs and tissues in humans, animals, plants, and micro-organisms
- examining micro-organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, yeast and their enzymes, and using the knowledge gained to create and develop new, and improve existing, products, materials and processes
- investigating the effects of environmental factors, such as rainfall, temperature, sunlight, soil, topography and disease, on plant growth
- planning and undertaking experiments to study, measure and understand marine animals and plants
- studying the growth and characteristics of micro-organisms, such as bacteria, algae and fungi, and the effects they have on plants, animals and humans to develop medical, veterinary, industrial, environmental and other practical applications
- investigating the interrelationships between animals in their natural surroundings, in captivity and in laboratories
Occupations:
- Life Scientist (General)
- Biochemist
- Biotechnologist
- Botanist
- Marine Biologist
- Microbiologist
- Zoologist
- Life Scientists nec
Life Scientist (General)
Alternative Title:
Studies the origin, anatomy, physiology, reproduction and behaviour of living organisms and the ways in which they interact with the environment in which they live.
Biochemist
Studies the biochemistry of living organisms and the molecular structure and function of related components.
Specialisations:
- Enzyme Chemist
- Protein Chemist
Biotechnologist
Studies the anatomy, physiology and characteristics of living organisms and isolated biological molecules, and develops new materials for applying to a range of purposes.
Specialisations:
- Cell Geneticist
- Molecular Biologist
- Molecular Geneticist
Botanist
Studies the anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and ecology of plants.
Specialisations:
- Plant Pathologist
- Plant Physiologist
- Plant Taxonomist
Marine Biologist
Studies the anatomy, physiology, functions, characteristics, behaviour and environments of all forms of life living in the sea and connected water bodies.
Microbiologist
Studies microscopic forms of life such as bacteria, viruses and protozoa.
Specialisation:
- Bacteriologist (Non-medical)
Zoologist
Studies the anatomy, physiology, characteristics, ecology, behaviour and environments of animals.
Specialisations:
- Entomologist
- Mammalogist
- Ornithologist
Life Scientists Nec
This occupation group covers Life Scientists not elsewhere classified.
Occupations in this group include:
- Anatomist
- Animal Behaviourist
- Neuroscientist
- Parasitologist
- Pharmacologist (Non-clinical)
- Physiologist
- Toxicologist
