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Kelly
Student
Montgomery, New York
1
Question
Updated
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Is it difficult to find a job as a Marine Biologist?
I am a high school senior interested in pursuing a degree in Marine Biology as well as Environmental Science.
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1 answer
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
517
Answers
Ethiopia
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Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Finding a job as a marine biologist can be challenging because the field is competitive, but pursuing an undergraduate degree in Marine Biology or Environmental Science with a solid foundation, lab experience, and research opportunities, along with hands-on experience through volunteering, internships, summer programs, and undergraduate research, will strengthen your application. Having a solid understanding complemented by practical work can further enhance your competitiveness. Skills like SCUBA certification, GIS, programming, and scientific writing are highly valuable. Combining knowledge in marine biology and environmental science increases versatility, and being open to temporary or contract work early in your career is common.
Networking is also essential and can be developed by joining professional organizations, attending conferences, seminars, and workshops, and connecting with researchers and professionals online through platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or professional forums. Volunteering, internships, and summer programs offer natural opportunities to meet mentors and build professional relationships. Associations such as the Marine Conservation Society, the Society for Conservation Biology, or the Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography provide mentorship, learning opportunities, and access to internships or volunteer projects. Platforms like Zooniverse, NOAA citizen science programs, aquariums, marine labs, and local conservation projects offer excellent practical and lab experience. By building technical, field, research, and networking experience while in college, you can become competitive and well-prepared for a successful career in marine biology.
Networking is also essential and can be developed by joining professional organizations, attending conferences, seminars, and workshops, and connecting with researchers and professionals online through platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or professional forums. Volunteering, internships, and summer programs offer natural opportunities to meet mentors and build professional relationships. Associations such as the Marine Conservation Society, the Society for Conservation Biology, or the Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography provide mentorship, learning opportunities, and access to internships or volunteer projects. Platforms like Zooniverse, NOAA citizen science programs, aquariums, marine labs, and local conservation projects offer excellent practical and lab experience. By building technical, field, research, and networking experience while in college, you can become competitive and well-prepared for a successful career in marine biology.
Thank you so much for your detailed and very helpful response! I really appreciate you taking the time to answer my question.
Kelly
You're welcome!
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay