Learning how things live, function and die has been a chief curiosity of humans since the dawn of time. Archaeological evidence shows that for centuries upon centuries man has strove to understood planets, animals and the world in order to survive and flourish. Leonardo da Vinci was enthralled by biology and as he became successful as an artist, he was given permission to dissect human corpses in Florence.

Biology combines huge and diverse subjects such as biotechnology, ecology, anatomy, genetics, molecular biology and biomedical science; a common concern is the structure, function and behaviour of organisms. Examining these areas usually calls for a further investigation of such functions as reproduction, growth, and development.

For people of an inquisitive nature, who possess a fascination with the living world around them, a college course in biology is the natural choice.

Education
Students interested in taking a course in biology, or a related science subject, are spoilt for choice. You can take biology subjects as part of a general Science degree and other options include degree programmes in Biological and Chemical Sciences, Applied Biosciences, Biomedical Science, Biotechnology and Biomedical Health and Life Sciences. There are also higher certificate options available; including courses in Science (Applied Biology), Biomedical Science, Biotechnology, Industrial Biotechnology, Applied Biosciences and Applied Biology & Biopharmaceutical Science.

Subjects you will encounter on a dedicated Biology course might include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Statistics, Biochemistry, Immunology, Ecology and Environmental Studies. Other related courses will have most of these plus some other specialist subjects – e.g. If you decide to take Biotechnology degree you will encounter subjects such as Bioinformatics, Proteomics, Gene Cloning, Animal and Plant Cell Culturing and Bioprocess Engineering.

Students interested in the biological sciences might also consider courses in Environmental Science, Nutrition or Bioprocess Engineering.

Options after Qualification
Due to the diverse range of biological applications in modern society, graduates often seek employment in diverse areas. As well as this, a large number of graduates find work in areas unrelated to biology as the analytical and research skills honed in the duration of the degree course are often seen as attractive qualities in an employee.

Many larger companies take on graduates into their own professional training schemes and provide on-the-job training, while many biology and general science graduates go on to study or research at postgraduate level in many different biology related subjects.

The Work
Professional biologists can be involved in developing and testing new products. Research scientists in biology study topics such as disease, reproduction, growth and development, and microorganisms. Their findings contribute to the existing body of scientific knowledge and can help develop new products, fight diseases and publicise their findings.

Entry-level jobs in biological sciences and similar areas are often lab technician positions. Lab techs assist scientists by setting up equipment, carrying out experiments and reporting on their findings. In a medical laboratory, for example, they could be involved in the examination of body fluids, tissues and cells, analysing the chemical content of fluids or matching blood for transfusions. As you gain experience and knowledge you can then move on to become a fully-fledged biologist.

Biologists work in a team with other scientists and technicians. They design and conduct experiments, make observations, and write up the work in reports and scientific papers. They will often supervise the work of support staff and carry out administrative work. Biologists working in universities or teaching hospitals are usually also involved in teaching and supervising students.

Increasingly, scientists are working for small or medium-sized companies as larger companies outsource work to specialist companies that may have links with research programmes in higher education institutes.

Personal Qualities & Work Environment
An interest in science and maths is arguably the most important characteristic for any potential workers. An analytical manner and inquiring mind are also fundamental aspects of any scientist or mathematician.

Biologists generally work in a laboratory setting, where white coats and protective goggles are the norm. There can sometimes be travel involved including fieldwork and sharing findings with others e.g. giving presentations and attending conferences. 

The Money
Generally speaking science graduates can start off on around €25,000, with salaries rising over time and with experience. Senior biologists and other can potentially earn towards €80,000 or more a year.

Jargon
Photosynthesis: the synthesis of complex organic materials, using sunlight as the main source of energy
Cloning: making an identical copy
Immunology: the branch of biomedical science that covers the study of the immune system of all organisms
Proteomics: the study of proteins, particularly their structures and functions.

Job Titles
Biologist
Research Scientist
Microbiologist
Lab Technician
Biotechnologist
Biochemist
Biomedical Expert

Further Resources
Society for General Microbiology
Web: www.sgm.ac.uk

Department of Microbiology
NUI Galway
Galway
Phone: 091 492 294
Web: www.nuigalway.ie/microbiology/
Email: caroline.oconnell@nuigalway.ie

Institute of Biology Ireland,
NUI Maynooth, Maynooth, Co. Kildare
Phone: 01 708 3843
Web: www.biology.nuim.ie/IBI/
Email: ibi@may.ie

Biotechnology Ireland,
Enterprise Ireland Biotechnology Directorate, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.
Phone: 01 837 0177
Web: www.biotechnologyireland.com
Email: editor@biotechnologyireland.com

Biology Browser
Web: www.biologybrowser.org

Biology.ie (biology site for the Irish public)
Web: www.biology.ie