Biologists study plants, animals, and the environments they live in.
Few fields are as broad as biology. You can study the characteristics of a single cell all the way to an entire ecosystem. Few fields also hold so much promise as biology. Future biologists may be able to find the cure for diseases such as Alzheimer's. Or, perhaps they may be able to help people with diabetes by raising cows that produce insulin. Yes, cows! Think this is far-fetched? Well, a long time ago people didn't think that mold could produce antibiotics. Now we know differently.
Biologists study the life processes, behaviors, diseases, and structure of life forms. Their studies range from large animals and plants to single cell organisms. Their findings help solve problems, such as plant diseases or possible extinction of some animals. They also research ways to solve problems in human health and disease.
Some biologists do basic research. This means they study the world to gain knowledge. Other biologists do applied research. They use knowledge gained from research to create new products or processes. For example, they use genetic engineering knowledge to create new types of corn that are less attractive to pests. Some biologists use complex lab instruments for their research.
Regardless of the topic they study, biologists have many tasks in common. They read articles and attend conferences to learn more about their research area. They determine research questions and design experiments to study those questions. Depending on the type of organism they study, biologists conduct experiments in a lab, forest, or other site. They may work with the organisms themselves, or have research assistants do much of the work for them. If they have assistants, scientists train them how to conduct the research and keep records.
Once an experiment is complete, biologists analyze the data. They may use a computer to analyze the information for them. Next, biologists interpret the results and write reports. They may present their findings at conferences.
Biologists often specialize in a subfield of biology. For example, biochemists investigate the chemical makeup and processes of living things. They study the chemical effects of food and drugs on such processes as growth and aging. Biophysicists study the electrical and mechanical energy properties of cells and organisms. Microbiologists study the growth, development, and characteristics of bacteria and other small organisms. There are many other subfields of biology.
Some biologists become teachers. Biologists with master's or doctoral degrees may teach at colleges or university. Once they complete a teacher certification program biologists can also teach in middle and high schools.