50 Biology and Life Sciences Jobs

I. Biological Sciences

1. Biologist

• What They Do: Study living organisms, their interactions, and ecosystems.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Biology; advanced positions typically require a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Universities, government agencies, environmental organizations, biotech companies.
• Average Salary: Approximately $80,000–$85,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Projected growth faster than average for many occupations.
  

2. Molecular Biologist

• What They Do: Investigate molecular components (DNA, RNA, proteins) and cellular mechanisms.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Molecular Biology or Biochemistry; advanced roles need a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, research institutions.
• Average Salary: Around $75,000–$80,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Growing demand in research and development.
  

3. Cell Biologist

• What They Do: Examine cell structures and functions to understand health and disease processes.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Cell Biology; often a Master’s or Ph.D. for research.
• Typical Workplaces: Universities, biomedical research labs, pharmaceutical companies.
• Average Salary: Approximately $75,000–$80,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Consistent demand in academic and private research.
  

4. Developmental Biologist

• What They Do: Research how organisms grow and develop, with a focus on cell differentiation and genetic control.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Developmental Biology or a related field; Ph.D. preferred for research positions.
• Typical Workplaces: Universities, research institutions, biotech companies.
• Average Salary: Around $75,000–$85,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Steady growth driven by advances in genetic research.
  

5. Evolutionary Biologist

• What They Do: Study species evolution, genetic variation, and adaptations over time.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Biology or Evolutionary Biology; Master’s/Ph.D. for research careers.
• Typical Workplaces: Academic institutions, museums, conservation organizations.
• Average Salary: Approximately $70,000–$80,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Opportunities in research, academia, and conservation.
  

II. Microbiology and Pathology

6. Microbiologist

• What They Do: Study microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites) and their roles in environments and diseases.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Microbiology; advanced positions require a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Clinical labs, pharmaceutical companies, government agencies.
• Average Salary: Around $70,000–$80,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Faster-than-average growth in research and healthcare.
  

7. Virologist

• What They Do: Focus on viruses, studying their structure, evolution, and how they cause disease.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Microbiology or Biology; Ph.D. usually required for research roles.
• Typical Workplaces: Research institutions, hospitals, biotech companies.
• Average Salary: Approximately $75,000–$85,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Growing need for viral research (especially highlighted by recent global health events).
  

8. Bacteriologist

• What They Do: Specialize in the study of bacteria, including their behavior, ecology, and roles in health.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Microbiology or Biology; higher-level research demands a Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Medical laboratories, food safety agencies, research institutions.
• Average Salary: Around $70,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Consistent growth in health and environmental sectors.
  

9. Parasitologist

• What They Do: Investigate parasites and their effects on hosts, contributing to disease prevention.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Biology or Microbiology; advanced research requires a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Universities, public health agencies, specialized research centers.
• Average Salary: Approximately $70,000–$75,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Niche field with steady research opportunities.
  

III. Genetics and Genomics

10. Geneticist

• What They Do: Study heredity and genes to understand genetic disorders and traits.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Genetics or Biology; Ph.D. is common for research positions.
• Typical Workplaces: Hospitals, research labs, academic institutions.
• Average Salary: Around $80,000–$90,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: High demand in medical research and biotechnology.
  

11. Genomics Researcher

• What They Do: Analyze genomes to develop insights into genetic functions and disease markers.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Genomics, Molecular Biology, or related field; advanced research requires a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Genomics labs, biotech startups, pharmaceutical companies.
• Average Salary: Approximately $80,000–$95,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Rapidly expanding with advancements in genomic technologies.
  

12. Clinical Geneticist

• What They Do: Diagnose and manage genetic disorders, often integrating patient care with research.
• Degree Needed: Medical degree (M.D.) with specialized training in genetics.
• Typical Workplaces: Hospitals, specialized clinics, genetic counseling centers.
• Average Salary: Often exceeding $200,000 per year due to clinical specialization.
• Job Outlook: High demand as personalized medicine advances.
  

IV. Biomedical and Medical Sciences

13. Biomedical Scientist

• What They Do: Conduct laboratory tests and research to support the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Biomedical Science; Master’s or certification preferred for advanced roles.
• Typical Workplaces: Hospitals, diagnostic labs, research institutions.
• Average Salary: Around $65,000–$75,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Steady growth in healthcare diagnostics and research.
  

14. Immunologist

• What They Do: Study the immune system to develop treatments for infections, allergies, and autoimmune diseases.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Biology or Immunology; typically a Ph.D. is required for research roles.
• Typical Workplaces: Biotech firms, research labs, hospitals.
• Average Salary: Approximately $80,000–$100,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Growing rapidly with advancements in immunotherapy.
  

15. Neurobiologist

• What They Do: Investigate the structure and function of the nervous system, including brain function and neurological disorders.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Neuroscience or Biology; advanced roles require a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Universities, research institutes, pharmaceutical companies.
• Average Salary: Roughly $80,000–$95,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: High demand as neurological diseases drive research funding.
  

16. Cancer Biologist / Oncologist*

• What They Do:
  • Cancer Biologist: Research the cellular and molecular mechanisms of cancer to develop treatments.
  • Oncologist: Clinically diagnose and treat cancer patients.
• Degree Needed:
  • Cancer Biologist: Bachelor’s in Biology/Biochemistry; Ph.D. for research roles.
  • Oncologist: Medical degree (M.D.) with oncology specialization.
• Typical Workplaces: Research centers, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies.
• Average Salary:
  • Cancer Biologist: Approximately $80,000–$100,000 per year.
  • Oncologist: Often over $300,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: High demand in both research and clinical settings.
  

17. Pathologist

• What They Do: Examine tissues, cells, and organs to diagnose diseases.
• Degree Needed: Medical degree (M.D.) with specialization in pathology.
• Typical Workplaces: Hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and universities.
• Average Salary: Typically over $250,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Strong demand, particularly in diagnostic medicine.
  

V. Toxicology and Pharmacology

18. Toxicologist

• What They Do: Assess the harmful effects of chemicals on living organisms and the environment.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Toxicology, Biology, or Chemistry; advanced roles require a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Regulatory agencies, pharmaceutical companies, environmental organizations.
• Average Salary: Around $70,000–$85,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Steady demand as safety and compliance standards increase.
  

19. Pharmacologist

• What They Do: Research drug interactions, mechanisms, and development of new therapies.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Pharmacology or a related field; often a Ph.D. is required for research positions.
• Typical Workplaces: Biotech firms, research centers, pharmaceutical companies.
• Average Salary: Approximately $80,000–$100,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Growing demand as new drug development accelerates.
  

20. Clinical Pharmacist

• What They Do: Dispense medications and provide patient counseling regarding drug therapies.
• Degree Needed: Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD).
• Typical Workplaces: Hospitals, retail pharmacies, and clinics.
• Average Salary: Typically $120,000–$140,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Very strong, with consistent demand in healthcare.
  

VI. Ecology, Conservation, and Environmental Biology

21. Ecologist

• What They Do: Study relationships between organisms and their environments, including impacts of human activity.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Ecology or Environmental Science; advanced roles often require a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Conservation organizations, governmental agencies, research institutions.
• Average Salary: Approximately $65,000–$75,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Growing demand with environmental sustainability focus.
  

22. Conservation Biologist

• What They Do: Focus on protecting endangered species and preserving natural habitats.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Conservation Biology or Environmental Science; Master’s preferred.
• Typical Workplaces: National parks, NGOs, government agencies, research institutions.
• Average Salary: Around $60,000–$70,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Steady, influenced by environmental policies and funding.
  

23. Wildlife Biologist

• What They Do: Research animal populations, behavior, and ecosystem impacts.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Wildlife Biology or Ecology; Master’s or Ph.D. for advanced positions.
• Typical Workplaces: Wildlife reserves, government agencies, conservation organizations.
• Average Salary: Approximately $60,000–$70,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Moderate growth as conservation efforts expand.
  

24. Marine Biologist

• What They Do: Study marine organisms and ecosystems with a focus on conservation and biodiversity.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Marine Biology or Oceanography; Master’s/Ph.D. for research.
• Typical Workplaces: Aquariums, research labs, marine conservation organizations.
• Average Salary: Around $65,000–$75,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Steady with seasonal and project-based opportunities.
  

25. Environmental Biologist

• What They Do: Analyze how human activities affect ecosystems and propose sustainable solutions.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Environmental Science or Biology; advanced roles may require a Master’s degree.
• Typical Workplaces: Environmental consulting firms, government agencies, NGOs.
• Average Salary: Approximately $65,000–$75,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Growing, particularly with increased focus on sustainability.
  

VII. Chemistry and Materials Science

26. Analytical Chemist

• What They Do: Use chemical analysis techniques to determine the composition of substances.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Chemistry; Master’s or Ph.D. preferred for advanced research.
• Typical Workplaces: Laboratories in manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, environmental agencies.
• Average Salary: Around $65,000–$75,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Steady, with strong demand in quality control and research.
  

27. Organic Chemist

• What They Do: Specialize in the study and synthesis of organic compounds.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Chemistry; often a Ph.D. for industrial research roles.
• Typical Workplaces: Pharmaceutical companies, chemical manufacturing, academic research labs.
• Average Salary: Approximately $70,000–$90,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Good, especially in R&D sectors.
  

28. Materials Scientist

• What They Do: Research and develop new materials with advanced properties for technology and manufacturing.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Materials Science or Engineering; Master’s/Ph.D. preferred for research roles.
• Typical Workplaces: Research labs, manufacturing companies, aerospace, and electronics industries.
• Average Salary: Around $75,000–$95,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Rapid growth driven by technological innovation.
  

VIII. Physics and Astronomy

29. Physicist

• What They Do: Study matter, energy, and the fundamental forces of nature through experiments and theory.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Physics; usually a Ph.D. for research roles.
• Typical Workplaces: Universities, national labs, private research institutions.
• Average Salary: Approximately $120,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Competitive but steady in research and development sectors.
  

30. Astrophysicist

• What They Do: Research the physics of the universe including stars, galaxies, and cosmology.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Astronomy or Physics; Ph.D. is essential for research roles.
• Typical Workplaces: Universities, space research agencies (e.g., NASA), observatories.
• Average Salary: Typically $100,000–$130,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Limited positions, but demand exists in academia and government research.
  

31. Geophysicist

• What They Do: Apply principles of physics to study the Earth’s interior, magnetic and gravitational fields.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Geophysics or Physics; advanced roles require a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Oil and gas companies, environmental consulting, government agencies.
• Average Salary: Around $90,000–$110,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Strong in resource exploration and environmental assessment.
  

IX. Earth Sciences

32. Geologist

• What They Do: Study the Earth’s composition, structure, and the processes that shape it.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Geology; a Master’s or Ph.D. is beneficial for specialized roles.
• Typical Workplaces: Environmental consulting, government agencies, mining, and energy companies.
• Average Salary: Approximately $70,000–$90,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Varies by industry; resource exploration can drive strong demand.
  

33. Meteorologist

• What They Do: Analyze weather patterns and atmospheric phenomena to forecast weather and study climate change.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Meteorology or Atmospheric Science; Master’s preferred for advanced research.
• Typical Workplaces: Government weather agencies, private forecasting companies, media outlets.
• Average Salary: Around $70,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Steady with opportunities in climate research.
  

34. Oceanographer

• What They Do: Study the physical, chemical, and biological aspects of the ocean.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Oceanography or Marine Science; advanced research roles require a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Research institutions, government agencies, environmental organizations.
• Average Salary: Approximately $70,000–$85,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Growing as interest in marine conservation increases.
  

X. Engineering and Applied Sciences

35. Chemical Engineer

• What They Do: Use principles of chemistry and engineering to develop processes for manufacturing chemicals and materials.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering; advanced positions may require a Master’s degree.
• Typical Workplaces: Chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, energy companies.
• Average Salary: Approximately $100,000–$110,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Strong, driven by innovation in manufacturing.
  

36. Biomedical Engineer

• What They Do: Design and develop medical devices, equipment, and software to improve healthcare.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Biomedical Engineering; Master’s preferred for research and development roles.
• Typical Workplaces: Hospitals, medical device companies, research institutions.
• Average Salary: Around $90,000–$100,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Rapidly growing with advances in healthcare technology.
  

37. Environmental Engineer

• What They Do: Develop solutions to environmental problems such as water and air pollution.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Environmental Engineering or a related field; Master’s for higher-level positions.
• Typical Workplaces: Government agencies, consulting firms, private industry.
• Average Salary: Approximately $90,000–$100,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Strong growth driven by environmental regulations and sustainability efforts.
  

XI. Computer Science & Data Science in Science

38. Data Scientist

• What They Do: Analyze large datasets to extract insights and inform decision-making in research and industry.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Data Science, Statistics, or related field; often a Master’s for advanced roles.
• Typical Workplaces: Tech companies, research labs, finance, healthcare.
• Average Salary: Typically $100,000–$120,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Exceptionally strong across multiple industries.
  

39. Bioinformatician

• What They Do: Combine biology, computer science, and statistics to analyze biological data.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Bioinformatics, Biology, or Computer Science; Master’s/Ph.D. common for research positions.
• Typical Workplaces: Research institutions, biotech companies, pharmaceutical companies.
• Average Salary: Around $85,000–$110,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Rapidly growing as genomic data becomes more available.
  

40. Software Engineer (Scientific Computing)

• What They Do: Develop software and computational tools for scientific research and data analysis.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Computer Science or Software Engineering; Master’s often preferred in specialized fields.
• Typical Workplaces: Research institutions, tech companies, governmental labs.
• Average Salary: Typically $100,000–$120,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Very high, with increasing integration of computing in science.
  

XII. Other Science Careers

41. Epidemiologist

• What They Do: Investigate patterns and causes of disease in populations to improve public health.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Public Health or related field; Master’s (often an MPH) or Ph.D. for advanced roles.
• Typical Workplaces: Government health agencies, hospitals, research organizations.
• Average Salary: Approximately $70,000–$85,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: High, especially in response to global health challenges.
  

42. Forensic Scientist

• What They Do: Apply scientific methods to analyze evidence for criminal investigations.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Forensic Science, Chemistry, or Biology; advanced positions may require a Master’s degree.
• Typical Workplaces: Crime labs, law enforcement agencies, private consulting firms.
• Average Salary: Around $60,000–$75,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Steady growth with continual need for forensic analysis.
  

43. Science Educator / Teacher

• What They Do: Teach and inspire the next generation of scientists in K–12 or postsecondary institutions.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Science Education or a science field plus a teaching credential; advanced degrees for college-level teaching.
• Typical Workplaces: Schools, community colleges, universities.
• Average Salary: Varies widely ($50,000–$70,000 for K–12; higher in postsecondary roles).
• Job Outlook: Consistent demand, especially in STEM-focused education.
  

44. Science Writer / Communicator

• What They Do: Translate complex scientific concepts for public audiences through articles, media, and digital platforms.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Journalism, Communications, or a science field; experience in both writing and science is highly valued.
• Typical Workplaces: Media outlets, research institutions, freelance opportunities.
• Average Salary: Approximately $50,000–$75,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Growing with increased emphasis on science communication.
  

45. Agricultural Scientist

• What They Do: Research ways to improve agricultural practices, crop yields, and sustainability.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Agriculture, Plant Science, or related field; Master’s/Ph.D. for advanced research.
• Typical Workplaces: Government agencies, research institutions, agribusiness companies.
• Average Salary: Around $60,000–$75,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Steady, with a growing focus on sustainable practices.
  

46. Food Scientist

• What They Do: Apply scientific principles to improve food safety, quality, and production processes.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Food Science, Chemistry, or Microbiology; advanced research roles require a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Food manufacturing companies, government agencies, research labs.
• Average Salary: Approximately $65,000–$80,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Growing with increased regulatory focus on food safety.
  

47. Nuclear Scientist / Engineer

• What They Do: Research nuclear energy and radiation applications in medicine, energy, and industry.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Nuclear Engineering or Physics; advanced roles require a Master’s or Ph.D.
• Typical Workplaces: Energy companies, government research labs, hospitals.
• Average Salary: Typically $100,000–$130,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Niche field with steady demand in energy and research sectors.
  

48. Hydrologist

• What They Do: Study the distribution, circulation, and properties of water on Earth.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Environmental Science or Geology; Master’s preferred for research.
• Typical Workplaces: Government agencies, consulting firms, research institutions.
• Average Salary: Around $70,000–$85,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Steady demand as water resource management becomes more critical.
  

49. Acoustical Engineer

• What They Do: Study sound and vibration, designing systems for noise control and sound quality in various environments.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Acoustical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics; Master’s often preferred.
• Typical Workplaces: Architectural firms, audio technology companies, research institutions.
• Average Salary: Approximately $70,000–$90,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Moderate growth with niche opportunities in media and construction.
  

50. Biostatistician

• What They Do: Apply statistics to the analysis of biological and health data, aiding in research and clinical trials.
• Degree Needed: Bachelor’s in Statistics or Biostatistics; often a Master’s or Ph.D. for advanced roles.
• Typical Workplaces: Universities, government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, public health organizations.
• Average Salary: Around $80,000–$100,000 per year.
• Job Outlook: Very strong, driven by the increasing importance of data-driven decision-making in healthcare.
  

Final Notes

This guide offers a snapshot of diverse science careers spanning academic research, applied science, engineering, and communication. Keep in mind that salaries and job outlooks can vary by location, experience, and changing market demands. For the most current information, consulting resources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and professional organizations in each field is recommended.