Biology is the study of life and living things. It is actually a multi-science composed of many disciplines unifiedby the fact that all living things - plants, animals, and microorganisms - follow the same fundamental laws of heredity, reproduction, growth, development, self-maintenance and response. Zoology focuses on interests in animal biology, covering a spectrum from traditional natural history and field biology to the mammalian biology underlying medical research. In spite of its traditional place as a subdivision of biology, zoology has, through its animal orientation, fostered some of the most relevant and exciting research being conducted today: in immunology and immunogenetics, in hormonal action, in genetic regulation in development, and in animal behavior and social structure. Many of these are concerns shared by functionally oriented departments or fields, but zoology is the focal point of all.
Biologists study all aspects of living organiams and the relationship of animals, plants, insects and microbes to their environment. Many specialize in ornithology (the study of birds), microbiology (the study of microscopic organisms), or some other area. All have in common the study of life. Many are involved in research and development. Some conduct basic research to increase knowledge of living organisms, while others in applied research use this knowledge to develop new medicines, increase crop yields, improve the environment, and other such activities.
Biochemists study the chemical composition and behavior of living things, and may study the effects of food, hormones, or drugs on various organisms. They may work in the areas of medicine, nutrition, or agriculture, however, most work in basic research which involves such things as weighing, filtering, distilling, drying, and culturing (growing) organisms. Sometimes they design special apparatus or equipment necessary to their work. Some Biochemists work in applied research which uses thediscoveries of basic research to solve practical problems.
Microbiologists study bacteria and related organisms such as viruses, fungi, yeasts, algae, and protozoa. In their work they isolate, cultivate, classify, and control these microscopic forms of life so that they can study their structure and life processes. They study organisms that are helpful and even vital to life, and also work with those that produce disease. Microbiologists are interested in the effects microorganisms have on living or dead animal and plant cells, bacterial cells, tissues and organs. They use their knowledge and skills in many fields of work. The study of microorganisms is useful in medical and dental research, food and drug industries, public health programs, agriculture, veterinary studies, chemical and petroleum industries, and marine research, to name a few.
Crime Lab Analysts - The solution to a crime often comes from evidence processed in a laboratory. There, skilled workers known as Crime Lab Analysts or Criminalists examine the evidence. What they find may help convict or prove innocent a person accused of a crime. Crime Lab Analysts do not take sides. They use their skills to learn the facts. The word "forensic" means used in courts of law. Since Crime Lab Analysts examine evidence for use in court, they are sometimes called forensic scientists, and work in forensic laboratories. These labs have sections for drug analysis, blood & serum tests, toxicology, firearms and toolmarks, documents, fingerprints, explosives, and trace evidence. Analysts in a crime lab may focus on one of these lines of work. In many small labs, however, they work in several.
Cytotechnologists stain, mount and study cells of the human body to determine pathological condition. They examine specimens and diagnose nature and extent of disease or cellular damage. They execute a variety of lab tests & analyze to confirm their findings and then report this information to the Pathologist.
Food Scientists - Technologists - A Food Scientist-Technologist, depending upon the company or organization he or she is working for, may function as a scientist or technologist or both. It is important to draw the line between the two sets of responsibilities. Generally speaking, the Food Scientist is concerned with the fundamental properties of food, taking into effect, nutritive value, and caloric content. If you were working as a Technologist, you would be involved with product development, processing, and quality control. Scientist-Technologists search for ways to retain the characteristics and nutritive value of foods during processing and storage. They also supervise chemical and microbiological tests to see that products meet industry and government requirements.
Quality Control Technicians inspect raw materials and finished products, and test & adjust packaging equipment during processing of foods such as corn chips, potato chips and cheese puffs. They determine oil, salt & moisture content of raw materials and finished products using measuring devices, and place standard weights on balance mechanism to determine accuracy of packaging scales. They also adjust temperature controls for intensity of heat required to seal packages, record inspection data and write reports of irregularities.
Food & Drug Inspectors inspect establishments where food, drugs, cosmetics, and similar items are made, handled, stored or sold. They investigate sanitary conditions and the health and hygiene habits of persons handling products. Samples are collected and bacterial and chemical laboratory tests are run. Food & Drug Inspectors inform individuals of the regulations affecting their firms and question employees, consumers, and vendors to obtain evidence for prosecuting violators. Subgrade items are destroyed and impure, toxic, damaged, and mishandled items are prohibited for sale.
Medical Laboratory Technicians perform laboratory tests on specimens taken from patients by other health professionals, such as physicians. They perform these tests under the general direction of pathologists and other physicians. They analyze blood, tissues, and fluids in the human body, using various kinds of instruments.
Medical Technologists (also called Clinical Lab Specialists) take part in all the work in a clinical (medical) laboratory, including laboratory management and super vision. They perform chemical and microscopic analyses of blood, urine, spinal fluids, and other body substances. They also inspect cultures to detect bacteria, viruses, and other organisms that cause disease. Their work is continually changing as medical research develops new methods and technologies for detecting and treating disease.
Pharmacologists conduct tests on animals such as mice, rats, rabbits, guinea pigs and monkeys to determine the affect of various drugs and medical compounds on the functioning of tissues and organs. They make a note of the type, quantity, and timing of medicines administered as part of the experiment. They make blood smears from time to time and perform autopsies to study the results of the experiments. Some Pharmacologists may develop new or improved drugs and medicines.
Histologic Technicians (HT) and Histologists (HTL) may be either health care workers or industrial workers. They prepare microscopic slides of tissues from humans, animals, or plant material. They are part of a team who help physicians diagnose diseases or help researchers test new products or those already on the market.
Geneticists study heredity - what is inherited and how it varies in forms of life. They may work in three broad fields: biology, medicine, or agriculture. They perform tests to learn about the laws, mechanisms, and environments that affect the ways inherited traits begin, develop and pass from one generation to the next. They may apply their studies to humans, animals, or plants.
Environmental Researchers study the ties between living organisms and the environment. They conduct laboratory studies, do fieldwork, and help develop life sustaining measures that will preserve and protect the environment that all share. The results of their efforts often appear in scientific journals and books. Among these scientists are analysts and toxicologists who study air pollution, water quality, or soils; Forest ecologists, aquatic ecologists, plant ecologists and animal ecologists.
Environmental Health Inspectors plan, develop, and carry out environmental health programs. They make sure that food, water, and air meet government standards, and check the cleanliness and safety of food and beverages produced in dairies and processing plants, or served in restaurants, hospitals and other institutions. They oversee treatment and disposal of sewage, refuse and garbage. They also examine areas where pollution is a danger, test for pollutants, and collect air and water samples for analysis. They determine the nature and cause of pollution and initiate action to stop it.
Industrial Hygienists investigate working conditions at places of employment, often industrial worksites, to identify hazards that may cause disease or injury, and determine their source. They prepare reports covering their findings, propose corrective measures, and then consult with management.
Public Health Microbiologist - In an environmental laboratory, Public Health Microbiologists do tests to find harmful or disease-causing microorganisms in water, food or the environment. Public health depends on a pure water supply, a sewage treatment system that works, and wholesome food products. Public Health Microbiologists find out how many and what kinds of bacteria or organisms are in the water supply and decide whether the water is fit to drink. They test milk, shellfish, and other foods for harmful microorganisms, and they test samples of sewage, check the sludge left from sewage treatment, and decide if sewage plants meet standards. Their work helps rid food and water of sources of pollution and prevents the spread of contagious disease. Microbiologists also work with specimens from persons in order to help doctors diagnose disease or control an epidemic. They do tests to find out what organisms are in the blood or tissue. Tests can also prevent the spread of disease. Some Public Health Microbiologists help make vaccines to prevent disease.
Public Health Service Officer inspects public facilities for health hazards or directs inspection by others. Participates in establishing free clinics, cancer detection centers and other programs to improve public health. Develops and coordinates public relations campaigns to promote programs and services; Conducts examinations of hospitals, indigent care centers, and other institutions under control of municipality to insure conformance to accepted standards; Prohibits sale of unsafe milk and other food and dairy products; May impose quarantines on area, animals or persons with contagious disease; and may order closing of establishments not conforming to prescribed health standards.
Pollution Control Technicians conduct tests and field investigations to determine sources and methods of controlling pollutants in the air, water, and soil. They collect samples to test for atmospheric pollutants and to determine the nature of the pollutants. Then they write reports of their findings for review.
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) are members of the team that gives prehospital care. They help reduce the number of persons whomight die or suffer long-term injuries from lack of prompt medical care. Emergency Medical Technicians work in all kinds of situations. They help people trapped in a car or in a cave; they treat heart attack victims; they treat people rescued from icy waters or a burning building; they help people who have overdosed on drugs or who have been struck by lightning; they help children who fall off bikes or swallow poison. When these and other accidents occur, EMTs are truly lifesavers.
Physical Therapists are responsible for planning, implementing and evaluating a physical therapy program for patients of all ages who are disabled by illness or an accident, or who were born with a handicap. The treatments given by the physical therapist include exercises for increasing strength, endurance, coordination, and range of motion; the use of heat, cold, electricity, sound, and water to relieve pain and stimulate motor activity, and instruction in activities of daily living and the use of assistive devices.
Respiratory Therapists work in hospitals, clinics, and patients' homes to give both emergency and long-term care to patients with ailments that affect breathing. They follow a physician's orders to treat patients with heart failure, asthma, emphysema, blood clots in the brain, loss of blood, and shock, and use equipment that controls air pressure, moisture, and temperature. They also use ventilators, oxygen masks and tents, and humidifiers. Respiratory therapists also teach. They show patients and family members how to use equipment and how to give respiratory care at home. Therapists teach respiratory therapy technicians, nurses, and other hospital staff basic respiratory care skills.
Teachers - For the past 3 or 4 years, the Office of Career Planning & Placement has noticed a shortage in Secondary Education teachers, and while it is true that Certification is required to teach in New York State, once a school has exhausted every possible means to find a certified teacher, they are allowed to hire someone who is not certified. As you can see from the jobs which were reported to us by SUNY Oswego Biology and Zoology graduates, there were some graduates who accepted teaching positions in the public schools of New York State. In addition, private schools often hire non-certified liberal arts graduates for teaching positions. Some of these private schools offer special first-year training programs for inexperienced teacher candidates which will assist them in obtaining certification.
Zoologists study animals. They inquire into where animals come from, their habits and life cycles, their diseases, and the parasites (such as fleas and tapeworms that live on or inside them. Zoology takes in many specialities. Among them are anatomy (the structure and form of animals), cell and molecular biology, evolution, and animal ecology (how animals adapt to their surroundings). Zoologists may also focus on insects, fish, snakes and lizards, or fossils. They collect facts useful to workers in farming, medicine, pharmacy, wildlife conservation, and pest control. They often work in laboratories where they may inspect samples of animal tissue under a microscope that magnifies objects fifty thousand times or more. They also study live animals in both controlled and natural surroundings.
Careers Working With Animals
Some basic fields of specializationinvolving work with animals include:
1. Veterinary Medicine
2. Zoological Park Management
3. Wildlife Management
4. Animal Welfare
5. Conservation
6. Animal Training
7. Pet Sales & Service
VETERINARY MEDICINE
This field is concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of animal health problems. The major areas of concentration include private practice, community health, and research.
<Job titles include:
A. Veterinarians B. Veterinary Assistants C. Veterinary TechniciansD. Animal Lab Technicians
E. Animal Hospital Clerks
F. Animal Care Attendants
G. Pet Psychologists
ZOOLOGICAL PARK MANAGEMENT
Zoos are, by definition, facilities which exhibit collections of living animals. The activities of zoos include species propagation, public education, and zoological research. The principal institutions working in this field are municipal parks and recreation departments and commercial amusement businesses.
Job titles include:
1. Zoo Director/Curator
2. Zoo Keeper
3. Zoo Tour Guides
4. Animal Nurses (See Page 7 for job description)
5. Wild Animal Trainer
WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT
Wildlife management, wildlife science and wildlife biology are interrelated terms which refer to the study and regulation of wild animals. Wildlife management involves the practical application of biological data in combination withecological principles and techniques to preserve and control wild animalpopulations. Wildlife management programs involve law enforcement, game management and field research. Successful wildlife management is based upon facts obtained by scientific research.
Wildlife Biologists perform basic or applied research to obtain facts on such subjects as physiology, genetics, ecology, behavior, disease, nutrition, population dynamics, land-use changes or pollution. As a research scientist, you must be inquisitive, have patience and persistence, be able to collect, analyze and interpret facts with objectivity and proficiency, and report them clearly to administrators and other publics. Facts gained from research form the basis for management with predictable results.
ANIMAL WELFARE
Institutions specializing in this field are concerned with the prevention and alleviation of animal suffering. Animal welfare involves programs of cruelty investigation, humane education, animal rescue and animal control. The principle institutions working in this field are community humane societies and municipal animal control agencies. Job titles include:
Animal Control Officers
Shelter Managers
Kennel Workers
CONSERVATION
Conservation is concerned with the planned protection of flora and fauna to prevent their exploitation, destruction, or neglect, and involves programs of habitat preservation, species propagation, and field research. The principal institutions working in this field include state and national non-profit organizations chartered for the protection or study of wild animals.
Job titles include:
Conservation Officer - May also be known as a conservation warden or game warden - is primarily concerned with game species, wild animals which are exploited for commercial and recreational purposes. The principal duties of a conservation officer involve the enforcement of laws and regulations regarding hunting, trapping and fishing. He/She investigates reports of game law violations, arrests offenders, and assists in the preparation and prosecution of criminal charges against game law violators.
ANIMAL TRAINING
Animal Training is a technical skill which uses knowledge of an animal's habits and learning ability. The trainer teaches an animal to perform certain feats upon command.
Dog Obedience Instructors account for the greatest number of animal trainers who are professionally employed. They train guide dogs for the blind, security guard dogs, and detector dogs which are used by the U.S. Customs Service.
Performing Animal Trainers specialize in animal acts which appear in circuses and carnivals, at fairs, trade shows, shopping malls and at civic events.
Professional Trainers also work within the motion picture and television industries.
PET SALES AND SERVICE
This field includes the breeding, kenneling, and sales of pet animals, and the supplying of pet accessories. Pet sales and service involves animal care, animal husbandry, product design, and salesmanship. The primary institutions in this work include pet stores and kennels. Job titles include:
A. Kennel Owners and Operators
B. Animal Breeders
C. Dog Groomers
D. Pet Shop Managers and Workers
ADDITIONAL CAREER OPTIONS
Park Rangers, known for their "Smokey the Bear" hats, are among thousands of workers in the National Park Service. They direct conservation efforts, present programs and tours for the public, and enforce park rules. As law enforcement officers, rangers patrol the park to prevent fires, vandalism, and theft. They may arrest lawbreakers. Search and rescue missions are common in forest and mountain parks.
Excursion Guides conduct tourists on hikes, raft trips, and safaris into wilderness areas and geographical locations throughout the world. Excursion guides may be employees of a travel agency or wildlife authorities working under contract to a travel agency.
Park Naturalist, professionally known as an Interpretive Naturalist, organizes, coordinates, and directs recreational programs relating to environment. They guide nature walks, lecture on natural history, design visitor center exhibits, and manage park lands. They also study, manage, and protect the wildlife inhabitants of park lands. Their mission is to assist the public in appreciating and understanding the natural world. They seek to inspire public participation in, and support for, conservation and wildlife protection programs.
Professional Writer - Career opportunities for professional writers exist within the fields of animal welfare and conservation. Career options for persons with writing ability may be delineated by seven job titles: dog writer, outdoor writer, photojournalist, environmental writer, columnist, publicist, and staff writer/editor.
Humane Education Specialists seek to educate the public to animal problems; encourage natural curiosity and motivate further study of animals; provide a learning experience regarding the treatment of animals; instill in man the habits of courtesy, consideration, and responsibility toward other living creatures.
Pet Psychologist (often called Animal Behaviorist) can help household pets become pleasant members of their families. Psychologists can analyze unacceptable animal behavior, and in most cases, can rectify it. Conversely, pets are used in therapy to lessen the pain or loneliness of the sick, the handicapped and the elderly. Social workers and human psychologists are finding that the unconditional love pets can hold for people and their warm, furry presence can qualify them as effective members of the psychological treatment team. Both these fields - pets in therapy and pets used as a part of therapy - are very recent, and are only now being recognized as fulfilling important needs. Some veterinary schools are ahead of others in introducing these areas into the curriculum.
Animal Nurses specialize in the care of infant and juvenile animals quartered in the animal nurseries of zoological parks. The animal nurse serves in the role of a foster parent providing for the care and socialization of young zoo animals. They receive on-the-job training from zoo veterinarians.
Photographers, skilled in photography, provide prints for use in illustrating manuscripts, visually document events and incidents relating to animals, create interpretive works & portraits of animals for public sale, and are usually self-employed.
