Ichthyology is the study of fish, including their anatomy, behavior, and environment. To become an ichthyologist, one needs a bachelor’s degree in biology or zoology and an advanced degree in fish science or zoology. The career is best suited for detail-oriented, organized, and hard-working individuals. Employment opportunities are available in private laboratories, universities, and government organizations.
Ichthyology is the scientific study of fish, including their anatomy, behavior, environment, and interactions with other organisms. Professional ichthyologists conduct detailed field and laboratory research on various fish species and write scientific papers about their findings. Some scientists apply their expertise to conservation efforts and fisheries management. A person who wants to become an ichthyologist can gain experience in research assistant positions and earn an advanced degree in zoology, biology or fish science. After graduating, a new scientist often enjoys ample employment opportunities in private laboratories, universities, and government organizations.
An individual who believes he or she wants to become an ichthyologist should carefully consider the responsibilities and personal traits of professionals in the field. The work can be very exciting at times, especially when scientists travel to exotic locations or make breakthroughs in research. Most of an ichthyologist’s time, however, is spent examining samples in laboratories, entering data into computers, and writing reports. In general, the career is best suited for people who are very detail-oriented, organized, hard-working and genuinely interested in nature.
A bachelor’s degree in biology or zoology is usually the minimum educational requirement to become an ichthyologist. A prospective student can investigate four-year universities with reputable science departments to determine which schools will offer the most opportunity to get started in the field. Classroom and laboratory courses in biology, chemistry, and environmental science introduce a degree in the scientific method, terminology, and equipment used by ichthyologists. Many up-and-coming scientists apply for research assistant positions in university labs while pursuing undergraduate degrees to gain hands-on experience conducting real studies.
Some graduates with a bachelor’s degree are able to find full-time field research positions, although an individual wanting to undertake independent study will typically need to pursue an advanced degree. A two-year master’s or four-year doctoral program in fish science or zoology can prepare a student to become an ichthyologist. Typically, a student spends the first half of a graduate program taking advanced lecture and laboratory courses in fish science. The second half is usually dedicated to practical independent research on a specific topic, such as the ecological impact of water pollution or fish genetics. A student submits research in the form of a thesis or dissertation in order to obtain a degree.
Closer to graduation, a student can talk to their professors for leads on possible job opportunities. He or she can become an ichthyologist at an environmental organization or nonprofit government fisheries organization. Some scientists choose to work at universities, conducting part-time research and teaching courses. Most new ichthyologists start their careers as assistants to established professionals to gain hands-on experience in the field. With experience, a scientist can begin to design and conduct independent studies.
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