Physiology jobs require knowledge of biology, anatomy, and laboratory work. Soft skills such as communication and collaboration are also important for those working with patients. Strong research and problem-solving skills are needed for laboratory work, and proficiency in writing is crucial for submitting studies to scientific journals.
Physiologists study the functions of living organisms. As such, a familiarity with biology and anatomy is essential. Because many careers in physiology are research heavy jobs, proficiency in writing, critical thinking, and laboratory work is also crucial. In addition, many specialists – such as exercise physiologists – work closely with patients, so soft skills such as a high stress threshold and pleasant personality will also come in handy. These skills can be developed through a combination of advanced physiology courses and direct experience gained through internships or similar pathways to physiology jobs.
Physiology and anatomy are invariably linked, as they consider the structures and functions of organisms, respectively. An individual looking for jobs in physiology will need a solid working knowledge of organs, organ systems and the processes they drive. On a smaller scale, familiarity with cellular processes is also important. Other scientific focuses may include chemistry and biology. As scientific experiments often require frequent calculations, prospective physiologists should ideally possess a solid mathematical ability.
Laboratory research is the foundation of most scientific disciplines, including work in physiology. Proficiency in using laboratory equipment such as test tubes and Bunsen burners will thus serve an individual well. Additionally, because animal research is a major component of scientific endeavor, an individual must be willing to conduct experiments in an ethical and humane manner.
Depending on particular physiology jobs, individuals employed in this discipline may work primarily in a laboratory or treat patients directly. In addition to the strengths mentioned, strong research and problem-solving skills are also needed in the physiology laboratory. Workers can submit their studies for consideration in scientific journals, so solid writing skills are likely to be invaluable. As scientific reports tend to have a specific format and a high degree of technical writing, familiarity with these aspects should be achieved.
While individuals must also possess these skills in more applied forms of physiology work, soft skills are one of the most important components of applied work. Working with various personality types requires an even temperament and a firm but friendly approach to interactions. An exercise physiologist, for example, works with patients to develop fitness and nutrition regimens that promote healthy living. These activities require not only collaboration with a wide range of patients, but also with many other healthcare professionals. Individuals in these areas must therefore possess strong teamwork and interpersonal skills, as well as a high stress threshold and a high level of energy for professional and educational pursuits.
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