What do biologists do?

Research: Research biologists study the natural world, using the latest scientific tools and techniques in both laboratory settings and the outdoors, to understand how living systems work.

Health care: Biologists develop public health campaigns to defeat illness and prevent the spread of deadly diseases. Veterinarians tend sick and injured animals, and physicians, dentists, nurses, and other health care professionals maintain the general health and well being of their patients.

Environmental management and conservation: Biologists work to solve environmental problems and preserve the natural world for future generations. Park rangers protect state and national parks and educate the public. Zoo biologists carry out endangered species recovery programs. Management and conservation biologists work with communities to develop management plans.

Education: Life science educators help people to learn new things in classrooms, research labs, the field, or in museums.

New directions for biological careers in the 21st century:

Biotechnology: Biologists apply scientific principles to develop and enhance products, tools, and technological advances in fields such as agriculture, food science, and medicine.

Forensic science: Forensic biologists work with law enforcement agencies using scientific methods to discover and process evidence to solve crimes.

Politics and policy: Science advisors work with lawmakers to create new legislation on topics such as biomedical research and environmental protection.

Business and industry: Biologists work with drug and science product companies in testing, sales, marketing, and public relations.

Economics: Biologists work with the government and other organizations to address the economic impacts of biological issues, such as species extinctions, forest protection, and pollution.

Mathematics: Bioinformatic and computational biologists apply mathematics to solve biological problems, such as modeling ecosystem processes and gene sequencing.

Science writing and communication: Journalists with science backgrounds inform the public about emerging biological issues.

Art: Life sciences illustrations in textbooks and newspaper/magazine articles are created by artists with an understanding of biology.

According to the American Institute of Biological Sciences 

“As a non-traditional student, I really didn’t know what to expect, but my decision to study Biology at Purdue Calumet turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made. My journey was made easier by my advisor, who acquainted me with my chosen curriculum and research, while teaching opportunities have combined to give me hands-on experience that enhances my understanding.”

 Janet Tarkington       
Junior – Pre-Dentistry
from Highland, IN 

“I enjoy the interactive and relational nature of the Biology program.  Professors are excited about cooperating and sharing ideas, which makes discussing challenging topics interesting and enjoyable. . . The knowledge I am gaining with respect to the sciences, professionalism and ethics will help me to excel.  It is part and parcel of who I am and who I will become.”

Brian Douts
Senior – Biology major
from Schererville, IN