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| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 134 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 136 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 126 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 139 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 151 | 0.00% |
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $77,808 | $37.41 | +11.6% |
| 2024 | $69,742 | $33.53 | +5.6% |
| 2023 | $66,054 | $31.76 | +2.4% |
| 2022 | $64,496 | $31.01 | +4.7% |
| 2021 | $61,629 | $29.63 | --1.0% |
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 47 | 1% |
| 2 | California | 39,536,653 | 104 | 0% |
| 3 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 18 | 0% |
| 4 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 11 | 0% |
| 5 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 10 | 0% |
| 6 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 9 | 0% |
| 7 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 8 | 0% |
| 8 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 8 | 0% |
| 9 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 4 | 0% |
| 10 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 2 | 0% |
| 11 | Delaware | 961,939 | 2 | 0% |
| 12 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 1 | 0% |
| 13 | Vermont | 623,657 | 0 | 0% |
| 14 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 0 | 0% |
| 15 | Nevada | 2,998,039 | 0 | 0% |
| 16 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 0 | 0% |
| 17 | Kentucky | 4,454,189 | 0 | 0% |
| 18 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 0 | 0% |
| 19 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 0 | 0% |
| 20 | Alaska | 739,795 | 0 | 0% |
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Concord | 1 | 1% | $118,736 |
University of Northern Iowa
University of California, Irvine
California State University - Long Beach
San Jose State University
Lake Superior State University
Brigham Young University
Coastal Carolina University
University of Rhode Island
Stockton University
Macalester College
Pennsylvania State University - York
Cornell University
Saint Xavier University
Norfolk State University
Carthage College
Cleveland State University
American University
Quinnipiac University
Theresa Spradling: Biology is the study of life, including bacteria, plants, animals, and people, so biology is an incredibly diverse field! What biologists do day to day depends on the area of biology that the biologist works in. Some biologists work in the field of conservation to protect animals and plants, some work in scientific research labs to advance our knowledge of nature and of medicines, some biologists teach, and some biologists specialize in helping people in healthcare settings by serving as doctors, nurses, physicians assistants, physical therapists, genetic counselors, dentists, and more. Each of these people have jobs that differ day to day and hour to hour.
Rachael Barry Ph.D.: Microbiologists can work in a wide variety of different professions. Because microbes are very diverse, there are many academic, clinical, and industrial areas where training in microbiology is advantageous. For example, in addition to the importance of microbes in a world recovering from a recent global viral pandemic, microbes can be a source of molecules with clinical uses such as antibiotics, can help us perform environmental remediation, and can serve as living reactors to produce biofuels.
Rachael Barry Ph.D.: Microbiologists work with microscopic organisms such as bacteria and fungi as well as with viruses. They can work in healthcare and clinical settings, in basic research, and industry. There are roles for microbiologists in the cosmetics and personal care industry, the food and beverage industry, as well as the energy and biofuels industry, among others. Many microbiologists spend their days culturing organisms and studying their traits or manipulating those traits to perform useful tasks. Some microbiologists work in the field collecting samples, others are at the bench performing research, and some perform clinical and other types of testing. An entry-level microbiologist may be involved in preparing media for growing microbes, creating and maintaining new versions of microbes, and testing the properties of these organisms. Common methods used by microbiologists include aseptic technique, cell culture, microscopy, and sequencing.
Rachael Barry Ph.D.: Microbiology is a very hands-on science. Many microbes are straightforward to manipulate genetically and can be propagated quickly, leading to quicker results and innovations than other areas of biology. The relevance to healthcare and industrial applications also means that microbiology skills are often in demand. However, with the diverse nature of the field, this can mean that extensive training may be needed for some positions, including graduate study.
California State University - Long Beach
Microbiological Sciences And Immunology
Renaud Berlemont Ph.D.: Being a microbiologist helps you understand many of the things we take for granted. Antibiotics, vaccines, many chemicals, fermented food, infectious diseases, etc. Sometimes it seems “unnatural” because we can’t directly see them. However, we can see the result of their actions everywhere!
Renaud Berlemont Ph.D.: Microbiology is a very exciting field to get in because, as shown by the COVID pandemic, we live in a microbial world and these tiny things can have a huge impact on human populations. However, detecting, controlling, responding to these potential threats also require microbiologists to design vaccine, detection methods, etc.
San Jose State University
Natural Sciences
Rachael French: The Biology Department does not generally provide content for for-profit websites.
Rachael French: The Biology Department does not generally provide content for for-profit websites.
Dr. Kevin Kapuscinski Ph.D.: Traditional fisheries skills such as setting and lifting nets, and collecting biological data from fish will continue to be important. Managing, analyzing, and interpreting data using spreadsheets and statistical software are also essential in fisheries. Other skills such as acoustic telemetry (deploying & maintaining receivers, implanting fish with transmitters), analyzing spatial data or other 'big data' sets, and laboratory skills (e.g., eDNA, water quality, emerging contaminants) are likely to increase in demand as technologies continue to develop.
Dr. Kim O'Neill: I think the skills that will become most useful in the next few years will be the ability to manipulate genes, understand the basic sciences such as immunology, bacteriology, virology and molecular biology. Microbiologists have a good understanding of infectious diseases, and how the human body deals with them...
Jennifer Slate PhD: Because there are so many types of jobs in biology, there is a job to suit everyone! Jobs may be people-oriented, focus primarily on labwork, or even allow one to spend time outdoors. Many (but not all) jobs in biology require further education after finishing the bachelor’s degree. Biology graduates often go on to health professional programs, to obtain teaching certification, or to obtain a master’s or PhD degree.
Jennifer Slate PhD: There is currently a huge demand for workers in biology and other STEM professions. Healthcare workers are especially needed in nursing, medicine, and physical therapy. There is a shortage of teachers, particularly those who can teach biology or other sciences. The huge amount of biological data that is available, such as in genetics and environmental biology, means that scientists with analytical skills have great job opportunities.
Jennifer Slate PhD: There are so many different types of jobs in biology, to suit people of different interests. Biologists work in health care, in research labs, in environmental protection, and in teaching- just to name a few fields. Responsibilities on a day-to-day basis will depend upon the particular job field. Common skills required on a daily basis include use of computer software, ability to make and record detailed observations, and teamwork/communication skills.
Danielle Silvia: There are many emerging trends and changes in the natural world making biology a fascinating career to embark on. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of biology is predicted to see a 5% increase in job growth through 2032, as biologists are in high demand across areas such as healthcare, environmental science, sustainability, biotechnology, and more. Due to pressing issues like climate change, the disappearance of species and nature, public health crises, drug development, and genetic engineering, becoming a biologist today will provide career advancement tomorrow. You’ll have the opportunity to make a difference in important areas of society while pursuing an intellectually stimulating career for the long-term.
Danielle Silvia: A day in the life of a biologist typically involves researching various forms of life, such as bacteria, animals, plants, how they impact the world around them, and vice versa. Biologists may run experiments to work towards answering these questions, using some of the latest and greatest scientific tools and techniques in a laboratory setting. The job scope also includes collecting and reviewing data from research and experiments, and creating reports based on findings to solve important problems. Biologists work at all levels on organisms from the molecular to the whole organism to populations.
Danielle Silvia: Working in the field of biology offers a variety of distinct occupations, and the likes and dislikes may vary from person to person. However, if you’re somebody who enjoys thinking analytically, asking big questions then testing them, and exploring natural environments, this career path may be the right fit for you.
Coastal Carolina University
Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, And Population Biology
Derek Crane Ph.D.: Some of our greatest challenges as a global society, such as food security under a changing climate, predicting, preventing, and handling of future pandemics, and rapid loss of biodiversity are based in biology. We need smart, energetic, and motivated people to address these issues.
Brian Plouffe PhD: The biological sciences are an ever-evolving field, so graduates may be at the forefront of innovation in the fields of drug discovery and development, agriculture, and healthcare. With the new advances in genetic engineering and molecular biology, graduates will be involved in future advances that may change the work of medicine, food insecurity and sustainability, and climate control. The broad education of recent graduates will also give the foundation to find and keep a career in a wide variety of fields and industries.
Brian Plouffe PhD: People in the field of biological sciences see the impact of their work on society, which drives them in their career. Biologists are involved in many of the advances that are happening in medicine, agriculture, and climate change, so people in these fields have fulfillment in their careers. That being said, as the field is advancing and growing, the field is also becoming more complex and advanced degrees have become more commonplace in the field. The biological sciences have become a field that is starting to demand more from their scientists, and the pay has not followed suit with these demands. Additionally, many biologists put in long hours and this time at the lab, in the field, and at lectures and conferences all contribute to many biologists' lack of a personal life outside the discipline.
Dr. Adam Aguiar Ph.D.: Biology offers a variety of career opportunities in labs, industry, journalism, environmental organizations, policy-making, teaching, etc. The field is essential for addressing societal challenges and is stable in society.
Dr. Adam Aguiar Ph.D.: Biologists enjoy different aspects such as fieldwork, lab work, data analysis, and communicating scientific concepts. Some find fulfillment in teaching and public seminars, while others may have preferences for specific tasks within the field.
Dr. Adam Aguiar Ph.D.: The daily routine of a biologist can vary on a day-to-day basis, involving being out in the field collecting data, working in a lab using special instruments, or at a computer organizing and analyzing data. Writing for publications and grant proposals is also essential.
Elena Tonc: Big data analysis is becoming an increasingly important skill in both ecology and molecular biology fields so getting as much experience through classes and internships will be valuable, as well as bioinformatic experience specifically with genomics and proteomics for graduates interested in biomedical research. Further, the ability to collaborate across disciplines within biology and outside are becoming increasingly important for tackling complex biological challenges.
Elena Tonc: Stay curious and keep learning-the field is constantly evolving with new techniques and building on previous knowledge so it will be important to stay up-to-date. Also, more generally, there is always something new to learn in biology or explore a new subfield. Another thing to keep in mind is building relationships. Reach out to professionals who are on the career path you desire and schedule informational interviews as they are a fantastic way to gain insights, advice, and potentially even mentorship. Learning from others' experiences can help you navigate your career path more effectively and open up opportunities you might not have considered otherwise. The diversity of career trajectories in biology means there's no one-size-fits-all approach, so being proactive in seeking guidance and learning from others' journeys can be immensely valuable.
Elena Tonc: Having a specialized skillset is one way to increase your compensation potential early in your career as those jobs are high in demand and companies might offer bigger salary incentives as a recruitment tool. Of course, negotiation is a big part too-don't be afraid to ask for higher compensation after researching salary ranges for similar positions in your location.
Jessica Petko: Teaching - Use of technology (virtual reality, AI, remote teaching) and active learning techniques. Research - For cell and molecular biology, experience with bioinformatics (computer programming, working with large datasets, experience with various genome sequencing platforms) and experience with histology and imaging.
Cornell University
International Agriculture
Professor Marvin Pritts: Everyone has to eat, and as the population grows and resources diminish, there is ever increasing demand for more and better-quality food. Even the animals we eat rely on plant-based food. There will never be a time when plant science becomes obsolete. New pests and climate change require that the genetics of our crops and the ways crops are managed change as well. Preservation of our remaining natural areas is critical for ecosystem functioning and quality of life. When COVID hit, attendance at parks skyrocketed and has not diminished. Participation at pick-your-own farms went way up as people rediscovered a connection with nature and their food. So it's a great time to pursue a profession in plant science.
Professor Marvin Pritts: Some jobs are mostly lab-based while others are field-based. Still others involve education or data management so would occur mostly inside. I think the best type of job is one that involves all three components, and a career in plant science can allow for one to participate in all of these. Lab-based jobs typically involve some sort of research, genetic studies, propagation, or analyses of samples. Field-based jobs typically involve growing or propagating plants, data collection or scouting, pest management, plant breeding, or crop and natural area management. The number of careers that fall under the plant science category is very diverse so there is no typical day. Even within a particular career, what is done in a day varies greatly by season of the year.
Professor Marvin Pritts: Some jobs are mostly lab-based while others are field-based. Still others involve education or data management so would occur mostly inside. The best type of job involves all three components, and a career in plant science allows for one to participate in all of these. Lab-based jobs typically involve research, genetic studies, propagation, or analyses of samples. Field-based jobs involve growing or propagating plants, data collection or scouting, pest management, plant breeding, or crop and natural area management. The number of careers under plant science is diverse so there is no typical day. Even within a particular career, daily tasks vary greatly by season of the year.
Saint Xavier University
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
Tatiana Tatum Ph.D.: Maximizing salary potential when starting a career in biology involves several strategies. Firstly, pursue advanced education and training, such as obtaining a master's or doctoral degree, which can lead to higher-paying positions and increased opportunities for advancement. Specializing in high-demand areas of biology, such as biotechnology, pharmacology, or bioinformatics, can also enhance your earning potential. Additionally, gaining relevant work experience through internships, co-op programs, or research positions can make you more competitive in the job market and command higher salaries. Finally, consider seeking employment with companies or organizations in regions with a high demand for biologists and a higher cost of living, as salaries tend to be higher in these areas.
Norfolk State University
Biology
Nazir Barekzi Ph.D.: In order to maximize the salary potential in the field of Biology, stay focused to the fundamental basics and use your skillset to problem solve obstacles and overcome them with confidence. You are no longer in the classroom, so it's time to show off all that you know. In addition, leverage your skills learned in hands-on labs to maximize your salary potential.
Nazir Barekzi Ph.D.: In the field of Biology, it is easy to see that genome analysis and integrating genetic counseling with medical treatment will become more prevalent and common place. Counseling in general will be linked to the biology field as we prepare for future pandemics and realize the importance of mental health.
Nazir Barekzi Ph.D.: As a graduate with a degree in Biology, I advise that you keep up with the technology in the biomedical field. In the age of gene editing, personalized medicine, and advanced implants, the biology degree is a valuable asset to have.
Dana Garrigan Ph.D.: Like all sciences, biology is a dynamic field with new research and technologies reshaping it daily. Remember that credentials are as much about demonstrating your ability to engage in the process of discovery and apply new knowledge as they are about what you know today. Keep learning and innovating!
Anton Komar Ph.D.: Be persistent and focused, learn from the best and try to identify your overall career goals early on. Consider graduate school as an extension of your professional education without any substantial delay.
Meg Bentley: Remember that you are "starting your career" - even the most brilliant and capable people have to start somewhere, so don't attach a starting salary to your self-worth and don't think that a high salary will make up for a miserable job experience. Ask upfront questions about how your employer sets your initial salary and then handles and manages promotions and raises. Remember, that benefits other than salary count toward your overall compensation package (health insurance, retirement, childcare), so include those as well and ask about benefits that are really important to you. Also, do your homework - don't ask for a $90K starting salary when the CEO makes $110K. Once you accept an offer, be willing to listen to feedback on your performance and address it as best you can. Finally - seek out employers/companies where you can have balance, be happy, and do something that you think is important while also identifying ways to grow professionally and increase your salary.
Quinnipiac University
Biology
Craig Magie Ph.D.: Decide what sort of biology you enjoy the most, and pursue a career based on that. For example, some students enjoy laboratory science and would be a good fit for a job in the pharmaceutical industry. Others enjoy being outside in nature and would be better served by a career in the forest service or something similar. The more you enjoy what you do, the more motivated you will be to do it well. Make sure you have marketable skills employers are looking for and play up your critical thinking skills and adaptability. You may not be familiar with the specific technologies used in a particular job, but if you can demonstrate that you are a quick and eager learner you will be a more attractive candidate.