Marine Biologists study animals and plants that live in the sea, and how they interact with their environment.

What do Marine Biologists do at work?

• Observe and research marine plants and animals.
• Identify, classify, and preserve different types of marine life.
• Find out about population growth and life expectancy.
• Plan and run studies and experiments.
• Use computer modelling techniques to predict future events in the marine environment.
• Write reports & publications
• Report the results of their studies

Qualifications

• NCEA Level 3 in subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English, Maths, Statistic, Calculus.
• Master’s degree or Doctorate in one of; Marine biology, Marine Ecology, Marine Conservation, Zoology, or a related science.
• Useful to have experience in Ecology, Conservation, working with plants or animals, diving experience.
• If you want to work in the aquaculture industry, we recommend studying an aquaculture specific degree instead of marine biology such as:  Bachelor of Aquaculture and Marine Conservation | Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT)

Progression

• Marine biologists may choose, a specialization, such as fisheries science or freshwater biology
• Technician, team leader, manager, junior research scientist, senior research scientist