Biological and life sciences are fields of study whose students focus on various aspects of life. They may work within a particular phylum or branch of the plant kingdom, or they may focus on the evolution of organisms. Regardless of the research area, life scientists use a variety of instruments. Table 17 provides an overview of the most common instruments used in life science research. It shows how these instruments are used relative to other types of instruments used in biology.
The number of federal life scientists employed by government agencies is relatively small. Almost a third of life scientists employed by the federal government are biochemists, a percentage that differs by department. Similarly, only seven percent of federal scientists work in the Department of Agriculture while 16 percent work for the Department of Defense.
While industry, individual contributors, and voluntary societies support research, the amount is very low. The average grant from these sources is only $4,000, while grants from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health are over $30000. However, this amount is considerably more than what industry grants provide.
The age distribution of investigators in the United States can give an indication of how the life sciences are changing. Nearly twenty percent of researchers in the life sciences are under the age of 34. Systematic biology and biochemistry are two other areas where there is a large number of female investigators. But the proportion of researchers who are over forty years old suggests that the number of young scientists has not dramatically changed.
Undergraduate programs in biology and life sciences typically last four years. These programs require rigorous coursework, with many lab sessions. They also require long hours and are often demanding. However, they will help you prepare for a career in life’s diverse fields. The field of life sciences is an honorable and relevant one. If you’re considering a career in this field, remember that your childlike curiosity will continue to inspire you.
Students with an interest in biology will take many introductory courses and select a track or concentration. Some biology majors choose to focus on the cellular level, while others focus on the human body or plant biology. Regardless of your interests, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for research in the field. Many programs also offer opportunities for study abroad and internships. There are also many specialized programs available to those interested in biology.
The responses to the National Register survey reveal an important aspect of the diversity of science majors in the United States. Overall, a high proportion of science majors live in the states or census regions where they received their education. This is likely the case for biological and life sciences professionals who pursue doctorates.
Researchers in the field of biology and life sciences work in a diverse range of settings. They range from academic labs to non-academic labs. In academic laboratories, scientists typically employ about 1.5 to four students per group. In non-academic laboratories, the numbers are lower. Non-academic laboratories are staffed by technicians and other supporting staff.
In 1967, the United States invested $2,264 million in life sciences research. This amount came from three types of funding: government funding, industry funding, and foundations. The federal government provided 60.3 percent of the funding. In laboratory research, $435 million was spent. These figures only represent a small part of the total research expenditures.
The United States offers a variety of universities with strong biology programs. While there is no one “best” college for biology study, students should select schools that best fit their lifestyle and budget. Some schools have large, sprawling campuses that feature large departments of courses and many opportunities for independent research, while others are characterized by small classes and individualized instruction. Students should also consider financial aid options before making a decision on where to study.
The United States reported that a significant proportion of scientists are involved in disease mechanisms and physiology. The second-largest group, the molecular and developmental biologists, is engaged in research. Some researchers intend to enter the field of ecology, while a small number of those trained in environmental sciences and behavioral biology plan to pursue careers in ecology. While many life scientists are interdisciplinary, there are important differences in the distribution of researchers among different disciplines.
The majority of life scientists work in institutions of higher learning. A small minority of them are affiliated with liberal arts colleges. The remainder work in research institutions. However, few of them engage in significant research.
