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Biologist Resume Samples
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0-5 years of experience
Assist with the development and implementation of the Fisheries Extension Program, including generating informational material to distribute and attending outreach and public events.
- Coordinated and attended events including fishing tournaments, boat shows, festivals, school group and youth activities, and fishing clinics.
- Assisted with the development and informational content of an aquarium exhibit constructed at the Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans, LA.
- Manipulated large databases in R to analyze data from a cooperative marine fish tagging program and created informational maps using GIS techniques.
- Participated in various field work activities, not limited to gillnets, seines, trawls, dredges, and vertical line surveys.
- Trained through the NOAA Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP) and conducted recreational fishing interviews.
6-10 years of experience
Developed and performed biomarker analyses on 1,000 rodent DNA samples. Provided technical support for 3 reproductive toxicology studies.
- Performed microsatellite (PCR) and biochemical analyses of DNA samples of protein polymorphisms for genetic monitoring of rodents. Determined DNA quantities on agarose gels. Prepared reports from results.
- Maintained PCR machine and gel analyzer for completion of sample analysis.
- Maintained mammalian cell cultures.
- Operated IVOS (Integrated Visual Operation System) sperm analyzer for reproductive toxicology.
0-5 years of experience
Conducted study to reclassify the rat model to determine if the organism is a proper model for human breast cancer prognosis
- Collaborated with three other team members for the duration of the extensive study
- Analyzed data from Ph.D research associate
- Assisted research associate with bench work, collection, and analysis of data
- Developed a passion for oncology and genuine interest in breast cancer on a personal level
10+ years of experience
- Developed and implemented biosecurity protocol in accordance with APHIS guidelines.
- Developed quarantine protocol to address chronic goldfish herpesvirus.
- Maintained 13 recirculating systems capable of holding approximately 20,000 pounds of ornamental fish.
- Assisted with day to day activities required to sustain an ornamental fish hatchery with approximately $3 million in annual sales.
0-5 years of experience
Collected, entered, and analyzed data on a long-term study of bald eagle demographics and wildlife populations on Shasta Lake, CA.
- Monitored lake use by resident and migratory waterfowl, passerines, and raptors, as well as fish populations.
- Conducted surveys of the lake for fish carcasses during a food habits study, and monitored the effects of recreational fishing on eagle foraging behavior.
- Hired, coordinated, and supervised a field crew of four.
- Affixed radio transmitters to adult bald eagles in order to track and map their movements and foraging locations. Also affixed satellite transmitters to juvenile bald eagles to monitor their movements post-fledging.
- Interacted with the public regarding reservoir management and area closures.
- Collected data on nest attendance by bald eagles for Masters thesis research. Developed a baseline reference for future habitat monitoring using current mapping and survey techniques.
- Produced year-end report presented to Bureau of Reclamation, [company name], and Predatory Bird Research Group.
0-5 years of experience
ATCC Custom Commercial Contracts and BEI Resources (MID-BRR) Bacteriology Production Departments
- Performed production and quality control duties in an ISO accredited laboratory
- Cultivated, identified, characterized and evaluated multiple bacterial strains, using traditional and automated methods (Vitek MS, Vitek 2, Biolog), to ensure quality and integrity of product
- Compiled, maintained and reviewed production batch records and SOPs with precision and efficiency
- Employed several molecular techniques in extracting and quantifying DNA, RNA, plasmids and LPS
- Reduced expenditures on lab supplies by, potentially, greater than 10% through the design and implementation of an Operational Excellence project across multiple departments
- Improved multiple process flows within the department through participation in 5S initiatives
- Trained new employees on protocols and procedures
- Serve as a Chairman of the ERC
10+ years of experience
Handled logistics of product sample distribution to nationwide sales force during and after launch of a new medical device
- Sponsor Liaison with contracted research organization and trial sites for phase IV clinical trial of a medical device
- Prepared various materials for poster presentations, manuscript publications, marketing
- Coordinated off-site biological studies in animals
- Performed basic statistical analysis and evaluation of raw data and prepared graphical results
6-10 years of experience
- Managed and participated in the review of over 50 NRDA early restoration projects.
- Coordinated the review and production of The Gulf of Mexico: Marine and Coastal Atlas.
- Created table summarizing impacts of Gulf oil disaster that became a program cornerstone.
- Worked with CEO to develop [company name]’s five-year priorities.
- Synthesized scientific and policy information into technical paper on Gulf hypoxia restoration.
- Developed blog ideas and web material, wrote numerous blogs and became known as a trusted and reliable reviewer of colleagues’ written content.
0-5 years of experience
Successfully planned a quality control program as well as a genotypic profiling start up lab and created a workflow for sample processing
- Lead research and development team to design protocols for several projects aimed at isolating fetal cells from maternal peripheral circulation using flow cytometry.
- Evaluated and optimized sperm DNA extraction techniques.
- Provided technical expertise and served as task lead in support of internal programs
0-5 years of experience
Operated automations to run assays including adenovirus SEAP neutralization assay, elispot assay, lumination assay and etc.
- Maintained tissue culture in a GLP regulated laboratory.
- Wrote SOP’s for various automations and computer systems to accommodate each assay.
- Researched HIV vaccine for Vaccines & Biologics Research department.
0-5 years of experience
Assisted in bench and pilot scale bioreactor preparation and fungal culture maintenance
- Ran and maintained fermentations in bioreactors of various scales (3Liters, 20Liters, 100 Gallon)
- Used aseptic techniques for cell banking and propagation of cell line (fungal and bacterial)
- Prepared buffers and media for various stages of fermentation
- Executed and analyzed protein assays
- Maintained inventory of relevant media components
- Developed and maintained SOP and batch records for relevant processes
- Assisted in optimization of fungal growth media and conditions
0-5 years of experience
Supervised and trained a staff of field technicians and sub contractors in hazardous waste remediation.
- Separate and propagate a specific strain of bacteria, to be use in consuming hazardous petroleum spills.
- Collected water and soil samples from lakes, streams and surrounding locations to measure MDL’s, pollutants, inorganic/organic compounds and bacteria levels.
- Produce field reports giving sample sites, geographical and weather conditions labeling specific levels of pollutants and depletions of aquatic life.
- Planned designed, directed and manage all aspects of environmental quality and restoration study projects for the company.
- Maintained contacts with clients and through own initiative sought new customers that would enable environmental initiatives within the state to be more broadly seen and understood by clients and governing officials.
- Submitted written reports giving documentation of laboratory findings and actions to be taken by our firm to be approved by customers and regulating officials.
6-10 years of experience
- Conducted basic and applied research on pathogenesis of biological threat agents and infectious diseases within Molecular Pathology department.
- Built alliances with other military and research institutions resulting in valuable collaborations and increasing technical expertise.
- Developed and implemented complex Standard Operating Procedures ensuring consistency in daily protocols.
- Trained and supervised new staff, resulting in an increase in productivity.
- Expert in laser capture microdissection, extraction of biomolecules form archival fixed tissue and quality control of the same.
0-5 years of experience
Biological monitoring for the PG&E Diablo Canyon Nclear Power Plant Onshore Seismic Imaging Study.
- Monitored seismic survey crews across various terrain throughout the Irish Hills of San Luis Obispo County
- Presented educational material regarding local species of concern to new crewmembers coming onto the project.
- Compiled daily monitoring forms and monitoring summaries weekly.
0-5 years of experience
Conducted research and surveys with farmers in order to diagnose and prevent management and production problems
- Trained farmers and demonstrated new techniques in areas of growing and harvesting practices
- Explained to farmers new programs to improve harvesting period and farming techniques
- Collected and evaluated data in order for farmers to maximize their harvest yield and increase growth for the next season
- Participated in community activities and organizations to be more familiar with their activities
0-5 years of experience
Conducted line-transect surveys for the Sunrise Powerlink project in Southern California; searched for signs of avian collision with overhead power lines.
- Hiked 7-8 miles/day collecting data on multiple species including warblers, flycatchers, and vireos
- Identified birds by carcass and feather composition; compiled data in MS Excel
- Submitted weekly reports with data and photographs
- Maintained communication with project coordinator, construction crews and other biologists
0-5 years of experience
- Supported research in oncology and autoimmune drug development by conducting cell-based assays with high-throughput ELISA techniques
- Maintained cell lines required for weekly experiments
- Optimized time management of weekly tasks to ensure that reliable data was acquired as swiftly as possible
- Processed and published data in a timely manner
0-5 years of experience
Preformed testing and research of various FDA/EPA registered anti-microbial products under GLP guidelines
- Planned and Conducted pre-operative skin scrub and hand wash studies under GCP guidelines
- Obtained bacterial samples from human subjects and applied test products following sponsor’s protocols
- Organized testing schedule
- Maintained records associated with clinical studies.
- Maintain primary bacterial and fungal cultures
- Media preparation
0-5 years of experience
Worked with customers to ensure results were delivered on time and satisfactory.
- Performed PCR testing in order to determine sample quality, purity, and detect adventitious presence.
- Analyze and interpret results, including troubleshooting unexpected results
- Participated in method development and troubleshooting for particular material types and assays in order to determine appropriate processes to ensure sufficient DNA amplification and quality results
- Developed troubleshooting methods and pathways for unexpected results
- Complete DNA extraction utilizing several different methods for various crop types.
- Assisted the team in attaining ISO 9001:2008 certification. Fostered this culture by creating written procedures and documents that resolve and prevent nonconformities.
- Prepare all controls and reagents needed throughout the lab
0-5 years of experience
Developed strategies for metabolic engineering of bacterial strains toward amino acid manufacturing
- Designed standard molecular biology assays for cloning, PCR, and gene knockout
- Performed bacterial fermentation analysis through shake flask studies
- Documented project progress through project reports
- Served as Safety Officer for Novus International’s Lincoln, NE facility
0-5 years of experience
Desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) mitigation services for contractors and federal agencies (e.g. BLM)
- Supervised field crews on desert tortoise clearances and performed desert tortoise certification training for construction crews.
- Conducted avian, burrowing owl, and raptor surveys
- Biological and botanical surveys, write reports.
0-5 years of experience
- Functioned as lead biologist for assigned studies.
- Provided general animal care.
- Responsible for data collection including body weights, food weights, and clinical observations.
- Trained in various dose administration techniques in rabbits, rats, and mice.
- Responsible for collection of biological specimens.
- Performed complex behavioral evaluations and assessed developmental landmarks.
0-5 years of experience
Conducted ground and aerial surveys of bald eagles, golden eagles, and other raptors in eastern Idaho.
- Meticulously documented, and mapped, the flight-paths of eagles and raptors.
- Performed mortality monitoring of birds and bats at three different wind farms.
- Designated “field coordinator” of mortality monitoring projects.
- Conducted lek surveys of sage grouse and sharp tailed grouse.
- Effectively performed work under difficult conditions, including exposure to extreme heat, and near-blizzard conditions.
0-5 years of experience
- Field Biologist for Sierra Nevada Songbird Project contracted by the US Forest Service
- Conducted multiple-species avian point counts, call-playback surveys, and vegetation surveys
- Identified over 120 bird species by sight and sound
- Navigated cross-country in mountain terrain using GPS
- Operated government-owned 4×4 vehicles
Biologist Duties and Responsibilities
While a biologist’s duties largely depend on the setting in which they work, there are some commonalities for biologists across settings:
Conduct Biological Research The main responsibility of a biologist is conducting biological research. The biologist begins with a hypothesis and designs a series of experiments to test that hypothesis, measuring and assessing results to determine whether the data supports their idea. Biologists continuously develop new hypotheses based on the results of their work and that of other biologists, and conduct further research to expand their knowledge and understanding.
Monitor Biological and Cellular Activity Throughout their research and experiments, biologists monitor biological activities and processes that can range from the cellular level to an entire organism. This aspect of the role includes examining individual cells under a powerful microscope to determine the impact of certain parts of the experiment, comparing experiment subjects to a control group, and taking readings of chemicals within the organism at set times during the course of the experiment.
Prepare and Present Reports Biologists gather and record information in reports that they may present to conferences, peers, or the general public. In many cases, a biologist’s findings need to go through the peer review process, during which another team of biologists and laboratory technicians attempts to repeat the biologist’s results prior to the publication of the report. In nonacademic settings, the biologist may submit reports to supervisors or executives.
Manage Experiment Data Many biologists conduct rigorous data management activities using proprietary or open source bioinformatics software. These programs are typically complex database systems focused on maintaining and storing publicly available biological data such as genetic information or peer-reviewed findings. The biologist may access this data during the course of the experiment and also share their own findings to benefit the scientific community as a whole.
Oversee Laboratory Technicians Most biologists also direct the activities of laboratory technicians who conduct parts of experiments and report back to the biologist. In this role, the biologist divides a larger or ongoing experiment into discrete parts and instructs team members on conducting their experiments. The biologist also reviews technician work and recreates experiments to check results and provide guidance on processes and procedures.
Biologist Skills and Qualifications
Biologists work in a number of fields, conducting experiments and observations related to plant and animal life. Most biologists have an advanced degree and the following skills:
- Subject matter expertise – biologists need to be experts in their particular field or subfield and should have a deep understanding of macro- and microbiological processes and currently accepted theories
- Laboratory skills – in any field, biologists conduct extensive research and experimentation in laboratory settings, so they should follow best practices for managing experiments and maintaining laboratories
- Team coordination – because they work with laboratory technicians, field researchers, and other scientists, biologists should be able to effectively work with teams and coordinate research activities
- Reporting and documentation – biologists need to accurately record and report the results of laboratory experiments and studies. They need effective verbal and written communication skills to prepare clear and concise reports for peer review and to present research findings at conferences or meetings
- Scientific ethics – biologists must adhere to a code of scientific ethics and ensure that they design experiments and procedures that are in line with ethical limitations
Biologist Education and Training
Depending on the specific field in which a biologist works, educational requirements can vary. While it is possible to become a biological technician with only a bachelor’s degree, most biologists complete a PhD program in their field to expand employment opportunities and expertise. In addition, many biologists complete several years of field or lab work before moving into full-time careers. There are few opportunities for on-the-job training in this role, since many biologists determine their own focus or work within larger research organizations and are expected to possess a high level of expertise in their field.
Biologist Salary and Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) divides biologist salary and job outlook information by specific roles and subfields, including microbiologists, biochemists and biophysicists, and wildlife biologists. Because of this, median salaries for biologists show a great deal of variation. For example, wildlife biologists earn a median annual salary of $62,290 per year, while biochemists and biophysicists earn a median annual salary of $91,190. Biologists who do not fall into one of the other BLS categories earn a median annual salary of $76,690. According to the BLS, most biologist careers will grow at an average or slightly higher-than-average pace through 2026.
Helpful Resources
We searched the web and found several resources if you’re interested in starting a career as a biologist:
American Institute of Biological Sciences – AIBS is the country’s largest biology and life science organization. It offers membership to those who work in related fields, publications regarding new discoveries, and peer reviews for academic and scientific publications
Opportunities in Biological Science Careers – this guide by Charles Winter focuses on jobs in biological science and explores career paths, educational requirements, and salary expectations for a wide range of biologist positions
“2018 Best Colleges for Biology in America” – this comprehensive list provides an excellent starting point for finding high-performing schools and programs to prepare for a career as a biologist
ReSearch: A Career Guide for Scientists – biologists can consult this career guide to learn about career options and opportunities in academia, research settings, and more
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Last edited by: Gabriela Barcenas, CONTENT STRATEGIST -
Gabriela Barcenas
CONTENT STRATEGISTGabriela is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and career adviser. With 10 years of digital media experience and five years of resume writing expertise, her publication history includes fashion, education, travel, social justice, equitable design and career advice.
