Marine Biologist
18AI USED FOR18%moving to63%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSD
STARTING PAY£24,000 - £29,000
NO MOATNo physical, legal or personal barrier protects this work from software.
CAREERMASH (EN)FROM BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES →
Marine Biologist
Marine Biologists play a crucial role in understanding and preserving the world's oceans, making significant contributions to environmental conservation and biodiversity. Their research not only informs policy and management practices but also helps combat climate change, ensuring the health of marine ecosystems for future generations.
AI helps here, but has not taken over
AI can already do some of this job, but the day-to-day work still leans on a person to decide, check and take responsibility. Nothing formally protects this job though, so the safest move is to keep building the judgement AI cannot yet copy.
Career progression path
Is this the only route?
This is the standard academic trajectory, but modern careers are highly flexible. You can often skip stagesby entering the industry with an advanced qualification (like a Master's or PhD), or pivot sideways from a related discipline.
0ACADEMIC FOUNDATIONUniversity DegreeUsually 3 to 4 years of full-time academic study, explicitly preparing you for the theoretical realities of the industry. Requires A-Levels, BTECs, or equivalent Level 3.-£83,910Avg. UK tuition & living
1FIRST STEPJunior Marine BiologistIn this entry-level role, you will assist in fieldwork and laboratory analysis, gaining hands-on experience in marine research.£24,000 - £29,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-level Marine BiologistAt this stage, you will lead research projects, manage field teams, and contribute to publications in scientific journals.£32,000 - £40,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Marine Biologist/Head of Marine ResearchIn a senior role, you will oversee major research initiatives, influence policy decisions, and mentor junior scientists.£45,000+
There is more than one way in
You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely.
Recommended UK degrees
Real courses that qualify you for this career, from the same register that priced the degree above.
Doctorate in Microbiology, GeneralThe University of Montana · DoctorateMedical BiochemistrySwansea University · DegreeGraduado o Graduada en BiologíaUniversitat Rovira i Virgili · GradoDoctorate in Pharmacology and ToxicologyUniversity of California-Irvine · DoctorateBachelor's degree in Biology/Biological Sciences, GeneralIowa State University · BachelorGeologíaUniversidad Del Norte · Bachelor