Ichthyology is the scientific study of fish, such as salmon.
Ichthyology is the scientific study of fish, including their anatomy, behavior, environment, and interactions with other organisms. Professional ichthyologists conduct detailed field and laboratory research on various species of fish and write scientific articles on their findings. Some scientists apply their expertise to fisheries management and conservation efforts. A person who wants to become an ichthyologist can gain experience in research assistant positions and earn an advanced degree in zoology, biology, or fish science. After graduation, a new scientist generally enjoys extensive employment opportunities in private laboratories, universities, and government organizations.
Ichthyologists are often trained in biology or zoology.
A person who thinks they want to become an ichthyologist must carefully consider the responsibilities and personal characteristics of professionals in the field. The work can be very exciting at times, especially when scientists travel to exotic locations or make research discoveries. However, most of an ichthyologist’s time is spent examining samples in laboratories, entering data into computers, and writing reports. In general, the career is more suitable for people who are very detailed, organized, hard-working and really interested in nature.
A bachelor’s degree in biology or zoology is usually the minimum educational requirement to become an ichthyologist. A prospective student can research four-year colleges with reputable science departments to determine which schools will offer the most opportunities to get started in the field. Classroom and laboratory courses in biology, chemistry, and environmental science introduce the graduate student to the scientific method, terminology, and equipment used by ichthyologists. Many aspiring scientists apply for research assistant positions in university labs while earning their degrees to gain hands-on experience conducting real-world studies.
Some graduates with a bachelor’s degree can find full-time field research positions, although a person who wants to pursue independent study will generally need to earn an advanced degree. A four-year master’s or doctoral program in fish science or zoology can prepare a student to become an ichthyologist. A student typically spends the first half of a graduate program taking advanced lecture and laboratory courses in fish science. The second half is usually devoted to independent practical research on a specific topic, such as the ecological impact of water pollution or the genetics of fish. A student submits research in the form of a thesis or dissertation for a degree.
Close to graduation, students can talk to their teachers for leads on potential employment opportunities. He or she may become an ichthyologist at a fishery, nonprofit environmental organization, or government agency. Some scientists choose to work in universities, conducting research and teaching courses part-time. Most new ichthyologists begin their careers as assistants to established professionals to gain hands-on experience in the field. With experience, a scientist can begin to design and conduct independent studies.