Become an Evolutionary Biologist

Evolutionary biology is an exciting field that offers employment opportunities in academia, government, and even the private sector. To become an evolutionary biologist, you will need to complete high school and then earn an undergraduate degree in the field. You can also pursue a career as an evolutionary biologist by earning a master’s and/or Ph.D. in the field.

Steps

Getting Your Undergraduate Degree

1. Earn a high school diploma. In order to become an evolutionary biologist, you will first need to graduate from high school. As a high school student, you should take as many math and science courses as possible to prepare you for coursework in these subject areas at a university or community college.
   • Try to take advanced placement courses in science and math, if possible.
   • If you have the opportunity, try to take science or math courses for college credit as a high school student.
2. Apply to an undergraduate degree program in evolutionary biology. If you want to become an evolutionary biologist, you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree in the field. Some schools have degrees in evolutionary biology, while others offer degrees in biology with an emphasis in evolutionary biology.
3. Complete the required undergraduate coursework. As an undergraduate pursuing a degree in evolutionary biology, you will need to take a wide variety of coursework in math and science. For example, most undergraduate programs in evolutionary biology require students to complete courses in ecology, genetics, calculus, and chemistry.
   • You will also need to take a number of electives that are outside of your major field.
4. Finish any lab experience requirements. Most undergraduate degree programs in evolutionary biology require students to complete several lab experiences. While some programs mandate only two lab experience requirements, other programs might require three or four. Completing these requirements is necessary to earn your bachelor’s degree.
5. Complete the undergraduate capstone course. Most undergraduate programs require students to complete a capstone course in evolutionary biology. This course is usually taken during your senior year, and often includes research and career development.

Enhancing Your Education and Experience

1. Consider a graduate degree. To be a successful evolutionary biologist, you should consider pursuing a master’s and/or Ph.D. in the field. To apply for these programs, you will need to pass the Graduate Record Exam and submit an application that includes your undergraduate transcripts and letters of recommendation from your former professors or lab supervisors. It will take you approximately two years to earn a master’s degree and four years or longer to earn a Ph.D.
2. Choose a school in close proximity to your research interests. You will gain valuable research experience at both the undergraduate and graduate levels if you select a school close to the habitats and species you want to study. For example, if you want to study ocean life, choose a school in close proximity to the coast.
3. Consider an internship or assistantship. One way to get experience as an evolutionary biologist is through an internship or research assistantship. Ask your professors about opportunities to work or volunteer in their laboratories. As a graduate student, you can apply for research assistantships that will not only give you valuable experience, but also help you pay for your education.

Starting and Advancing Your Career

1. Put together your application materials. Most evolutionary biologists work in the government sector or in academia. To apply to jobs like these, you will need to prepare and submit a cover letter and resume or curriculum vitae. You may also need to submit letters of reference or additional materials like research and writing samples.
   • Consult each individual job announcement to determine what materials will need to prepare for the job application.
2. Apply to jobs. You should apply to a wide variety of jobs, including those in the public sector, academia, and the private sector. The wider you cast your net, the better your chances of landing a great position. Make sure you follow the application directions precisely, and tailor your cover letter to specific positions. If you get a call back, do your best to nail the interview.
3. Take advantage of opportunities to advance your career. Once you land a job, you should do your best to take advantage of any opportunities for career advancement. For example, if you are working as a lecturer in evolutionary biology at a local college and are offered a tenure-track position, you should consider taking the job offer.

== References ==

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