Biology Professor

Associate Professor, Biology Instructor, Biology Professor, Professor
Job Description

A Biology Professor is an academic expert who teaches biology at the college or university level. They are responsible for educating students in various biological sciences, conducting research, and contributing to academic scholarship in their field.

Typical Preparation

Education: Doctoral or professional degree

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: None

Outlook

Projected Growth: 8.6% (far above average)

Annual job openings: 5,400

Direct AI exposure: 20% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 59% of tasks

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $85K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$52K
per year
$64K
per year
$85K
per year
$127K
per year
$170K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $34K above the national average.

What does a Biology Professor do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Develops and delivers lectures and coursework in various biology subjects.
  • Conducts research and publishes findings in academic journals.
  • Supervises and mentors undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Participates in academic committees and contributes to university governance.
  • Stays up to date with current developments in biological sciences.

Work environment

Biology Professors work primarily in academic settings such as universities and colleges. Their environment includes classrooms, laboratories, and research facilities. They may also spend time in offices for planning lectures, grading, and conducting research.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Molecular and Cellular Biology: Focusing on the molecular and cellular processes of life.
  • Ecology and Evolution: Studying organisms in their natural environments and evolutionary processes.
  • Microbiology: Specializing in microorganisms and their interactions with humans, animals, plants, and the environment.
  • Genetics: Concentrating on heredity and variation in organisms.
  • Biotechnology: Applying biological knowledge to develop new technologies and products.

Description

Biology Professors are integral to the field of biological sciences, sharing knowledge and inspiring the next generation of biologists. They blend deep technical knowledge with teaching skills to educate students in the complexities of biology. Alongside teaching, they engage in research, often working on projects that contribute to scientific understanding and advancements. This dual role of educator and researcher requires them to stay at the forefront of biological discoveries and teaching methodologies. The role of a Biology Professor involves more than imparting knowledge; it's about fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry among students. They guide students through laboratory experiments, fieldwork, and theoretical study, preparing them for careers in various biological fields. This career offers the satisfaction of contributing to scientific advancements and education. Biology Professors have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research, collaborate with fellow scientists, and travel for conferences and academic events.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Biology Professor if you are...

Pros:

  • Opportunities for continuous learning and conducting original research.
  • Autonomy in teaching and choosing research topics.
  • Intellectual satisfaction from teaching and advancing the field of biology.

Cons:

  • The competitive nature of academia, particularly in securing tenure and research funding.
  • Balancing teaching responsibilities with research and administrative duties.
  • Pressure to publish in academic journals and maintain a high level of scholarship.

How to become a Biology Professor

Typical education

Becoming a Biology Professor typically requires a Ph.D. in Biology or a closely related field, which can take about 5-7 years to complete after earning a bachelor's degree. Some positions, especially at community colleges, might accept candidates with a master's degree in biology.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Advanced biology courses to build a strong foundation in the subject.
  • Chemistry, physics, and mathematics to complement biological studies.
  • English and communication courses to develop writing and presentation skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Participate in science clubs or fairs, particularly those focused on biology.
  • Internships or summer programs in scientific research or related fields.
  • Volunteer in environmental or conservation projects.

Preparation after high school

  • Pursue a bachelor's degree in biology or a related scientific field.
  • Engage in undergraduate research projects and internships related to biology.
  • Earn a Ph.D. in a specialized area of biology.
  • Gain teaching experience through graduate teaching assistantships or similar roles.
  • Publish research in academic journals and present at scientific conferences.

More resources

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