I want to have a career in marine life conservation, what steps should be taken?
I’m a jr in high school, and I want to start a career in marine conservation, more specifically sea turtles. I’m not entirely sure what steps I should take as far as what i should major in and where to really get started. I have done research, and it seems pretty obvious that I should get a degree in conservation and wildlife management, biology, or the like but I’m not entirely sure what to do from this point. Also, are there any recommendations on colleges for this area of study?
Well marine biology is obviously a good place to start! Have you checked out some marine biology career info sites?
http://www.noc.soton.ac.uk/PR/schools4.h…
http://hopkins.stanford.edu/careers.htm
http://marinebio.org/MarineBio/Careers/
One thing you need to realise is that you will probably have quite a lot of non animal bits in your undergrad course, that is algae, bacteria, oceanic processes both chemical and physical. So it’s probably a good thing if you minor in animal science to give you a bit more focus on the animal side!
Just in short some career opportunities:
Marine and Freshwater Biologists work mainly with sea plants and animals. Freshwater biologists work on lakes and rivers or for water companies and environmental agencies researching areas such as pollution concerns and depleted fish stocks resulting from over fishing.
Marine Rescue charitable organisations work to rescue and rehabilitate stranded, sick or injured marine animals – such as dolphin rescue. Their work is particularly important during natural disasters and organisations can require extra help at these times.
Careers in Aquariums involve a wide range of animal care, conservation and other positions. Most positions require at least a four-year degree in biology, zoology, or a related field, and practical knowledge and hands-on experience.
Aquarist is a popular hands-on, entry level career based in an aquarium environment. It involves having responsibility for the freshwater and marine aquatic systems. The work requires a lot of cleaning as well as feeding, monitoring animal health and water quality, setting up and maintaining new exhibits, and observing the behaviour of wild animals in the aquarium to ensure that they are living in as close to natural environment as possible.
Aquarium Supervisor is responsible for managing the aquarist team and overseeing the details of daily activities. This work involves recruiting and training new employees and ensuring the work is carried out efficiently so that the animals are well cared for and that high standards of cleanliness are maintained.
Curator is responsible for designing and promoting exhibits, overseeing the daily duties of curatorial staff, training of aquarist staff and keeping accurate records. A minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in biology or a related field is required, as well as management training and experience of managing a team. A scuba diving qualification, thorough knowledge of local marine life and experience in caring for marine animals is essential.
Naturalists are educational specialists, their work involves teach aquarium visitors about marine science and ocean conservation. Naturists study saltwater plants and animals and how they relate to their environment.
Herpetologists study and provide information about reptiles and amphibians including snakes, lizards, frogs, alligators, turtles and other reptilian and amphibious creatures. The work involves conducting research, observing general behaviour, conducting food supply studies and sometimes even searching for new species.
Water Quality Technicians are responsible for monitoring aquarium water and ensuring high standards are maintained. Technicians receive training in using laboratory equipment to monitor aquarium water for dissolved oxygen levels, ammonia levels, nitrate levels, temperature, and salinity. They work with aquarist staff to ensure that the water composition is both healthy and safe for aquarium animals.
Other marine related careers include: marine educator, science writer, filmmaker, photographer, ecotourism guide, park ranger, beach superintendent, maritime or environmental lawyer, coastal or ocean policy experts, aquavet (veterinarians that specialize in marine or aquatic animals), economist, marine archaeologist, marine historian, fundraiser or spokesperson, aquaculturist, manager of an agency specializing in marine or freshwater issues, marina manager, ship’s captain or mate, environmental planner, manager of a land conservation organization or land trust, botanist, computer specialist with a marine or environmental organization, ecologist, hatchery specialist, landscape or maritime architect,etc.
Other aquarium careers include administration staff, such as : Assistant Director, Personnel Director, Finance Director and general office staff, veterinary team, volunteer co-ordinator, fundraising director, gift shop/facilities manager.
http://www.animal-job.co.uk/marine-caree…
For specific opportunities in marine mammals and some more links see:
http://cetaceanchatter.blogspot.com/