Skills, Education and Experience
Skills
Biologists must be:
- patient
- curious
- logical
- organized
- detail oriented
Biologists must have:
- good communication skills
- good manual dexterity
- an aptitude for science and interest in the living world
- strong research skills
Education and Experience
In order to work as a biologist in Canada, you require:
- Bachelor's degree in biology or in a related discipline is required for biologists
- Master's or doctoral degree in biology or a related discipline is required for employment as a research scientist in biology
- Post-doctoral research experience is usually required before employment in academic departments or research institutions.
Sources: WorkBC & Career Cruising
Qualifications
The College of Applied Biology of British Columbia (CAB) offers registration for biologists and allows you to use the title Registered Professional Biologist.
While registration with the CAB is not mandatory to work as a biologist in BC, it is valuable to become certified as it provides formal recognition of your skills and experience to employers.
Biologists in the environmental industry are also encouraged to seek certification by the Environmental Careers Organization Canada (ECO Canada). Certification is available for: Environmental Professional (EP), Environmental Professional In-Training (EPt) and Environmental Auditors.
Microbiologists are encouraged to seek certification by the Canadian College of Microbiologists. The College offers certification as a Registered Microbiologist (RMCCM), Specialist (SCCM), and Academic Research Microbiologist (ARM).
More information:
Internationally Trained Biologists
If you are an internationally trained biologist you must complete a multi-step process to be registered as a Professional Biologist in BC. This includes an assessment of your education and professional credentials.
ECO Canada also offers the Environmental Foreign Talent Development Program (EFTD). Participants take part in a 3-month training and mentorship bootcamp to grow your network, gain a nationally recognized professional certification as an Enviromental Professional (EP) and complete a paid, full-time placement within the environmental sector.
More information: