Biologe/Biologin

To learn more about this profession, you can explore information provided by the Bundesagentur für Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency). Resources include films like 'Film Biologie' and 'Biologie in unserer Zeit', journals such as 'BIOspektrum' and 'Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences', guides like 'Deine Zukunft: Biowissenschaften', and online study guides for 'Bachelor/Master in den Biowissenschaften'. Further publications include 'PLOS Biology', 'Spektrum der Wissenschaft', 'The Science of Nature - Naturwissenschaften', and 'vifabio - virtuelle Fachbibliothek Biologie'.

Tissue Engineering deals with the artificial production of organic tissues. The goal is to restore, maintain, or replace biological tissue. The human body is not always able to heal or regenerate diseased or dead tissue on its own. In the modern therapy and healing method of Tissue Engineering, tissue cells are taken and multiplied in vitro in the laboratory, then reinserted into the body. The cultivation of artificial cartilage and heart valves has already been successfully implemented. For researchers in biomedicine and specialists in medical technology, this development will play an important role in the future.

The following interests are important and helpful for success in this academic profession. The interests are listed in order of their importance. Activities are mentioned for illustration for each area of interest. Interest in theoretical-abstract activities, e.g., developing genetic engineering research projects or investigating metabolic processes in microorganisms. Interest in organizational-auditing activities, e.g., evaluating cell cultures under a microscope.

Biologists primarily work in laboratories, in office and meeting rooms, in production halls, in lecture halls and seminar rooms. They also work outdoors, for example, on agricultural or horticultural experimental plots or in animal enclosures, and in animal stables. Additionally, they may also work from a home office or remotely.

Core competencies acquired or deepened during the Studium (university studies) include: Bacteriology, Biology, Bioprinting, Botany, Development, Research, Genetics, Laboratory Work and Techniques, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Ecology, Experimentation and Evaluation, Virology, Cell Biology, Zoology. Further competencies that may be significant for practicing this profession include: Anthropology, Species Protection, Species Protection Law, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Creating Professional Publications, Genetic Engineering, Expert/Appraiser Activities, Human Biology, Customer Consulting and Support, Teaching Activities (University), Marine Biology, Marine Protection, Molecular Agriculture, Nature Conservation, Patent and Trademark Law, Product Management, Project Management, Proof of Expertise according to the Plant Protection Expertise Ordinance, Toxicology, Environmental Analysis, Environmental Consulting, Environmental Monitoring, Environmental Education, Environmental Law, Behavioral Biology, Experimental Design, Presentation Activities, Scientific Documentation.

The advancing digitalization of the working and professional world can change task areas and requirement profiles. Biologists may have the opportunity to engage with the following technologies, processes, or systems: 3-D Printing (e.g., producing human cells in a 3-D printer for experimental series), 3-D Simulation (e.g., visualizing plant growth using 3-D simulations), Bioprinting (e.g., researching new applications of bioprinting; optimizing bio-inks and printing processes; cultivating and developing cell cultures for bioprinting), Blended Learning (e.g., preparing teaching material for the combination of virtual learning settings and in-person events), Digital Whiteboard (e.g., using an interactive, digital whiteboard during university lectures), Laboratory Information Systems - LIS (e.g., analyzing DNA strands with networked laboratory equipment), Massive Open Online Course - MOOC (e.g., conducting online courses at a university), Numerical Simulation.

Biologists prepare environmental analytical reports, coordinate international breeding programs, or engage in plant breeding. This requires a high degree of responsibility and a meticulous working style. Laboratory investigations demand precise observation, dexterity, concentration, and perseverance. When examining the molecular structure and cellular components, biologists need analytical thinking skills. They utilize their organizational and planning abilities when coordinating biotope mapping. If they work as lecturers at universities, they also apply current pedagogical and subject-specific didactic knowledge, measuring the quality of their teaching by student progress and feedback. Good communication skills are essential for interdisciplinary collaboration with representatives from other disciplines and for advising citizens and businesses on environmental protection issues.

Biologists can work freelance, especially in the field of environmental planning, for example, as experts, project managers, or consultants.

Example gross basic remuneration in the public service collective bargaining area (monthly): €4,489 to €6,765. Example gross basic remuneration in the commercial sector (monthly): €5,473 to €6,439. Sources: Collective Agreement for the Public Service of the States (TV-L), Collective Agreement Collection of the Bavarian State Ministry for Family, Labor and Social Affairs. This information is for orientation purposes only; no claims can be derived from it.

Universities, Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen), Professional and Specialist Academies. Further education, schools for professional development. Vocational schools. Post-secondary, non-tertiary education in healthcare schools. Natural, engineering, agricultural sciences and medicine. Other research and development in natural, engineering, agricultural sciences and medicine, e.g., research and development laboratories at pharmaceutical companies, Max Planck Institutes, biomedical research institutes. Research and development in biotechnology. Pharmacy. Manufacture of pharmaceutical specialties and other pharmaceutical products. Chemistry. Manufacture of pesticides, plant protection products, and disinfectants. Manufacture of fertilizers and nitrogen compounds. Healthcare. Hospitals, e.g., research and examination laboratories, neurobiological departments and research projects. Leisure industry, entertainment, botanical gardens.

Those wishing to work in this profession typically need a completed undergraduate degree (grundständig) in biology. Leadership positions or specialized tasks usually require a master's degree (Masterstudium). Activities in science and research often require a doctorate (Promotion) or habilitation (Habilitation).

Biology (undergraduate), Biology (postgraduate)

Biologists primarily find employment in universities and research institutes, in pharmaceutical and chemical industry companies, in healthcare (e.g., in hospital laboratories), in botanical and zoological gardens and nature parks, and in public administration (e.g., environmental agencies). Additionally, they can also find employment in natural history museums.

Biologist. Professional title in English: Biologist (m/f). Professional titles in French: Biologiste (m/f), Chercheur/Chercheuse en biologie.

For independent work in plant protection, proof of expertise for the application of plant protection products is required. This is usually obtained with a successful university degree (Studium). Those who work with pathogens of notifiable animal diseases require permission from the competent authority. The required expertise is usually demonstrated by a successful university degree (Studium) and three years of relevant professional experience. For working as a project manager in genetic engineering facilities, the necessary expertise must be demonstrated by an advanced university degree in a relevant field, appropriate professional practice, and participation in a further training event recognized by the competent state (Bundesland) authority.

Some characteristics of work and social behavior are equally relevant for all professions and are therefore not mentioned separately. These include reliability, punctuality, honesty, ability to criticize, and appropriate manners. In addition, the following profession-specific characteristics are required to practice this university (Studium) profession: willingness to perform and commit (e.g., willingness to actively and dedicatedly take on additional, technically demanding laboratory and monitoring tasks during work bottlenecks), perseverance/determination (e.g., persistently working on the research of new biomedical active ingredients and their industrial producibility despite setbacks), conscientiousness (e.g., error-free planning and execution of experimental series in the laboratory), independent way of working (e.g., independently preparing reports, statements, and expert opinions).

In research, biologists investigate, for example, structures and processes in humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms, or work in the production of pharmaceutical products, product development, quality assurance, sales, or environmental protection.

analytik.de, Biologie.de, BiologyJobs.com, BioM, Deutsche Zoologische Gesellschaft e.V., Environmentjob.co.uk, greenjobs.de, hum-molgen, inVitro+Jobs - Das Portal für tierversuchsfreie Forschung, jobvector, life-science Karriere Services, nature careers, SciTechCareer, Stellenmarkt-Umweltschutz.de, WILA-Arbeitsmarkt.

There are various professional associations and organizations for biologists. These include the Professional Association of German Biologists (BDBiol), the German Research Foundation (DFG), the German Society of Human Genetics (GfH), the Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (GBM), the VBIO Association of Biology, Biosciences and Biomedicine in Germany, the VDI-Society Technologies of Life Sciences (VDI-TLS), and ver.di - United Services Union.

Biologists may have responsibility for individuals (e.g., in the approval and registration of medicines) and for assets (e.g., in environmental analysis). They perform precision and fine work (e.g., precisely concentrating chemical solutions). They have customer contact (e.g., as pharmaceutical representatives advising doctors and research institutions on new medications and medical apparatus). They engage in production-oriented work with animals and manual work (e.g., setting up experimental apparatus). They work with technical devices, machines, and systems (e.g., testing devices and laboratory equipment). They perform screen work (e.g., processing newly acquired data) and handle plants. They wear protective clothing and equipment (e.g., when in contact with genetically modified seeds in laboratories of the food and beverage industry). They work in laboratories (e.g., conducting and evaluating biotechnological experiments), outdoors (e.g., in botanical gardens), and in offices (e.g., preparing expert opinions, performing administrative tasks). They also handle chemicals.

Professional deployment opportunities for biologists are structured according to fields of activity. These include laboratory analysis, laboratory management, toxicology, lecturing at universities, lecturing at universities and academies, study program coordination, quality assurance and management, leadership in quality management, quality management, leadership in quality assurance, process and product development, leadership in research and development, medical advising, product development, clinical studies referencing (CRA), regulatory affairs management, approval responsibility, and scientific research. Within scientific research, they can work as agricultural biologists, biological anthropologists, research references, geneticists, human biologists, research group leaders, molecular biologists, and behavioral researchers.

Objects of investigation for biologists include microorganisms, cell cultures, gene sequences, laboratory animals, plants, and pharmaceuticals. Laboratory equipment and accessories include microscopes, centrifuges, spectrometers, chromatographs, sequencing robots, measuring and testing instruments, reaction vessels, and pipettes. They work with chemical substances such as nutrient solutions, acids, alkalis, and disinfectants. They may use facilities and equipment like feed or irrigation systems and animal shelters. They deal with documents such as experimental protocols, training and lecture materials, environmental analytical reports, biotope plans, and hygiene, safety, and environmental protection regulations. They also use office equipment such as PCs, internet access, and telephones.

Biologists work in various fields. In research, they are active in areas such as genetic engineering, microbiology, pharmacology, or toxicology, and publish their findings. At universities, they conduct lectures and administer examinations. In the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, they develop products, optimize existing pharmaceuticals, and participate in the approval of new medicines. In sales, they advise doctors on pharmaceutical products and take on tasks in environmental management or environmental protection.

Continuing education for adaptation helps to keep professional knowledge current and to adapt to new developments. These trainings can be in areas such as biology, biotechnology, environmental and nature protection, or research and development.

Advanced vocational training (Aufstiegsweiterbildung), specifically designed for university graduates, builds upon existing qualifications. It offers the opportunity to expand one's competence profile and enhance career prospects (e.g., through further training as a specialist in human genetics). Bachelor's graduates can improve their professional and career opportunities by pursuing further studies (weiterführendes Studium), for example, in Biology, Biotechnology, or Environmental Science. A doctorate (Promotion) is generally required for a scientific career at a university; to be appointed as a university professor, a habilitation (Habilitation) is usually needed. A doctorate may also facilitate access to higher professional positions in the private sector, in research, and in public administration.

Plan and execute research projects, e.g., in genetic engineering, microbiology, molecular biology, pharmacology. Apply biotechnological methods, e.g., grow and cultivate plants from genetically modified seeds. Develop concepts for agriculture and forestry, e.g., for environmentally sound cultivation, site-appropriate management. In science and teaching, participate in research projects and write reports. Conduct lectures, if necessary, administer exams, supervise thesis and doctoral candidates. In development and production, develop processing and testing procedures, transfer and adapt production and processing procedures developed in the laboratory to industrial large-scale production. Improve products, seek new applications for existing products, develop new products. Monitor production processes regarding quality, environmental compatibility, and business economic requirements. If necessary, develop and document validation activities to ensure quality standards.

The following additional employment alternatives are available for biologists: Scientific Research Field, Biochemist, Biotechnological Engineer, Agricultural Scientist / Agricultural Economist, Horticultural Scientist, Bionics Engineer, Pharmaceutical Technology Engineer, Food Chemist, Environmental Scientist. Commonalities: conducting biological measurements, analyses, and laboratory tests; setting up experimental apparatus and conducting experiments, documenting results. Note: The mentioned job alternatives may require a longer induction period or additional training.

What is it about? In scientific research, biologists investigate, for example, structures and processes in humans, animals, plants, and microorganisms. They can also work in the production of pharmaceutical products, in product development, quality assurance, in sales and customer consulting, or in environmental protection. In scientific research and teaching, they conduct investigations on and with living organisms. For example, they study the molecular structure and organization of cell components as well as metabolic processes in microorganisms and animal or plant cells. The goal is, for instance, to find out which gene sequences are altered in a disease. Based on the results, drugs or vaccines that target these altered sites can also be developed. Nanotechnology plays a pioneering role in this area. Biologists research the possibilities of using it in the analysis of biomolecules.

The following abilities, knowledge, and skills are required for performing possible activities in this academic profession. Abilities: Numerical (computational) thinking (e.g., applying statistical methods and model building to describe molecular processes). Figural-spatial thinking (e.g., understanding the structure and interaction of complex molecules or the spatial structure of molecular compounds). Technical understanding (e.g., use of complex testing devices and laboratory equipment). Ability to plan and organize (e.g., planning and coordinating series of experiments and breeding programs).

Act on the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases in Humans (Infection Protection Act - IfSG), last amended by Article 3 Para. 1 of the Act of 04.03.2026 (BGBl. 2026 I No. 60). Plant Protection Expert Ordinance (PflSchSachkV), amended by Article 376 of the Act of 31.08.2015 (BGBl. I S. 1474). Ordinance on Working with Animal Pathogens (Animal Pathogen Ordinance - TierSeuchErV) of 25.11.1985 (BGBl. I S. 2123), last amended by Article 8 of the Ordinance of 31.03.2020 (BGBl. I S. 752). Ordinance on Safety and Health Protection for Activities with Biological Agents (Biostoffverordnung - BioStoffV) (Article 1 of the Ordinance) of 15.07.2013 (BGBl. I S. 2514), last amended by Article 3 of the Ordinance of 02.12.2024 (BGBl. 2024 I No. 384). Ordinance on Safety Levels and Safety Measures for Genetic Engineering Work in Genetic Engineering Facilities (Gentechnik-Sicherheitsverordnung - GenTSV) promulgated as Article 1 of the Ordinance.

The profession of a biologist may involve the following physical requirements. These details do not necessarily apply to every job profile or professional application. Robust health (e.g., working outdoors in botanical gardens or animal enclosures, or in air-conditioned rooms), functional arms and hands (e.g., setting up experimental apparatus in the lab; taking water samples), fine motor skills of hands and fingers (e.g., handling pipettes and sensitive lab equipment), unimpaired speech (e.g., advising businesses and citizens on environmental protection issues), near vision – even corrected (e.g., processing newly acquired data on screen), color vision (e.g., recognizing color changes in experiments or procedures), hearing and speech comprehension (e.g., understanding follow-up questions in drug counseling), intact sense of smell and taste (e.g., conducting smell tests), intact sense of touch, intact temperature perception (e.g., assessing surface structures).

The following lists professions or activities that show similarities to the initial profession. These professions represent a possible alternative for applicants who cannot find a vacant position in their learned profession. Furthermore, employers can consider specialists from these professions as alternatives for filling a position in the initial profession. Some alternative professions only comprise partial activities of the initial profession, others require an induction period, which can vary in length in individual cases. The following immediate employment and staffing alternatives are available for the profession of biologist: Job and staffing alternatives for professional specializations (usually short induction): agricultural biologist, marine biologist, microbiologist, molecular biologist; for partial activities and professional application possibilities (with/without induction): biological anthropologist, human biologist.

The activity as a biologist is not regulated in Germany. To work in this profession with a qualification acquired abroad, no professional recognition is necessary. However, it is possible to apply for an individual certificate evaluation for foreign university degrees through the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB). This can be helpful for applications in the German labor market. Further information on living and working in Germany: Hotline 'Working and Living in Germany' - central information hotline of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) and the Federal Employment Agency (BA); 'For people from abroad' - an information offer from the Federal Employment Agency; Central Foreign and Specialist Placement of the Federal Employment Agency; 'Make it in Germany' - the welcome portal of the skilled workers initiative for international skilled workers.

The following health limitations could lead to problems when performing the profession. These details do not necessarily apply to every job profile or professional application. Increasingly, there are also possibilities to compensate for limitations, for example, through technical aids. Susceptibility to infection, chronic infectious diseases (e.g., working outdoors in botanical gardens or animal enclosures, or in air-conditioned rooms), impaired arm and hand function (e.g., setting up experimental apparatus in the lab; taking water samples), impaired fine motor skills of hands and fingers (e.g., handling pipettes and sensitive lab equipment), speech disorder, speech impediment (e.g., advising businesses and citizens on environmental protection issues), uncorrectable poor near vision (e.g., processing newly acquired data on screen), color vision deficiencies (e.g., recognizing color changes in experiments or procedures), hearing impairment.

The following additional staffing alternatives are available for the profession of biologist from an employer's perspective: Field of activity Scientific Research: biochemist, agricultural scientist / agricultural economist, horticultural scientist, veterinarian, pharmacist, physician. Commonalities: conducting biological measurements, analyses, and laboratory tests; setting up experimental apparatus and conducting experiments, documenting results. Note: The mentioned staffing alternatives may require an induction period, which can vary in length in individual cases.