Expert: Walter Hintz - 4/3/2008

Question
I’m currently studying molecular biology at university, but my real dream is to work as a researcher in a group of biologists/explorators who travel around the world in order to study and care about animals and plants, observing their ways of life, habits, habitats. One of those groups of people who spend their life in forests with gorillas or in the ocean with whales and sharks. With those people who smile in front of a spider instead of killing him. With those people who work to preserve the fragile equilibrium of nature. This is my dream since I was 7 and I still wish with all my heart that one day it would become reality. I don’t care how much it will cost, I know I have to pursue this desire.
So, my questions are: is there any chance for a molecular biologist like I will become, to strike at this target? What are the roles a molecular biologist could have in such groups? How could I get in contact with that kind of people?
Thank you for your answers. (I know maybe this is not your area of interest, but there are still no experts in the category “Careers: biology”)

Giulia, Italy  

Answer
Good for you Giulia. The field biologist is becoming a dying breed as many young biologists are opting to hang around the lab.  I see no reason why a molecular biologist cannot find a spot in the outdoor world. In order to understand living things the study of cellular biology is important.  With the advent of DNA we can gain greater understanding of ecology and evolution. Unfortunately I cannot tell you what steps you should take in order to do what you want.  Try to find some field researchers to talk to.
At present I am a college teacher in biological science but bastically I  feel I am a field biologist.  My advanced degrees were in freshwater biology. In recent years I have traveled to the Galapagos and to the rain forest.  It is a jungle that I feel the most comfortable.