How to become a mammalogist

Is becoming a mammalogist right for me?

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Overview
What do mammalogists do?
Career Satisfaction
Are mammalogists happy with their careers?
Personality
What are mammalogists like?

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How to become a Mammalogist

Becoming a mammalogist involves a combination of education, field experience, and specialization. Here are the general steps you can take to pursue this career:

  • Earn a Bachelor's Degree: Start by obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Zoology, Ecology, or a related field. It's important to take courses that focus on mammalogy, ecology, evolution, and animal behavior during your undergraduate studies.
  • Gain Experience: Gain practical experience through internships, volunteer opportunities, or research assistant positions in mammalogy or related fields. This hands-on experience will help you build important skills and make connections in the field.
  • Continue Education: While a bachelor's degree may be sufficient for some entry-level positions, many mammalogists pursue advanced degrees for specialized roles or research opportunities. Consider earning a Master's or Ph.D. in Mammalogy, Wildlife Biology, or a closely related field to deepen your expertise.
  • Specialize: Mammalogy is a diverse field with many sub-disciplines, such as conservation biology, ecology, genetics, behavior, and taxonomy. Consider specializing in a specific area that aligns with your interests and career goals.
  • Network: Build a professional network by attending conferences, joining professional organizations like the American Society of Mammalogists, and connecting with professionals in the field. Networking can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship.
  • Gain Field Experience: Mammalogists often spend time conducting fieldwork to study mammals in their natural habitats. Seek opportunities to participate in field research projects or expeditions to gain experience working with different species and ecosystems.
  • Job Search: Once you have the necessary education and experience, start searching for job openings in academia, government agencies, non-profit organizations, museums, or consulting firms that specialize in mammalogy, wildlife biology, or conservation.
  • Professional Development: Consider pursuing certifications or additional training to enhance your skills and credibility as a mammalogist. This might include certifications in wildlife biology, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), or specialized research techniques.

Organizations and Associations
There are several organizations and associations dedicated to the field of mammalogy. These organizations provide resources, networking opportunities, and support for professionals and enthusiasts interested in the study of mammals. Here are some notable ones:

  • American Society of Mammalogists (ASM): The ASM is one of the primary professional organizations for mammalogists. It promotes the study of mammals through research, education, publications, and conservation initiatives.
  • Society for Marine Mammalogy (SMM): The SMM focuses on the study and conservation of marine mammals globally. It connects scientists, educators, and policymakers to advance knowledge and protection of marine mammal species.
  • The Wildlife Society (TWS): TWS is a professional organization for wildlife biology, including mammalogy. It offers networking, professional development, publications, and certification for wildlife professionals.
  • Ecological Society of America (ESA): The ESA covers a wide range of ecological topics, including mammalogy. It hosts conferences, publishes scientific journals, and supports ecological research and education.

Certifications
There are several certifications and training programs that can enhance your skills and credibility in the field. Here are some options to consider:

  • Wildlife Biologist Certification: The Wildlife Society offers certification for wildlife biologists, including Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB) and Associate Wildlife Biologist (AWB) designations. These credentials, while not specific to mammalogy, demonstrate expertise in wildlife science and can support career growth.
  • GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Certification: GIS skills are valuable in mammalogy for mapping habitats, tracking animal movements, and conducting spatial analyses. Earning GIS certification can improve your technical abilities and employability.
  • Wilderness First Aid Certification: Fieldwork often takes place in remote locations with limited medical access. A wilderness first aid certification ensures preparedness for emergencies and is sometimes required by employers.
  • Animal Handling and Capture Training: If working directly with live mammals in research or conservation, specialized training in animal handling, capture methods, and chemical immobilization is essential for both safety and compliance with ethical standards.