Biologiste

A biologiste is a scientist who studies living organisms and their relations to each other and to their environments. In French-speaking countries, biologiste is the standard term for a professional working in the field of biology, equivalent to the English "biologist".

Education typically requires university study in biology or a related field. Most biologistes hold at least a bachelor's degree; many pursue master's or doctoral degrees to conduct independent research or to work in academia, industry, or public institutions. Training combines coursework, laboratory work, and field observations, with specialization in a subfield.

Subfields include ecology, genetics, molecular biology, physiology, microbiology, botany, zoology, paleontology, and biotechnology. Biologistes may work in research, education, healthcare, environmental management, agriculture, or conservation. Their tasks include designing and conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, interpreting results, writing reports and papers, teaching, and supervising students or technicians.

Work environments vary from universities and public laboratories to hospitals, environmental agencies, and private industry. In many countries, biologiste roles in regulated areas may require adherence to professional standards and ethical guidelines, including fieldwork permissions, animal care, and biosafety.

The term and professional pathways differ by country, reflecting the history and organization of biology as a discipline. The broad aim is to understand living systems to advance knowledge, health, and sustainability.