Ecology

Ecology is a multidisciplinary discipline that includes biological, chemical, geological, climatological, and meteorological elements. It is the study of how organisms interact with their surroundings. The Ecologist will know how temperature, soil, water, geological processes, natural selection, and species population dynamics affect ecosystems. He’ll be able to calculate the impact of the extinction of a certain species on an ecosystem. Environmentalism is an important topic of research within ecology. The negative ecological impacts of human involvement with the environment, such as global warming, ozone depletion, air and water pollution, acid rain, deforestation, wetland los, solid waste disposal, and toxic chemicals, and other hazardous wastes all are in concern of environmentalists.  Ecologists examine natural interactions, such as how animals, plants, and humans interact with one another. As an ecologist, you’ll frequently run experiments and perform fieldwork, so you’ll need strong analytical abilities. Good IT abilities are also necessary since you’ll be asked to create computer simulations of how human actions, for example, could affect the natural world.

As an ecologist, you could specialise in one of the following areas:

• flora – plants and flowers
• fauna – animals
• marine – sea plants and creatures
• freshwater –  river and lake plants and creatures 

Nature of work

• Develop and test hypotheses about populations, communities, and ecosystem function
• Conduct field, lab, and theoretical research
• Analyze data using statistical models
• Study plant and animal characteristics over time
• Assess the biodiversity of ecosystems and examine influencing factors like pollution
• Provide useful data and advice to internal and external parties
• Use modeling techniques to assess the potential impact of ecosystem changes
• Publish the results of studies and research within the workgroup and throughout the field
• Applying for permits and navigating regulatory processes
• Manage multifaceted projects
• Support strategic initiatives and business development for the region
• Establish productive relationships with clients and partners

How to become an ecologist

To become an ecologist, you’ll need a degree in ecology or a related subject. Having a specific ecology related postgraduate qualification is highly desirable. Related subjects include conservation biology, marine biology, zoology and environmental science. 

For details on universities offering ecology visit, https://www.eduvision.edu.pk/institutions-offering-wildlife-ecology-with-field-biological-life-sciences-at-bachelor-level-in-pakistan-page-1

Job opportunities for ecologist

• Environmental NGOs
• Municipal councils
• Forestry
• Survey Firms
• Conservation scientist
• Research Centers
• Article/ book/ report writing
• Laboratory researcher
• Consultancy firms
• Irrigation ministry
• University and academia

Qualities and skills required

• Passion for serving the environment
• Analytical skills
• Statistical skills
• Teamwork
• Organization skills
• Time management skills
• Computer skills