• Marine biologists study ocean organisms and have a variety of employment options.ocean image by avtosak from Fotolia.com
  
  Marine biologists study organisms that inhabit the world's oceans. These organisms can range from cetaceans and sharks to viruses and bacteria. Marine biologists examine the symbiotic relationships that such organisms have with their environment, with each other, and how interactions between them and humans affect both parties and the marine environment. The career options open to those who have studied marine biology are numerous.
  
  

University Research

• Many graduates of marine biology continue working in the academic field. Universities are often where the most cutting-edge research occurs. It is likely that work within university research institutions will involve desk, laboratory and field work.
  
  

Government Research

• Government agencies, such as departments of fisheries and departments of the environment, also employ marine biologists to undertake research. This research will often be more focused on problem-solving, tackling a specific issue within the remit of the department, than that in universities. However, like university research, it will involve a combination of time in the laboratory, in the office and field study.
  
  

Teaching

• Marine biologists who are employed by universities to conduct research may often be asked to undertake some teaching duties as well (or, at least, present research reports to students). Marine biologists can also become teachers on a full-time basis. However, a teaching qualification is usually required alongside a degree in marine biology. Marine biologists may also find work on teaching programs in natural history museums.
  
  

NGOs

• NGOs (Non-Governmental Organization) also employ marine biologists. Charities and lobbying groups often seek individuals to provide data and professional exegesis to substantiate their campaigns. Given that NGOs do not receive federal money, the pay is likely to be less than in other career options. However, working for an NGO can give marine biologists a chance to pursue a particular area of interest.
  
  

Scientific Media

• Marine biologists keen to combine their scientific knowledge with other areas of interest such as writing or journalism may find employment with scientific media. These can vary from companies producing textbooks for educational establishments to popular science magazines such as National Geographic.
  
  

Forensic Science

• One area of work that may not be immediately apparent as an option for marine biologists is forensic work. The specific knowledge that marine biologists have with regard to the effect of marine organisms on humans or material objects can prove extremely useful in certain types of criminal investigation.