Conservation Geneticist

A career path in conservation biology can be taken in many different directions, many of which are not centered around genetics. In general, the science of conservation biology draws upon many traditional academic disciplines, combining them in a science dedicated to maintaining Earth's biodiversity. In recent years, however, genetics has taken on an increasingly important role in the field, for a genetic approach can be used to address questions concerning conservation of populations, species, and their habitats.

A Variety of Career Directions

Conservation biologists, and more specifically conservation geneticists or molecular ecologists, are often multi-disciplinary scientists who combine training in ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation, and molecular biology. This unique combination of skills enables these scientists to design field studies aimed at collecting biological specimens needed for research involving genetics, or to advise others who are planning such studies.

Genetics-based conservation involves both research and the implementation of that research's findings. Some conservation geneticists focus their research on identifying natural population units for conservation based on genetic criteria, in an effort to maximize genetic diversity. Others seek to establish taxonomical or population priorities for conservation efforts. Alternatively, a conservation geneticist may monitor trade in endangered species, guide captive-breeding programs, or work on the re-introduction of selected species to habitats from which they are in danger of disappearing. Results from their studies are often central for management decisions regarding the viability and protection of threatened or endangered populations and the designation of critical habitats for conservation.

The discovery of the polymerase chain reaction has enabled conservation biologists to study endangered or threatened species and their habitats in ways that were previously unimaginable. The use of non-invasively collected samples, such as feces or hair, enables the conservation geneticist to acquire an extraordinary amount of information about life history, demography, distribution, and diversity of rare species without directly observing them. In addition to such studies, with research drawn from skilled geneticists, ecologists, and behavioral biologists, conservation geneticists are now faced with a new set of hightech approaches derived from the emerging field of genomics. The challenge for these biologists will be to evaluate whether these advanced technologies can be used effectively to promote biodiversity, conservation, and habitat protection.

Becoming a Conservation Biologist

To begin a career in conservation biology, a student should expect to carry out advanced study in one or more of the relevant sciences at the graduate level. Many researchers have completed doctorates in biology, genetics, or conservation, followed by several years of post doctoral training. Projects that are initiated as part of graduate work may develop into entire research programs in this field.

The key to success for a conservation geneticist goes far beyond designing and carrying out a research program. Equally important is how the program implements the results of that research, and it is often this implementation that is used as a benchmark in evaluating the program's value. Research in this discipline may be carried out at academic centers, museums, nongovernmental organizations, and government institutions.

The rewards of a career in conservation biology are many. First, the multidisciplinary approach affords a researcher the chance to develop a unique background and breadth of diverse skills. Second, the work has a direct and clearly visible value for biodiversity conservation programs. Salaries for a conservation geneticist depend on the researcher's level of education and the type of institution in which he or she works, but most are comparable to the salaries offered to biology professors teaching at the university level.

Howard C. Rosenbaum

and Rob DeSalle

Bibliography

Gerber, Leah R., Douglas P. DeMaster, and Simona P. Roberts. "Measuring Success in Conservation." American Scientist 88 (2000) 4: 316-324.