ANZSCO code 234511

Life Scientist (General)

Description

Studies the origin, anatomy, physiology, reproduction and behaviour of living organisms and the ways in which they interact with the environment in which they live.

Skill Level 1

Occupations at Skill Level 1 have a level of skill commensurate with a bachelor degree or higher qualification. At least five years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualification. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.

• Assessing Authority
  • Vocational Education and Training Assessment Services (VETASSESS)

vetassess@vetassess.com.au Alternative Titles

• Biologist (General)

 Alternative titles are any commonly used alternative title (or titles) for the occupation. These alternative titles have the same meaning as the principal title but may be less commonly used.

Unit Group 2345: Life Scientists

Description

Examine the anatomy, physiology and biochemistry of humans, animals, plants and other living organisms to better understand how living organisms function and interact with each other and the environment in which they live.

Indicative Skill Level

In Australia and New Zealand: Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with a bachelor degree or higher qualification. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification (ANZSCO Skill Level 1). 

Tasks

• Designing and conducting experiments, making observations and measurements, researching information, analysing data, preparing or supervising the preparation of laboratory reports and scientific papers, presenting findings at scientific meetings and conferences, and supervising the work of staff
• Studying the forms and structures of bodily organs and tissues by systematic observation, dissection and microscopic examination
• Investigating the chemical structure and function of living cells and their isolated components, organs and tissues in humans, animals, plants, and micro-organisms
• Examining micro-organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, yeast and their enzymes, and using the knowledge gained to create and develop new, and improve existing, products, materials and processes
• Investigating the effects of environmental factors, such as rainfall, temperature, sunlight, soil, topography and disease, on plant growth
• Planning and undertaking experiments to study, measure and understand marine animals and plants
• Studying the growth and characteristics of micro-organisms, such as bacteria, algae and fungi, and the effects they have on plants, animals and humans to develop medical, veterinary, industrial, environmental and other practical applications
• Investigating the interrelationships between animals in their natural surroundings, in captivity and in laboratories

Other occupations in this Unit Group

• 234513: Biochemist
• 234514: Biotechnologist
• 234515: Botanist
• 234516: Marine Biologist
• 234517: Microbiologist
• 234518: Zoologist
• 234599: Life Scientists nec