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How to Become A Life Scientist

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What is a Life Scientist

A Life Scientist studies living organisms to understand how they work and how they affect the world around them. It is one of the most varied science careers in Australia. Specialisations include microbiology, marine biology, biochemistry and zoology.

Every day, Life Scientists run experiments, collect observations and analyse results. They write lab reports and scientific papers, and share findings at conferences. Some also lead lab teams and mentor junior scientists.

The work happens in labs, research centres and in the field. No two weeks look exactly alike. Life Scientists contribute to key research in healthcare, agriculture and environmental science.

If you love asking why and how about the living world, this career is built for you. With the right education and experience, you can work on problems that truly matter. Research into disease, biodiversity and food systems all need skilled Life Scientists.

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Career Outlook for Life Scientist

Life Science is a well-established career field across Australia. According to Jobs and Skills Australia (2025), around 9,700 people are employed as Life Scientists nationally. The workforce is highly qualified: 54% hold a postgraduate qualification and 38% hold a bachelor degree (ABS Census, 2021). The median age is 41, and 65% of Life Scientists are women.

Most Life Scientists work full-time, with 76% in full-time roles averaging 42 hours per week. Median full-time weekly earnings are $1,544, or around $80,000 per year (ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2025). Employment growth has been relatively flat, with a projected change of around -100 positions annually. This means the field is stable rather than rapidly expanding.

Victoria has the highest share of Life Scientists (29%), followed by New South Wales (22%) and Western Australia (13%). The three main sectors employing Life Scientists are professional and scientific services, healthcare and education. For those willing to specialise and pursue postgraduate study, the career offers long-term stability and meaningful work.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Life Scientist

Step 1: Complete a bachelor’s degree in a biological science

Enrol in a Bachelor of Science with a major in biology, biochemistry, microbiology, marine biology or a related field. Most programs take 3 years full-time at an Australian university. Core subjects cover cell biology, genetics, chemistry and ecology. This degree is the entry requirement for almost all Life Scientist roles in Australia.

Step 2: Build practical laboratory experience during your degree

Seek out research internships, vacation research programs or lab assistant roles while you study. Many universities and research institutes offer structured programs for undergraduates. Aim for at least one placement before you graduate. Hands-on lab experience is one of the strongest additions to your CV.

Step 3: Complete an honours year or postgraduate qualification

Most research and senior Life Scientist roles require study beyond a bachelor’s degree. A Bachelor of Science Honours (1 year full-time) is the most common next step. It opens doors to competitive research roles. For specialist positions, a Master of Science (1-2 years full-time) may be required. Academic research roles often need a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD, 3-4 years full-time). According to Jobs and Skills Australia (2025), 54% of Life Scientists hold a postgraduate qualification.

Step 4: Join a professional body and grow your network

Register with a relevant professional association such as the Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) or AusBiotech. Membership gives you access to conferences, peer networks and industry news. Attending national and state-level scientific events is one of the best ways to build professional connections.

Step 5: Apply for entry-level roles and specialise over time

With your degree and practical experience, apply for graduate or research assistant positions. Key sectors include healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and environmental agencies. As you grow in the role, consider specialising in an area like microbiology, marine biology or biotechnology. Many Life Scientists also take on supervisory roles as their careers develop.

What does a Life Scientist do?

Life Scientists spend their days running experiments, taking measurements and analysing data to understand the biology of living things. They study everything from how cells work to how animals interact in the wild. On any given day, they might examine micro-organisms under a microscope. They could also investigate what affects plant growth, or plan a marine research expedition. They write up findings in lab reports and scientific papers, and present at conferences. Many also lead lab teams and help junior scientists grow their skills. It is hands-on, intellectually rich work that takes you from the bench to the field.

Tasks

Life Scientists explore the biology of living organisms and their environments. Their research has real-world applications in health, agriculture and conservation. Here are the core tasks they carry out every day.

  • Designing and conducting experiments – Life Scientists create and run tests to gather data and explore how living things work.
  • Studying bodily structures – They examine organs and tissues through observation, dissection and microscopy.
  • Investigating cellular functions – They explore the chemical structure and roles of living cells and their components.
  • Examining micro-organisms – They study bacteria, fungi and yeast to develop new products and improve existing processes.
  • Assessing environmental impacts – They investigate how factors like temperature and rainfall affect plant growth and ecosystem health.
  • Conducting marine research – They plan and run studies to understand marine organisms and their habitats.
  • Researching micro-organism effects – They study how micro-organisms affect plants, animals and humans.
  • Exploring animal interactions – They investigate how animals behave and relate to each other in natural and controlled environments.

Skills for Success

To succeed as a Life Scientist, you need strong analytical skills and a sharp eye for detail. Experiments must be designed carefully and data interpreted accurately. Small errors can lead to big problems in results.

You will also need to communicate clearly. That means writing lab reports and scientific papers, and presenting your work at conferences. Teamwork is a big part of the job too, since most research is done with other scientists.

Problem-solving and critical thinking help you work through challenges in the lab and the field. A solid foundation in biology, chemistry and environmental science sets you up for this career. Most Life Scientists back this with a degree or higher qualification.

Skills & Attributes

  • Analytical thinking and data interpretation
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking
  • Written and verbal communication
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Time management and organisation
  • Proficiency in laboratory techniques and equipment
  • Knowledge of biological systems and processes
  • Research design and data analysis
  • Adaptability and commitment to learning
  • Scientific reasoning and ethical judgement
  • Ability to work independently
  • Project management
  • Familiarity with scientific software and data tools

Average Salaries

Life Scientists in Australia earn a median full-time salary of around $80,000 per year (ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2025, cited by Jobs and Skills Australia). Entry-level roles for new graduates typically start at around $65,000 per year. Senior and specialist Life Scientists can earn $120,000 or more.

min $65 K

max $130 K

av $80 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.