As a zoology student, a work placement year is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in your field, develop essential skills, and build professional connections. A placement can be a gateway to specialised areas within zoology and related fields, offering insight into various careers you might not have considered. Below, we explore some exciting fields where you can do your placement and the kind of work you can expect to engage in.
1. Wildlife Conservation Organisations
What they do: These organisations work to protect endangered species and preserve habitats. They focus on issues such as biodiversity loss, climate change, and human-wildlife conflict.
Placement activities: You might assist with field research, habitat restoration, species monitoring, or community outreach programs. Tasks could include tagging animals, collecting data on ecosystems, and educating local communities about conservation efforts.
2. Zoos and Aquariums
What they do: Zoos and aquariums focus on the care, management, and breeding of animals, particularly endangered species, while also providing education to the public.
Placement activities: You’ll likely work closely with animal care teams, assisting with feeding, cleaning enclosures, and monitoring animal health. You may also be involved in conservation projects, such as breeding programs or research aimed at improving animal welfare.
3. Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers
What they do: These centers care for injured, orphaned, or sick wild animals with the goal of rehabilitating and releasing them back into the wild.
Placement activities: Expect to assist with the treatment of injured animals, help manage the daily care of patients, and support the rehabilitation process. You may also learn about wildlife medicine and behavioural assessments to determine whether animals are fit for release.
4. Ecotourism Companies
What they do: Ecotourism companies promote responsible travel to natural areas, conserving the environment and benefiting local communities. They often focus on wildlife viewing and environmental education.
Placement activities: Your tasks could include guiding wildlife tours, conducting ecological surveys, or educating tourists on conservation practices. This is a great way to engage in public outreach while experiencing biodiversity first-hand.
5. Environmental Consultancies
What they do: Environmental consultancies offer advice on minimizing environmental impacts for businesses, particularly in construction, agriculture, and land use.
Placement activities: Zoology students may help conduct ecological impact assessments, wildlife surveys, or habitat management plans. You’ll likely be involved in both fieldwork and report writing, learning how to balance development and conservation needs.
6. Academic Research Labs
What they do: Academic institutions conduct research in areas like ecology, behaviour, evolution, and conservation.
Placement activities: Depending on the lab’s focus, you could assist with field research or work in a laboratory setting analyzing data. Common tasks include collecting samples, running experiments, and analysing wildlife population dynamics. It’s a great way to learn about research methods and contribute to scientific studies.
7. Government Agencies
What they do: Government bodies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or local wildlife departments, work on policies and regulations to protect natural resources and wildlife.
Placement activities: You may be involved in species monitoring, helping with biodiversity assessments, or supporting conservation policy development. Placements here provide insight into how science informs policymaking and environmental regulations.
8. Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
What they do: NGOs focused on wildlife and environmental conservation operate across the globe, conducting advocacy, research, and community programs.
Placement activities: Your role could involve field surveys, policy advocacy, educational campaigns, or working on conservation projects. NGOs often address global issues, giving you the chance to participate in large-scale efforts to protect wildlife.
9. Marine Biology and Oceanography Institutes
What they do: These institutions study marine life and ecosystems, focusing on species behaviour, conservation, and the impacts of climate change on oceans.
Placement activities: In marine settings, you could help with underwater surveys, assist with species monitoring (like tracking marine mammals), and contribute to marine conservation efforts. This placement would suit students with an interest in marine ecosystems and aquatic species.
10. Wildlife Photography and Media
What they do: Wildlife photographers and media organisations focus on documenting animal life and conservation efforts, often raising awareness of environmental issues through visual storytelling.
Placement activities: You could assist professional photographers, contribute to wildlife documentaries, or help with conservation media campaigns. This is a unique placement for those interested in combining zoology with creative fields.
Final Thoughts
A work placement year is a vital step in your zoology career, offering practical experience, new skills, and a clearer sense of direction. Whether you’re passionate about field research, animal care, or environmental policy, there are countless opportunities to explore. Make sure to choose a placement that aligns with your interests and long-term goals while challenging you to expand your horizons.