Cell Biologists study cells and how they are formed. As a Cell Biologist you use microscopy and molecular approaches to understand how organisms develop, how they respond to their environment, and how the diseased state differs from the healthy state. It also studies the healthy state of a cell versus the diseased state.
Cell biologists use both microscopes and molecular approaches (using elemental units to analyse data) in order to understand how organisms develop and their responses to their environment.
Cell biologists work in varied industries including as researchers in health, pharmacology, biotechnology, food and nutrition, and even agriculture. Cell biologists work in research institutes such as universities and hospitals, in forensic science labs, as educators, in technical writing, as consultants to business and government and also as genetic counsellors.
Cell Biology
Cell Biology is the study which explores how cells act both in isolation, and as part of complex tissues on a molecular and microscopic level. An understanding of cell biology is important in many areas of study, for the cell is the building block of all living forms.
Students of this major study cells; the systems, parts, and processes within cells; and the way cells work. Courses include cell biology, cell chemistry, and molecular biology (the study of how molecules, such as enzymes, work in the body).
Cells perform complicated processes, such as taking in nutrients, getting rid of waste, and interacting with other cells.
In cell biology, you’ll study the cell as the basic unit of life. You will learn about the processes that all types of cells perform, but you will also look at specific functions and capabilities of particular types of cells, like blood cells or nerve cells. Much of your work will involve basic chemistry, biology, and physics.
Qualifications in Cell Biology
Cell biology is a stream within a science degree; this stream is designed to provide a comprehensive training in modern cell and molecular biology with opportunities to explore other elements of science as student’s discretion.
Students will learn about the
complex interrelations of cells
cell anatomy
membrane function
organelles
Some areas of study students may come across within their science degree stream into cell biology include:
Chemistry
Cellular and Molecular Biology
Microbiology
Genes to Organisms
Cell Signalling and Regulation Areas you can work in Cell Biology Working in Cell biology correlates to the science degree stream with students able to apply knowledge gained within their studies to:
Assisting in discovering the causes of certain diseases
improve agricultural crops
develop new forms of drugs and vaccines
and improve the environment
Adapted from the article “Major: Cellular Biology and Histology.” © 2006 collegeboard.com. Reprinted with permission. Visit www.collegeboard.com.
To start your education in this field use the following links:
Biology Courses