Ecosystem modeller
Use computer models to understand how to better manage and protect our environment.
About the job
What it's like
Are you passionate about the planet? In this role, you can make a difference to help animals and plants flourish in their environment.
You'd use technology to create models that gather information and make predictions.
You might specialise in particular ecosystems such as marine life or forests or you could have a wider environmental focus.
You could apply your expertise to a variety of causes. For example, conservation efforts, environmental health and protection or climate science.
This career would let you follow a passion for the environment into a scientific career. If you're keen on working with computers too, being an ecosystem modeller might be the job for you!
Your tasks might include:
programming predictive models that deliver accurate results
helping organisations be more environmentally-friendly
processing, collecting and interpreting biological and physical data
predicting and reporting the likely impacts of a change to an environmental system
creating reports and presentations to share findings
Green job
In this job you'll be doing work to help the environment. Find out more about green jobs.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
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Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Ecosystem modeller'
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Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- written communication
- understanding
- researching
- problem solving
- innovative
- ethical
- analysing
- adaptability
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Biology
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Statistics
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Computing Science
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Maths (Mathematics)
You'll need at least a degree in a relevant subject. For some roles, you'll need a postgraduate qualification such as a master's or PhD. You could study:
environmental science
forestry
agriculture
ecology
biology
geography
mathematics
Course entry requirements will differ depending on which subject you're studying. You might be able to progress to university study by doing a college course first. You could get a Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) at college.
Another option is doing an apprenticeship as a route into university.
You can start learning the skills you'll need in this career through a Foundation Apprenticeship (FA). While you're in S5 or S6, you'll gain work experience while you study.
Have a look at this Scientific Technologies FA on Apprenticeships.scot.
If you’re 16 or older, a Modern Apprenticeship will let you work and earn while you study for a qualification. Here are some you might find helpful:
Membership of an industry organisation can be a valuable way to build contacts within the industry and land a suitable role.
Check out the Royal Statistical Society, the industry organisation for statisticians.
Volunteering experience may also help when applying for courses or jobs. Check out environmental volunteering opportunities on Volunteer.scot.
You'll need to have a good understanding and experience with:
programming languages
data analysis and management
maths and statistics
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Ecosystem modeller'
