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PRIMATOLOGIST
Primatology is the study of nonhuman
primates. It is a diverse discipline, and primatologists can be found
in biology, anthropology, psychology and other departments. Some
primatologists focus exclusively on nonhuman primates, while others
study human primates as models for diseases or as part of complex
ecosystems. Most people who identify themselves as primatologists
hold postgraduate training, and these individuals come from a wide
variety of fields and make up a diverse group. Primatologists include
scientists, educators, conservationists, medical researchers and
veterinarians, among others.
A recent survey of the American Society
of Primatologists found that most individuals in the field come
from the disciplines of anthropology, psychology, biology and veterinary
science. Other represented fields include anatomy, biochemistry,
genetics, medical science, pharmacology and physiology. Research
interests include primate behavior; biomedical and reproduction
studies; ecology and conservation; and animal husbandry.
Career Opportunities
Primatology offers a wide range of diverse careers. An academic position,
such as a professor, is one of the most popular careers for a primatologist.
It also is the most likely career for primatologists holding a
Ph.D., as it includes teaching, research, writing research papers,
supervising doctoral students, planning research programs and serving
as part of the school’s administration. A professorship provides
a great deal of freedom to primatologists because they can switch
between teaching and conducting research. Primatologists also can
obtain research positions, many of which include continuous work
in the field or in a laboratory. These positions can involve anything
from direct interaction with primates to perhaps studying their
genetics. Typically, primatologists in a research position would
work in both primatology research centers and in the wild studying
primate behavior.
Primatologists also can obtain government, corporate
and institutional positions. In these positions, a primatologist
would conduct research, focusing on conservation and the necessity
for primates both in research and in the wild. Positions available
might include veterinary positions, research managers, behavioral
scientists, academic positions, animal caregivers and supervisors,
field assistants, environmental specialists and animal and environmental
conservation positions.
Education/Training
Students interested in a career in primatology can choose from a
variety of educational paths. In addition to the disciplines mentioned
above, interested students may pursue undergraduate training in
ecology, conservation biology, animal behavior, molecular biology,
statistics, computer science, science education, journalism, science
writing, bacteriology, virology, neuroscience, paleontology, geology,
natural resource management and a variety of other fields. Students
may seek postgraduate training at medical or veterinary schools,
or at universities with programs in any of the academic disciplines
listed above.
Despite the wide variety of educational tracks followed
by primatologists, there are some common areas. A student interested
in primatology will want to have a strong background in the biological
sciences, with a focus on evolutionary biology. His or her education
should promote computer literacy and familiarity with statistics
as well as the development of good communication skills. Foreign
languages will be useful, too, because primatology is an international
field. Beyond these basic requirements, students should seek training
in any area that will allow them to pursue their specific interests.
Salary
Average: $50,082 per year
Related Links
http://www.aaanet.org
The American Anthropological Association was founded in 1902 and
is the world’s largest professional organization of individuals
interested in anthropology. Its Web site offers links to jobs, research
and education.
http://www.asp.org/society/index.html
The goal of the American Society of Primatologists is to promote
and encourage the discovery and exchange of information regarding
primates. Its Web site offers information about careers, education
and research in primatology.
http://pin.primate.wisc.edu
The Primate Info Net provides original content on the field of primatology
and links to resources about nonhuman primates in research, education
and conservation. PIN is maintained by the Wisconsin Primate Research
Center Library at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. The Careers
in Primatology link provides information to both individuals considering
a career related to primate research, education, conservation or
veterinary medicine and those already pursuing one. The site includes
general information on the wide range of primate-related careers
available and educational and employment resources in primatology.
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