In conversations with prospective scientists, particularly those interested in applying to QERM and/or SAFS at the University of Washington, there are some frequently asked questions that I thought would be helpful to address here, including links to useful resources.
Finally, click here for a list of resources related to QERM and SAFS.
- What jobs are available for quantitative ecologists and what is the difference in job prospects for those with master's degrees vs PhDs?
- Do you have advice for finding funding and/or an advisor?
- How would you describe the QERM program's culture?
- How would you describe SAFS departmental culture and/or the Applied Ecology lab culture?
- What does the QERM admissions committee look for in applicants?
- How did your career path evolve?
Finally, click here for a list of resources related to QERM and SAFS.
What jobs are available for quantitative ecologists and what is the difference in job prospects for those with master's degrees vs PhDs? |
Generally speaking, a quantitative ecologist is someone who uses mathematical and/or statistical modeling techniques (usually through computer programming) to analyze datasets for a wide variety of purposes. Consequently, many different sectors employ them. Government agencies, including federal, state, and sometimes county and city governments, employ quantitative ecologists in a variety of roles, sometimes with different job titles than "quantitative ecologist". Environmental consulting agencies are also a good source of potential employers - this firm has hired several QERM alumni upon graduation. There are also a smaller number of nonprofit and for-profit businesses that employ quantitative ecologists.
From the research I've done, there are many entry level positions from all of these types of employers that are accessible to those with master's degrees only. PhDs are required if you want to work in academia, and for some higher level positions in other sectors. For federal agencies, it is sometimes possible to start in a job with a master's degree and earn a PhD while employed by the agency. I don't know what stars need to align for this to occur, but I have known several SAFS PhD students who are in this position, so I know it is possible.
I chose to pursue a graduate degree in quantitative ecology partially because of the diversity of potential employers across multiple sectors. The ability to get a number of different jobs with just a master's degree was also an important factor. Finally, the quantitative and programming skill sets that are acquired as part of the degree also open the possibility for multiple back-up careers with tech or pharmaceutical companies - neither of these transitions would be straightforward (or desired), but the skill sets are similar enough to make it possible in a pinch.
From the research I've done, there are many entry level positions from all of these types of employers that are accessible to those with master's degrees only. PhDs are required if you want to work in academia, and for some higher level positions in other sectors. For federal agencies, it is sometimes possible to start in a job with a master's degree and earn a PhD while employed by the agency. I don't know what stars need to align for this to occur, but I have known several SAFS PhD students who are in this position, so I know it is possible.
I chose to pursue a graduate degree in quantitative ecology partially because of the diversity of potential employers across multiple sectors. The ability to get a number of different jobs with just a master's degree was also an important factor. Finally, the quantitative and programming skill sets that are acquired as part of the degree also open the possibility for multiple back-up careers with tech or pharmaceutical companies - neither of these transitions would be straightforward (or desired), but the skill sets are similar enough to make it possible in a pinch.
Do you have advice for finding funding and/or an advisor? |
How would you describe the QERM program's culture? |