Education

Careers in Ichthyology

Education Selections... South Florida Aquatic Environments About the Different Groups of Fishes About the Anatomy of Fish and Sharks How Fish and Sharks Swim About Fish Adaptations About the Endangered Species Act How to Become a Biologist About Careers In Ichthyology Most Commonly Asked Shark Questions Most Commonly Asked Sawfish Questions Most Commonly Asked Ray and Skate Questions Most Commonly Asked Fish Questions Identification Key to Freshwater Fishes of Peninsular Florida Field Key to Sharks Skates of the Western Gulf of Maine Project Shark Awareness - A Public Outreach Educational Program Shark Fishing in U.S. Territorial Waters Most Commonly Asked Sawfish Questions Sawfish In Peril - PowerPoint file Sawfish Informational Brochure - Acrobat file Sawfish Outreach Boat Ramp/Marina Sign - Acrobat file Sawfish References Sawfish Links Smalltooth Sawfish species profile Largetooth Sawfish species profile Green Sawfish species profile Freshwater Sawfish species profile Dwarf Sawfish species profile Knifetooth Sawfish species profile Chondrichthyes Bibliography Search Freshwater Fishes of Florida References General Fish References Shark References Sawfish References Childrens' Shark Books Stingray Reproduction References Biological Profiles Glossary of Terms Shark Games: Test Your Knowlege! 2003 Open House Photos Jason Seitz - Former Fish Collection Technician at the Florida Museum of Natural History How did you become interested in ichthyology? "Put simply: fishes have always held my interest both in their mysterious ways and in their incredible adaptability." What training and education do you have? "Education: Bachelor of Science in Biology, State University of New York at Brockport; Associate of Applied Science in Fisheries Technology, SUNY at Cobleskill. Additional graduate-level courses: Environmental Research Methodology, Scientific Writing Training: Advanced SCUBA Certification, Red Cross CPR/Basic First Aid, Boating Safety Certification, Cetacean Stranding and Salvage Training, GIS/GPS Processing Hardware and Software Training, Basic Fire Training, Pesticide Application License and Certification, Shorebird Ecology and Management Workshop" What personal qualities are important in this field? "Besides a working knowledge of some aspect of fish biology, other important personal qualities include well developed observational skills, good interpersonal skills, and diligence." Describe your work and research: "In addition to my continued research on the ecology of the smalltooth sawfish, Pristis pectinata, I help curate the FLMNH ichthyology collection." What skills do you use on the job? "Fish identification, computer and database skills, familiarity with the literature, knowledge of chemicals used in curating fishes, logistics, etc." What interesting discoveries have you made in your studies? "My research on the smalltooth sawfish has revealed some interesting clues to its natural history, including the regular use of deep water refuges for large sawfish, and clues to critical mating and birthing habitats." What is your typical work schedule? "I generally work about 40 hours per week at the office or in the field. In addition, some weekends or weekday evenings are spent working on manuscripts or presentations." What do you like best about your job? "There is always something more to learn about any aspect of ichthyology, and that fact keeps me excited at my job." Does this profession require any travel? "Travel is not generally required, unless it is part of your job description. Occasionally, you may attend a seminar or go to a symposium perhaps in another state or outside the country, and you may get the chance to do field work far away from your home. Generally speaking, if you wish to stay close to home, you can do so." What is the general salary range for someone in your position? "There is a wide range of salaries in this profession. It depends on who your employer is, and whether you have a supervisory position, can obtain lots of grant funding, how well recognized you are as a professional, etc. Starting salary may range from $20,000 to $35,000 yearly, and may not initially offer benefits. It helps to be budget-minded, and you may need to make some sacrifices in your pursuits during your free time." How long have you been an ichthyologist? "I prefer the term Marine Biologist, since I have worked with other marine organisms besides fishes. I've been in this general field for more than ten years." Is it difficult to find a job in ichthyology? "Generally, yes. However, it pays for an individual to be relentless in his/her pursuit of this career choice, and to not let friends or family members tell you different or stand in your way. Always listen to your heart when it comes to picking a profession. Once your chosen path is illuminated, let nothing stand in your way. Do not give up or compromise." Have you ever considered a career in a different field? "When I was in high school, I thought I could always own a pet shop specializing in aquarium fishes and reptiles, if I didn't make it as a fish researcher. Once I entered the field of marine biology however, I knew I would stay there." Do you ever go fishing in your free time? "Absolutely! I fish every chance I get. Both fresh and saltwater. Fish researchers get an added kick out of fishing: not just is it a challenge to hook and successfully land a fish on angling tackle, but once you get it alongside the boat, you enjoy the chance to observe the species in its natural habitat."