The Long and Winding Road into Marine Biology

By Sarah Neill, Marine Biologist, Scuba Diver, Expedition Leader and Lecturer

One of the most common questions I am asked by students is how to get a job in marine biology. Many are looking for a clear roadmap: complete a degree, secure a role as a marine biologist, and progress steadily upwards. The reality, however, is rarely that straightforward.

Looking back at my own career, I would describe it as a zigzag rather than a ladder.

My journey has taken me through zoos and aquariums, marine research, conservation education, wildlife tourism, expedition leadership, and higher education. At different stages I have worked hands-on with animals, led expeditions in remote environments, conducted field research, taught students, and developed conservation training programmes. None of these roles were part of a carefully constructed master plan. Instead, each opportunity introduced new skills, experiences, and professional networks that opened doors to the next stage of my journey.

For aspiring conservation professionals, this is an important message: careers in this sector are rarely linear, often advancing through sideways moves as much as upward ones. Some people begin in education and move into research. Others start in tourism and discover a passion for conservation science. Some enter through volunteering, while others build specialist skills, such as diving, animal husbandry or ecological surveying, before finding their niche. What matters most is not following a perfectly planned route, but continually developing experience, skills and confidence.

My early career in zoos and aquariums provided an invaluable foundation. These roles taught me about animal welfare, animal behaviour, husbandry, public engagement and conservation education. They also highlighted something that has remained central throughout my career: conservation is fundamentally about people as much as wildlife. The ability to communicate science, engage audiences and inspire behaviour change is just as important as scientific knowledge itself.

As my career progressed, it became clear that employers increasingly value practical experience alongside academic qualifications. Degrees provide essential scientific understanding, but conservation organisations also need people who can apply that knowledge in real-world contexts. The ability to identify species, conduct ecological surveys, collect robust data, and work safely in challenging environments often distinguishes candidates in a competitive job market.

This is where scuba diving becomes particularly important. While many people view diving as a recreational activity, for marine scientists it is often a critical research and conservation tool. Much of the marine environment cannot be effectively studied from the surface. Coral reefs, seagrass beds and other coastal ecosystems require direct, underwater observation.

A trained diver can conduct habitat assessments, monitor reef health, record species abundance, deploy and recover equipment, and document ecological change in ways that would otherwise be impossible. In many roles, diving is not just an additional qualification; it is a skill that significantly expands both research capability and employment opportunities.

Beyond its technical applications, diving also develops highly transferable professional competencies. Every dive involves planning, risk assessment, equipment management, and situational awareness. Divers are responsible for maintaining life-support systems, monitoring their own wellbeing, and operating within strict safety protocols. They learn to remain calm under pressure, communicate effectively, and make informed decisions in dynamic environments.

These experiences foster confidence, independence, and accountability, all qualities that translate directly into field research and expedition work. The traits that define a competent diver, such as attention to detail, discipline, teamwork and responsibility, are the same qualities employers seek in conservation professionals.

This understanding has shaped the Marine Biology Retreats that I now deliver in partnership with Curly, Jodie and Charlie at MAD Divers and Ocean Escapes. These retreats are open to anyone with an interest in marine biology and conservation, whether they are students, recent graduates, career changers, conservation professionals seeking to broaden their skill set, or simply individuals wanting a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems. They are designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical field experience, giving participants the opportunity to develop both technical expertise and transferable skills. Participants learn to scuba dive and gain hands-on experience in species identification, coral reef ecology, reef health monitoring, habitat assessment, wildlife population surveys and marine animal rescue training. Just as importantly, they learn how to apply this knowledge in real-world conservation settings.

However, the value of these experiences extends beyond technical training. Living and working as part of a field team develops resilience, adaptability and cultural awareness. Participants strengthen their communication and leadership skills, learn to problem-solve in unfamiliar environments, and take responsibility for their own safety and equipment. These are precisely the attributes that employers consistently identify as essential for career success.

Ultimately, there is no single route into marine biology or conservation, and that is not something to fear, but to embrace. A non-linear path allows for exploration, growth, and the development of a diverse skillset. Each experience, whether in research, education, tourism, or fieldwork contributes to a broader understanding of the sector.

For students and early-career professionals, the key is to stay curious, seek out opportunities, and be willing to step outside your comfort zone. Whether that means volunteering, learning new technical skills such as diving, or gaining experience in related fields, every step adds value.

Careers in conservation are built not just on knowledge, but on experience, adaptability and a willingness to learn. The path may not be straight, but it is precisely that journey that shapes capable, resilient and ultimately, employable conservation professionals.

Sarah Neill is a marine biologist, explorer, expedition leader, scuba diver, and lecturer with extensive experience working in some of the world's most remote marine environments. Her work combines scientific research, conservation, education, and wildlife tourism, with a particular focus on marine wildlife, animal behaviour, and human-wildlife interactions. She is also actively involved in marine conservation, serving as a Regional Coordinator for the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), a Regional Coordinator for the Sea Watch Foundation, and a board member of the International Otter Survival Fund. Through research expeditions, field-based teaching, and public engagement, Sarah is committed to advancing ocean science while inspiring others to connect with and protect the marine world.

Find her on LinkedIn here

More from MAD Divers and Ocean Escapes