Careers

Many careers in the biological sciences require some knowledge of both gross and microscopic anatomy. Some professionals, such as a doctor, require specific anatomical knowledge of one species: humans. Human anatomy is the study of both the macroscopic and microscopic portions of the human body. Human anatomy is essential for professionals in the medical field as they must be able to discern between the many types of tissues in the body, and understand their relationship to each other. Ergonomics is the study of the physical stresses on the human body, and relies on a detailed understanding of its various components.

Other scientists focus on the anatomy of other species, or groups of species. A mammologist understands mammal anatomy, where a herpetologist understands the anatomy of reptiles and amphibians. An evolutionary biologist must understand the complex anatomies of many groups, and uses the information to understand their hereditary relationships. Archeologists study mainly gross anatomy of fossilized organisms, whereas cellular biologists and bacteriologists must rely on microscopic anatomy as their organisms are unicellular.

Degrees in anatomy can be obtained at the bachelors, graduate, and doctoral levels, with a wide variety of concentrations. Many schools offer concentrations and courses in human anatomy as a prerequisite for medical school. Other schools and programs focus on general anatomy, necessary for veterinary science, zoology, advanced biology degrees and other specialties that may rely heavily on anatomy. As a professor of anatomy, one would study and teach about the various aspects of anatomy. Many colleges have researchers who incorporate different aspects of anatomy into their research.

If you are good at anatomy or are interested in career paths with anatomy involved, try to find which branch of anatomy you enjoy the most. If gross anatomy suits you, then you may want to pursue a job as a surgeon or evolutionary biologist. If microscopic anatomy is more up your alley, you could become a microbiologist or study internal medicine. Anatomy is extremely important in many fields, especially when it is coupled with other disciplines of science, such as chemistry and physics. It can yield great insights into the world in branches of biology as far ranging as human medicine and evolution.