What this life looks like
You study the animal kingdom — its diversity, behaviour, physiology, and ecology. Zoologists generate knowledge that underpins conservation, agriculture, veterinary medicine, and public health. In Africa, home to the world's richest land animal diversity, zoology is both a scientific vocation and a conservation calling.
What she actually does
You survey and study animal populations in the field and in laboratory settings, investigate animal behaviour and ecology, research animal physiology and genetics, work on captive breeding programmes for endangered species, study the animals that transmit diseases to humans (zoonotic disease research), and contribute to scientific understanding through research and publication.
Where you can work
| Sector | Places in Africa |
|---|---|
| Wildlife Research Institutes | Kenya Wildlife Service research, South African National Zoological Garden, SANBI |
| National Parks | Wildlife management departments in KWS, SANParks, TANAPA, Uganda Wildlife Authority |
| Universities | Zoology and animal science departments at UCT, Nairobi, Makerere, Pretoria |
| Conservation NGOs | WCS, AWF, Panthera, Born Free Foundation — species research programmes |
Why it matters in Africa
Africa's wildlife is both a global heritage and an economic asset through tourism and ecosystem services. Zoologists studying African animals — from insects to elephants — generate knowledge that supports conservation, manages human-wildlife conflict, and protects public health by monitoring zoonotic disease risks.
Your pathway in
- Study Biology and Chemistry at school with particular interest in animal behaviour and ecology
- Pursue a degree in Zoology, Wildlife Management, or Biological Sciences
- Gain field experience through research attachments with wildlife organisations
- Develop skills in wildlife survey methods and animal tracking technologies
- Consider postgraduate research in animal behaviour, conservation zoology, or zoonotic disease
Skills you will need
- Wildlife survey and monitoring techniques
- Animal identification
- Behavioural observation methods
- Data analysis (R, Excel)
- Scientific writing
- GIS and movement ecology tools
A woman in this field
Paula Kahumbu
Kenya
Paula holds a PhD in zoology from Princeton University and has built one of Africa's most impactful conservation careers as CEO of WildlifeDirect. Her zoological expertise underpins her evidence-based advocacy for elephants, big cats, and African ecosystems — work that has changed policies and saved species. She is the host of the popular TV show Wildlife Warriors, which inspires millions of Africans to value and protect wildlife.
Take your first step
- Spend time observing animals in your local environment — birds, insects, and mammals all reveal fascinating behaviour
- Study Biology and Natural Science at school
- Research zoology degree programmes at universities in your country
- Follow African wildlife organisations on social media and engage with their science content