Salary, Job Description, How To Become One, and Quiz
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Mycologists
The main role of a mycologist is to study fungi. They collect, research, and classify fungi, including molds, yeast, and mushrooms.
Table of contents
Mycologists are biologists that specialize in the study of fungi, which includes molds, mushrooms, and yeasts. It is a small field with limited demand, requiring individuals with a strong interest in fungi.
There are many categories of mycologists, including academic mycologists and medical mycologists. Mycologists in academia tend to conduct research and learn more about fungi and their impact on ecosystems.
Mycologists are also involved in the development of new pharmaceuticals. Medical mycologists explore the potential medicinal benefits or health risks of various fungi and mushrooms.
While demand for mycologists is small, it is an interesting career that may allow you to work in a variety of industries.
What they do
The main role of a mycologist is to study fungi. They collect, research, and classify fungi, including molds, yeast, and mushrooms.
Research Species of Fungi
Mycologists often complete research projects to learn more about various species of fungi. The nature of the research depends on the industry. A medical mycologist working for a pharmaceutical company may research the medicinal value and toxicity of the fungi. Many fungi produce antibiotics, toxins, and secondary metabolites that may be used in medicine and other products.
Research is needed to gain a better understanding of fungi and how they impact ecosystems and economies. For example, some species of fungi are needed to break down decaying wood and leaf litter to complete the carbon cycle in nature. Fungi can also be used to clean up toxic waste or for food production.
Teach Others about Mycology
Mycologists are often involved in outreach programs to help increase awareness of the benefits of fungi. For example, an academic mycologist may visit a local school to teach students about mushrooms. Outreach programs are designed to increase awareness to help bring more funding to the world of mycology.
Mycology professors also teach others about fungi. When working as a professor, mycologists are also responsible for assessing students’ knowledge, reviewing coursework, and conducting original research.
Collaborate with Other Scientists
Pharmaceutical mycologists often work with scientists that specialize in other fields of study, such as microbiology or pharmaceutical sciences. They collaborate on the development of new drugs and research fungal species.
The collaborative process may also involve synthesizing the primary compounds found in fungal species. Synthesizing natural compounds is often necessary for drug development projects.
Plant and Harvest Mushrooms
Some mycologists choose to work in the mushroom-farming industry. In this role, mycologists may need to plant and harvest mushrooms. They use their advanced knowledge of the fungi to improve crop yields and enhance the positive qualities of the mushrooms.
Mycologists outside of the mushroom-farming industry may also plant and harvest fungi. For example, pharmaceutical mycologists may grow fungi in the lab to conduct research.
Classify New Species of Fungi
Classical mycologists are responsible for classifying the taxonomy of newly discovered species of fungi. Mycologists have classified about 100,000 species of fungi. Experts estimate that there are at least 1.5 million species on the planet.
There is currently a shortage of mycologists involved in taxonomy, as many mycologists choose to work in academia or pharmaceuticals. When working in other fields, you are unlikely to discover new species.
What is the job like
Pros
You May Help Develop Useful Drugs
When working in pharmaceuticals, you may help develop new drugs to fight a variety of diseases, including cancer.
You Get to Work with Fungi Every Day
Mycologists typically enter this field due to their love of fungi. As a mycologist, you get to work with something that you love to explore.
You Can Work in a Variety of Industries
You may choose to work in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, or even biofuel production.
You May Get to Name a New Species
If you choose to become a classical mycologist, you may get to discover and name a new species of fungi.
Cons
Obtaining Funding for Research
Mycologists who work for academic institutions typically require funding to complete their research. Unfortunately, you may not always receive the funds that you need.
People May Not Understand Your Job
The average person does not know what a mycologists is or what they do. The general lack of awareness can be frustrating.
Where they work
Mycologists typically work for government research labs and academic institutions. However, they may also seek employment in a variety of industries that use fungi in their products or research. This includes companies involved in medicine, biofuels, and biotechnology.
Mycologists may also find employment opportunities in mushroom farming or companies that produce mushroom bioproducts. Most of the work of a mycologist is completed in laboratory settings with occasional time in the field to collect fungal samples. Medical mycologists may also work in hospitals and other healthcare settings.
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How to become one
Step 1: Study Biology and Chemistry in High School
Mycologists need a strong understanding of biology, chemistry, and other sciences.
Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
You will need at least a Bachelor’s degree to find entry-level work as a mycologist. Common majors include mycology, microbiology, and biology.
Step 3: Apply for Entry-Level Work
After graduating, you can seek entry-level work as a laboratory assistant or laboratory technician to gain work experience.
Step 4: Earn a Master’s Degree
Earning a Master’s degree in mycology may be necessary for advancing your career or working in certain industries.
Step 5: Earn a Doctorate
Earning a Doctorate in Mycology or a subspecialty of mycology is necessary for those that want to work as academic researchers or mycology professors.
Should you become one
Best personality type for this career
People with this personality likes to work with ideas that require an extensive amount of thinking. They prefer work that requires them to solve problems mentally.
You can read more about these career personality types here.
Mycologists need patience, as they may need to wait months to receive approval for a research grant or the results of their research projects. You also need to have a love of fungi, due to the nature of the work. Mycologists should be curious individuals, which allows them to find new ways to use known species of fungi.
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