How to Become an Entomologist: Meaning, Opportunities, and Educational Paths

What is the Meaning of Entomology and Nematology?

Entomology and nematology are complementary sciences that focus on how insects and nematodes impact the environment and public health. While these interdisciplinary sciences are often paired together, entomology and nematology are their own scientific fields.  

Entomology is a branch of zoological science focused on the study of insects and their interactions with humans, the environment, and other organisms. Entomologists play a crucial role in many aspects of human life, as their knowledge is essential for maintaining human health, ensuring food security, and supporting economic stability. Insects are integral to ecosystems, including pollination, decomposition, and being a part of the food web. By studying insects, entomologists help manage pest populations, control the spread of insect-borne diseases, and protect crops from damage. 

Nematology is a branch of microbiology that studies nematodes, also known as roundworms, which live in nearly every habitable environment on earth. Nematology contributes significantly to agriculture, medicine, and environmental studies. In agriculture, nematologists help manage plant-parasitic nematodes, detecting plant pests and enhancing crop yields and food security. In medicine, they study diseases caused by parasitic nematodes in humans and animals, leading to better treatments and preventive measures. Environmental studies also benefit from nematology through the understanding of nematodes’ roles in soil health and ecosystem functions. Globally, nematology plays a crucial role in addressing health and environmental challenges, improving agricultural productivity, combating parasitic diseases, and promoting sustainable land management. 

What Do Entomologists and Nematologists Study?

Entomologists and nematologists study genetics, molecular biology, ecology, physiology, and evolution. Research in these areas can lead to discoveries that benefit medicine, state departments of agriculture, and environmental conservation. For instance, studying the genetics and physiology of insects can provide insights into genetic disorders and developmental processes, while ecological studies can inform biodiversity conservation strategies and sustainable agricultural practices. Pest management of insects and nematodes strategies are also a key part of their education. Through their work, entomologists contribute to a deeper understanding of the natural world and the development of solutions to various global challenges. 

Entomologists and nematologists may also focus on the medical and veterinary significance of arthropods, addressing how these organisms affect human and animal health. Students use invertebrates as models in biomedical sciences, bioinspired engineering, and biotechnology. This interdisciplinary approach prepares them to tackle challenges in public health, providing insights into disease mechanisms, genetic functions, and innovative technologies.

Why Pursue a Degree in Entomology and Nematology?

Common responsibilities of an entomologist include public health, agriculture, and environmental conservation duties. They help safeguard public health by identifying the role of insects in disease transmission, informing effective control and prevention strategies to protect human, animal, and plant health. Entomologists also provide agricultural aid by studying and managing harmful insects, protecting crops and livestock from damage, and ensuring food security. Additionally, entomologists contribute to overall ecosystem health by researching beneficial insects, such as pollinators, essential for agricultural productivity and biodiversity, and by exploring insects used in biological control to manage pest populations. 

Education Requirements to Become an Entomologist

To become an entomologist, you must hold at least a bachelor’s degree for most entry-level jobs. While an entomology or entomology and nematology bachelor’s degree is the best starting point for aspiring entomologists, some students may choose a related bachelor’s degree like zoology, biology, or environmental science. Some employers also require entomologists to earn their certification from the Entomological Society of America (ESA), which offers two certifications for entomologists. Entomologists can get certified by the ESA as a Board Certified Entomologist (BCE), which requires candidates to pass two exams and to have already completed graduate-level study, or as an Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE), which requires candidates to pass one comprehensive exam. Many aspiring entomologists choose to further their education in graduate school to earn their master’s or doctoral degree. 

Careers and Job Opportunities in Entomology and Nematology

Entomology and nematology are expansive scientific fields that offer graduates a variety of rewarding careers. In agriculture, graduates can work on crop protection and pest management, or choose a hands-on career such as commercial beekeeping and insect rearing. Entomologists interested in public health may find roles in biosecurity, biotechnology, and bio-inspired engineering. Environmental conservation careers are also popular among entomologists and nematologists, including roles in natural resources management and protection, biodiversity conservation, and managing exotic species.

Entomologists and nematologists can find great careers in the public sector, including in K-12 education, museum-based research and education, and positions within zoos and botanical gardens. Graduates can also provide scientific consulting to federal agencies, state departments, and ecotourism agencies. Students can also join the U.S. military as military entomologists. No matter what career path an entomology and nematology graduate chooses to pursue, they will play a vital role in improving the environment and public health.