Anatomy jobs profile

What does an anatomist do?

Anatomists are researchers and educators in the field of anatomy. They are fascinated by the structure of living things (both human and animal). Their work focuses on identifying and describing the anatomical structures of organisms.

As an anatomist, you may focus your career entirely on research or split your time between research and university teaching. You could be involved in publishing in academic journals, advancing research, contributing to forensic investigations or teaching in academia. You could work for academic institutions, hospitals, the police or for pharmaceutical companies.

How to become an anatomist?

To work successfully in this field, you would need a range of personal skills as well as some academic qualifications. Some of the skills include:

Educational: To enter this field, you would need a BSc in anatomy, biological sciences or natural sciences. An MSc or a PhD degree in anatomical sciences is generally required to take on more senior responsibilities.
Team working: As a researcher, you will be collaborating with other researchers and working together towards the same objectives. You will need to be able to develop positive working relationships with others and be part of a closely-knit academic community.
Effective communications: you may be asked to present at international conferences and attend academic events. You may need to network with other scholars and create collaborative partnerships with experts in your field.
Writing skills: as a researcher, you would prepare reports and presentations, publish in academic journals, and may also write grant applications.
Attention to detail: skilled anatomists are detail-oriented. They collect and assess data from tests, interpret research findings, and complete clinical trials.
Passion for the field: if you work in education, you could develop educational courses and share your knowledge with academic students. You would keep abreast of the latest developments and trends and seek to continually broaden your knowledge.

How much do anatomists make in the UK?

Salaries for research associate roles in anatomical sciences start at around £33,309 to £40,927, depending on qualifications and research experience. Further up the pay scale, salaries for senior research associates or senior lecturers in anatomy start from around £45,000 p.a.

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