Top 11 Research Biologist Certifications

Certifications are important for research biologists in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that is often required by employers. Certifications provide evidence that the biologist has a certain level of proficiency in a specific area, such as molecular biology, biochemistry, or genetics. This can be especially beneficial when applying for positions that require specialized skills or qualifications. Additionally, certifications can also help to distinguish one candidate from another and give them an edge in the competitive job market.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications available to research biologists and explain how they can enhance their career prospects.

What are Research Biologist Certifications?

Research biologist certification is a professional credential that is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and competency in conducting research in biological sciences. Certification is usually obtained by completing an accredited program or passing an examination administered by a professional organization.

Having a research biologist certification can help those working in the field of biological sciences to stand out from others when applying for jobs or research grants. It also demonstrates technical proficiency and knowledge of the field, which can be valuable when applying for positions or promotions within the field. Additionally, having a research biologist certification may open up opportunities to work on specialized projects or with specific organizations, as well as providing access to resources not available to non-certified individuals.

Having a research biologist certification also shows employers that the individual has taken the initiative to further their education and develop their skills, which can be appealing when competing for positions. It also indicates that the individual has gone beyond basic training and has acquired additional qualifications in order to become more knowledgeable and proficient in their chosen field of study. Finally, having a research biologist certification may provide access to networking opportunities that could lead to additional job prospects or other career advancement opportunities.

Pro Tip: When researching biologist certification requirements, be sure to check if the certification is recognized by your state and/or employer. Different states and employers may have different standards for certifying biologists, so it’s important to make sure you are meeting the necessary criteria.

Related: What does a Research Biologist do?

Top 11 Research Biologist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Research Biologists today.

1. American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Certified Microbiologist

The American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Certified Microbiologist is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of microbiology. The certification program is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge, proficiency, and commitment to the profession.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain prerequisites and pass an examination that covers topics such as microbial ecology, laboratory techniques, and biochemistry. Applicants must also complete a minimum of four years of professional experience in the field of microbiology.

It typically takes about two years to prepare for the exam and fulfill all requirements for certification. To get started, applicants should review the ASM Certification Handbook which outlines all requirements and provides information on how to register for the exam.

The cost of registering for the exam is $400 USD plus applicable taxes. Additionally, there are fees associated with maintaining your certification status each year ($100 USD).

2. American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) Certified Professional Biologist

The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) Certified Professional Biologist (CPB) is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize professional biologists who have met the highest standards of excellence in their field. The CPB credential is awarded to those who demonstrate a mastery of the core competencies and knowledge areas required for successful professional practice.

It typically takes two to three years to complete the requirements for the CPB certification, depending on your level of experience and education. To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements, submit an application, pay a fee, pass an examination, and participate in continuing education activities.

To get started, applicants should review the AIBS Certification Handbook which outlines all of the requirements for CPB certification. Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in biology or a closely related field from an accredited college or university; at least five years of professional work experience as a biologist; and must have completed at least 60 hours of continuing education courses within the past five years.

The cost for applying for CPB certification is $250 for AIBS members and $350 for non-members. There is also an additional fee of $150 if you are taking the exam onsite at an AIBS conference or event.

3. American College of Clinical Pathology (ACCP) Certified Clinical Pathologist

The American College of Clinical Pathology (ACCP) Certified Clinical Pathologist (CCP) credential is a voluntary certification program for pathologists. It is designed to recognize the highest level of achievement in the practice of clinical pathology. The CCP credential is earned by demonstrating knowledge and expertise in the field of clinical pathology through a rigorous examination process.

It typically takes about two years to complete the requirements for CCP certification. To become certified, applicants must pass a comprehensive written exam that tests their knowledge and skills in areas such as laboratory management, laboratory safety, quality assurance, and diagnostic testing. Applicants must also document at least two years of relevant experience in clinical pathology or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

To get started on the path to becoming a CCP-certified pathologist, applicants must first complete an application form and submit it along with all required documentation. Once approved by ACCP, applicants can register for the exam and pay the associated fee ($1,000). After passing the exam, applicants will be awarded their CCP credential and can use it to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in clinical pathology.

The cost of becoming a CCP-certified pathologist varies depending on factors such as exam fees, travel expenses, and other related costs. In addition to the $1,000 fee for taking the exam itself, applicants may also need to pay for study materials or courses that help them prepare for the exam.

4. National Registry of Certified Microbiologists (NRCM)

The National Registry of Certified Microbiologists (NRCM) is a professional certification program for microbiologists. It is administered by the American Academy of Microbiology (AAM). The NRCM program provides recognition to individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of microbiology.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having a minimum of five years of experience in the field and completing an approved course or equivalent training. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive written examination that covers topics such as microbial physiology, genetics, immunology, and biochemistry.

The process to become certified takes approximately four to six months from start to finish. After submitting an application and meeting the eligibility requirements, applicants will be notified when they can register for the exam and will receive study materials at that time. Once they have passed the exam, they will receive their official certification from AAM.

The cost to become certified varies depending on the applicant's location and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 USD to apply for certification and take the exam. This includes fees for registration, exam preparation materials, and any additional fees associated with taking the exam in your area.

5. American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) Certified Quality Assurance Manager

The American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) Certified Quality Assurance Manager (CQAM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to plan and implement quality assurance programs in laboratories. CQAMs are expected to understand the principles of laboratory accreditation and how they apply to laboratory operations.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the application process for the A2LA CQAM certification. The first step is to complete an online application form, followed by a review of your qualifications by the A2LA Certification Board. After successful completion of this review, you will be required to take an online exam which consists of multiple-choice questions on topics such as laboratory management, quality assurance principles, and accreditation requirements. Upon passing the exam, you will receive your CQAM certificate from A2LA.

The cost for the A2LA CQAM certification varies depending on factors such as location and experience level. Generally speaking, it can range from $600-$1,000 USD.

6. National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) Registered Environmental Health Specialist

The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS) credential is a professional certification for individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to protect public health from environmental hazards. The REHS credential recognizes the expertise of individuals in the field of environmental health, and it is recognized by many employers as an indication of competency.

In order to obtain the REHS credential, applicants must meet certain criteria, including having at least a bachelor’s degree in an environmental health-related field or equivalent experience, and passing a comprehensive examination administered by NEHA. The exam consists of five sections: Environmental Law; Food Protection; Hazardous Materials; Occupational Safety & Health; and Wastewater Management.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete all requirements for obtaining the REHS credential. Applicants should plan on spending time studying for the exam and completing any required coursework or other prerequisites prior to taking the exam.

The cost of obtaining the REHS credential varies depending on whether you are an NEHA member or non-member. For members, it costs $125 for initial certification and $75 for recertification every five years. For non-members, it costs $225 for initial certification and $125 for recertification every five years.

7. International Society for Cellular Biology (ISCB) Certified Cell Biologist

The International Society for Cellular Biology (ISCB) Certified Cell Biologist is a certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the field of cell biology. The certification is designed to demonstrate a mastery of the fundamental concepts, principles, and techniques of modern cell biology. It is intended to provide evidence of an individual’s expertise in the field, as well as serve as a valuable credential for career advancement.

To become certified by the ISCB, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as cell structure and function, molecular genetics, biochemistry, and bioinformatics. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. Applicants must also have at least three years of full-time experience working with cells or related fields.

The cost for taking the exam is $500 USD for ISCB members ($550 USD for non-members). Once certified, individuals are required to renew their certification every five years by completing additional continuing education activities.

Overall, becoming an ISCB Certified Cell Biologist provides recognition of one’s expertise in the field and can help advance one’s career prospects.

8. American Fisheries Society (AFS) Certified Fisheries Professional

The American Fisheries Society (AFS) Certified Fisheries Professional (CFP) is a certification program that recognizes the professional qualifications and expertise of fisheries professionals. The CFP credential is an internationally recognized mark of excellence in the field of fisheries science, management, and conservation.

It takes approximately 1-2 years to complete the requirements for the CFP credential. Requirements include: having a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in fisheries or a related field; completing at least three years of professional experience in fisheries; passing an exam administered by AFS; and submitting references from two individuals who can attest to your knowledge, skills, and abilities as a fisheries professional.

To get the CFP credential, you must submit an application to AFS along with all required documentation and fees. The application fee is $100 USD for members of AFS or $200 USD for non-members. There is also an examination fee of $150 USD for members or $300 USD for non-members.

9. American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) Certified Plant Biologist

The American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB) Certified Plant Biologist is a professional certification program that recognizes the expertise and experience of plant biologists. The certification program is designed to recognize and promote the highest standards of knowledge and practice in the field of plant biology.

It takes approximately two years to become an ASPB Certified Plant Biologist. The process includes completing an online application, submitting transcripts from accredited universities, passing a written exam, and completing a portfolio review. The portfolio review consists of three parts: a research project proposal, a research paper, and an oral presentation.

To get certified as an ASPB Certified Plant Biologist, applicants must have earned at least a bachelor's degree in plant biology or related field from an accredited university or college; have at least two years of professional experience in the field; and pass the ASPB Certification Exam with a score of 75% or higher.

The cost for taking the ASPB Certification Exam is $250 USD. This fee covers all testing materials and administrative fees associated with taking the exam.

10. International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 Quality Management System Certification

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 Quality Management System Certification is a globally recognized standard that provides organizations with a framework to ensure their products and services meet the needs of their customers. It is based on seven quality management principles which are customer focus, leadership, engagement of people, process approach, improvement, evidence-based decision making and relationship management.

Getting ISO 9001:2015 certification typically takes between 6-12 months depending on the size and complexity of an organization’s operations. The process begins with a gap analysis to identify any areas where the organization does not meet the requirements of the standard. This is followed by implementation of changes necessary to achieve compliance. Once these changes have been made, an audit is conducted by an accredited third party auditor to verify that all requirements are being met.

To get ISO 9001:2015 certification, organizations must first select a certifying body such as BSI or SGS and then submit an application for certification. After this has been approved, they will need to undergo an initial assessment audit and then demonstrate continued compliance through regular surveillance audits. The cost of certification depends on the size and complexity of the organization but can range from $3,000-$10,000 USD or more.

11. National Institutes of Health Office of Human Research Protections (OHRP) Good Clinical Practice Certification

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Human Research Protections (OHRP) Good Clinical Practice Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes organizations that demonstrate the highest standards of ethical research involving human subjects. The certification is designed to ensure that research conducted by the organization meets the requirements of the International Conference on Harmonization Good Clinical Practices (ICH-GCP), an international standard for conducting clinical trials.

The certification process typically takes approximately 6-12 months and involves a comprehensive review of the organization's policies, procedures, and practices related to human subject protection. Organizations must submit an application along with supporting documentation demonstrating their compliance with ICH-GCP standards. The OHRP will then conduct an onsite audit to evaluate the organization's compliance with ICH-GCP standards and provide feedback on any areas in need of improvement. Once all requirements are met, the organization will receive its certification from OHRP.

The cost for obtaining OHRP Good Clinical Practice Certification varies depending on the size and complexity of the organization's research activities. Generally speaking, costs can range from $5,000-$20,000 or more depending on factors such as travel expenses and consulting fees.

Do You Really Need a Research Biologist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals. For those who are interested in working as a research biologist, a certificate may be beneficial. A certificate can demonstrate to potential employers that an individual has acquired the necessary skills and knowledge required for the position. It can also provide evidence of proficiency in a particular field of study.

On the other hand, some research biologists may choose not to pursue a certificate program if they already possess the skills and knowledge needed for their current positions. In this case, additional certification may not be necessary. Additionally, some employers may prefer applicants with degrees rather than certificates in certain fields of biology or science-related areas. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to determine whether or not a research biologist certificate is necessary for achieving their professional goals.

Related: Research Biologist Resume Examples

FAQs About Research Biologist Certifications

1. What Certifications are Available for Research Biologists?

Answer: The American Institute of Biological Sciences offers the Certified Biologist (CB) and the Certified Senior Biologist (CSB) certifications.

2. How Do I Become a Certified Research Biologist?

Answer: To become certified, you must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in biology or related field and at least three years of professional experience in research and development. You must also pass an examination administered by the AIBS.

3. What is the Cost of Obtaining a Research Biologist Certification?

Answer: The cost to take the exam is $375 plus a $50 application fee. Additionally, there is an annual maintenance fee of $75 for CBs and $100 for CSBs to maintain their certification status.

4. How Long Does it Take to Receive Certification as a Research Biologist?

Answer: After submitting your application and passing the examination, you can expect to receive your certification within four to six weeks.

5. Is Recertification Required for Research Biologists?

Answer: Yes, recertification is required every five years in order to maintain certification status with the AIBS.