Integrative physiology is a field that studies the body’s response to dynamic changes using principles from anatomy, physics, chemistry, biomechanics, and physiology. This field differs from traditional physiology in that it focuses on the body’s response to change and draws on sciences outside of the physiological realm. Depending on the capacity in which you want to be involved, you must obtain the necessary education and training to enter integrative physiology.
Integrative physiologists can be found working in a variety of settings. Research, instruction, and testing are some of the most common examples of these settings. Researchers are primarily interested in the scientific study of integrative physiology, which leads to the discovery of new information and the development of techniques that aid in the field’s advancement. Instructors may teach a variety of integrative physiology courses, ranging from introductory classes to continuing education for seasoned professionals. People who work in testing will most likely work in a clinical or laboratory setting, performing the tests that result in physiological data that can be analyzed.
These are just three of the many ways to get involved in integrative physiology, all of which contribute to a better understanding of the body’s dynamic systems. All of these positions necessitate a high level of specialized knowledge. There are ways to get the experience and education needed to become an integrative physiologist if you are interested in science and the human body.
The first step is to determine whether or not you are a good fit for this field. A good way to do this is to assess your scientific interests or shadow some physiologists who work in an environment that interests you. If you still want to work in integrative physiology after all of this, you’ll need a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree.
A career in the sciences can be pursued with a variety of B.S. degrees. Exercise science, physiology, biology, and pre-medicine are just a few examples. All science degrees should introduce students to the concepts they’ll need to advance their careers. Graduate schools place a higher value on reputable programs, so good grades in high school are also important for getting into a top-tier science program.
Science programs attract some of the world’s brightest minds. Grades and experience are the most important factors for a future integrative physiologist because of the competitive nature of academia. Volunteering in a research lab or taking extra coursework related to your interests could be beneficial.
A graduate degree may be required depending on which area of integrative physiology you wish to pursue. If this is the case, additional schooling, such as master’s or doctoral programs, may be required after completing a bachelor’s degree. Finding the specific niche you want to fill, then meeting the requirements with an emphasis on related experience and grades, is the best advice.