The greatest number are employed in some aspect of economic or applied entomology dealing with the control of harmful insects. There are also tens of thousands of amateur entomologists and hobbyists who study insects without pay, and who provide valuable information on insect distributions, seasonal activity patterns, identification, life cycles, behavior, and more. Entomology Careers in Research. This work includes such phases of entomology as studying and understanding the anatomy, habits, life histories, physiology, and classification of insects and investigating various types of chemical and biological controls. More and more basic information is required to supply answers to complex questions and problems about insects.
Taxonomists identify unknown insects for themselves and for other researchers.
These entomologists are also found on staffs at museums and institutions where insect collections are maintained. Most entomologists maintain an expert interest in some particular group of insects. Many of these people write about the habits and life cycle of certain insect groups or prepare identification keys, which are used by teachers and researchers in their work. Developing methods for controlling insect pests is a very important phase of research. Scientists are constantly striving to find ways of applying chemicals with greater efficiency, economy, and safety.