Biology is the study of living organisms and their relationship to their environment. Areas of specialization within the field have always been numerous and have expanded greatly with the development of biotechnology and the rapid pace of traditional medical research. Some biological scientists conduct basic research to advance knowledge of living organisms, including viruses, bacteria, and other infectious agents. Basic biological research continues to provide the building blocks necessary to develop solutions to human health problems and to preserve and repair the natural environment. Biological scientists mostly work independently in private industry, university, or government laboratories, often exploring new areas of research or expanding on specialized research started in graduate school.