Biotechnology: A Field of Diverse Career Options and Opportunities.
- January 10, 2024
- 296
Biotechnology is a recent field in the discipline of biology. Many people think of those studying biotechnology as doctors because they wear lab coats all the time and are preoccupied with developing life-saving drugs or devices. Biotechnology is more than just wearing lab coats; it brings a lot of career options for you if you are pursuing a career in the field of biotechnology.
The biotechnology industry is a major economic driver, generating nearly $140 billion in revenue last year, and US biotech firms currently employ more than 1.66 million people. And the demand for professionals will continue to grow in the future as biotechnologists are called the warriors against the deadliest pathogens.
Most of the students don't realize that biotechnology has a lot of career prospects for them. Regardless of employment as an associate scientist or technician in a medical device or pharmaceutical company, they should also explore other avenues such as research and development, quality assurance/regulatory affairs, manufacturing, medical research, government policy making, software engineering, food, Many other fields are open to them, including food, livestock, environmental science, sales and technical support, business management and project management.
Because biotechnology has importance in many industries, there are openings for professionals and specialists in government agencies, private companies, regulatory bodies, or clinical laboratories. They range from small biotechnology start-ups and global pharmaceutical companies to federally funded organizations such as the Department of Agriculture and the National Institutes of Health.
Below are some of the most sought-after biotechnology careers, which can shape your future.
Biomedical Engineer
A biomedical engineer combines engineering and biological expertise to design solutions to problems in biology and medicine. They design biomedical devices, medical software, prosthetics and diagnostic machines with the goal of improving the quality and effectiveness of patient care. They use different technologies in favor of mankind and help people worldwide.
Biochemist
Biological scientists study the chemical properties of living things and biological processes such as cell growth, heredity, and the causes of disease. They often conduct complex research projects and classify, analyze and synthesize proteins, lipids (fats), DNA, carbohydrates (sugars) and other substances. They also intervene and investigate the effects of drugs, hormones and nutrients on tissues and biological factors to develop products and processes that can improve human health.
Clinical Technician
They are also known as medical laboratory scientists. These biological technicians collect samples, test and analyze the results of body fluids, tissues, bacterial cultures and other substances. These clinical technicians use lab equipment, advanced robotics, specialized computer software, and automated equipment to collect, analyze, and create models. Due to clinical technicians and their help, we use the vaccines that work as antidotes against lethal diseases.
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Medical Scientist
Medical scientists conduct clinical research to improve patient health by investigating diseases and ways to prevent them. They often prepare and analyze clinical specimens to investigate the causes and treatment of toxins, pathogens, and chronic diseases. These scientists also help standardize methods of drug efficacy, mass production and distribution of foods and drug compounds. It is also a great career choice if you are ready to make an impact in this vast field.
Microbiologist
Microbiologists study viruses, bacteria, and the immune system to develop biomedical and industrial products. These professionals conduct complex research projects and lab experiments to help diagnose and treat infectious diseases. Again, these professionals have vacancies everywhere in the world. You can pick a country of your choice and join the research lab there to start your career.
Process Development Scientist
Process development scientists monitor manufacturing processes in an organization's labs and look for ways to improve quality and efficiency. Once new products are developed or approved for manufacture, these scientists develop methods to measure production while adhering to standard protocols. These scientists work as managers in the whole process and try to maintain the standards.
Biomanufacturing Specialist
Biomanufacturing specialists use tools and methods to guarantee that products meet stringent requirements for purity, safety, potency, and quality throughout the manufacturing process. Biomanufacturing often involves the mass production of proteins used to treat or cure human diseases, but these professionals must have a thorough knowledge of federal, provincial and industry regulatory standards.
So, the above career choices are really appealing for biotechnologists, as they can make a name in the field of science by working for the welfare of human beings.