Taking up a job in biotechnology means involving oneself in the
development of new products and processes for the good of
mankind and quality of life. Before one seriously considers a
career in biotechnology, it is imperative to have extensive
knowledge in biology, chemistry, and other life sciences.
Biotechnology also has a deep impact on other areas such as
human health careers which involves detecting and treating
hereditary diseases, cancer, heart disease, AIDS, etc; in
Veterinary Medicine, Animal Science, and Livestock Production;
and in Agriculture and Plant Science.
A biotechnology company has a number of divisions, each
performing different tasks and functions.
Career in Research and Development:
Like any other company, a biotechnology company also needs a
qualified team of researchers to represent its future. While
some researches may focus on a specific application, some may be
carried out for acquiring new knowledge which may not need
immediate application. Researchers may also work in academic
environments such as universities or within the premises of the
company setup. The most important thing is that research and
product development form the foundation and basis of any
biotechnological setup.
Career in Production and quality control:
People who have extensive knowledge of engineering or
industrial-manufacturing technology are required by
biotechnological firms in production and manufacturing. In order
to make sure the finished products meet specifications, a group
or team of quality assurance look after the production process,
research and development. This group of experts belongs to the
quality control division.
Career in Management:
Biotechnology companies need managers who can supervise the
working of the company such as Research and Development,
Production, and Quality Control. These people are often Ph.D.
level scientists who have worked their way up through special
achievements or accomplishments. They may also have business
training and experience sometimes.
Career in Sales and Marketing:
Market researchers analyze, assess and estimate the need for a
specific product and it would sell. They advertise and promote,
and try to find new markets for products already being sold.
Salespersons deal directly with consumers by selling, getting
feedbacks etc, and are the most visible representatives of the
biotechnology company.
Career in Regulatory Affairs
Since all biotechnology companies, especially agricultural and
pharmaceutical, are regulated by federal and state agencies such
as FDA, EPA, and USDA regarding the safety, ethics etc of
manufacturing and products, they need a team of experts and
specialists to make sure the company follows all regulations
laid down by these agencies.
Career in Legal Affairs:
Any invention or discovery is not safe from copyright
infringement without the proper patent. Since biotechnology
companies and firms are continually engaged in the search for
newer and better products, they need people specializing in law
to prepare patent application, or keep track of patent laws.
Career in Public Relations, Communications, and Training:
Biotechnology companies must be able to relay information to the
public or other agencies in a language they will understand
because biotechnology involves the use of technical terms much
of the time. They must also be able to convince others on the
credibility and usefulness of their products. As the company
grows bigger, the scope of its recruitment also grows along with
it. This would imply the need for more training and staff
development, and hence more trainers.
About the author:
Biotechnology HQ:
articles and information about the science of biotechnology.
