What makes Biotechnology among the most sought after career options?

Q: Are you eager about deconstructing the basic building blocks of living organisms?

Q: Performing serious research in a laboratory setting sounds appealing to you?

Q: Do you feel curious to apply molecular biology knowledge to develop new pharmaceuticals or biofuels?

If the answer to the above questions is yes, then Biotechnology is your ‘forte’. Information Technology has dominated India for decades and now the efforts have been inclined towards Biotechnology. The Indian biotech industry is similar to what the IT industry was in the 1990s - a sector with robust growth and with numerous job opportunities.

Data by India Brand Equity Foundation states that the biotech industry is experiencing rapid development in comparison to the previous years.

What is a Biotechnology Study?

Biotechnology is the application of Technology and Biology to solve contemporary cultural and scientific issues. Biotechnology assists astronauts deal with the effect of weightlessness, research medicines, and pharmaceuticals.

Biotechnology has completely transformed forensic science as it is used to metamorphose bacteria so they can make human proteins such as insulin. This industry is everywhere from breakfast cereal, coffee filters to camping gear and vitamins.

A degree in Biotechnology introduces a career in one of the many businesses and research facilities that make up the biotech industry. The cluster of programmes offered is vast. Some range from producing skilled researchers, managers, and laboratory technicians, and others are intended to guide students along the path to doctoral and postdoctoral work.

Types of Biotechnology Degrees

Many universities apply cutting-edge technology to biological procedures in innovative creative ways. In India, the University Institute of Biotechnology(UIBT) at Chandigarh University is ranked among the top Biotechnology colleges. The faculty is experienced and sourced from top universities with numerous undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The programmes are designed with a curriculum that develops a strong foundation in the biological sciences.

Coming to the programmes: there are six types of programmes majorly: Certificate, Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, and Dual Degree. Many universities focus on the multidisciplinary nature of the subject, with schools bringing in skills from other areas to supplement a traditional study of Biology.

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology

Biotechnology has become specialised during the last decade and it is rare to find colleges and universities providing proper degree courses. Students generally do an initial degree in Chemistry and Biology and then go for a master’s programme in Biotech. However, bachelor programmes do exist and it is better to go for one.

2. Certificate Programmes in Biotechnology

A certificate programme is appropriate for students who are looking to expand their knowledge without any specialisation. Most of the programmes include 15 to 25 credit hours and can be completed in two-four semesters. Courses comprise the basic concepts of Biotechnology to studies in manufacturing practices, food Biotechnology, drug design, etc.

3. Associate Degree in Biotechnology

An Associate Degree usually includes 60 or more credit hours. An industry internship is a prerequisite. The entire programme takes two years to complete and is a perfect choice for graduates in Biotechnology to upgrade their careers.

4. Online Degree in Biotechnology

Biotechnology degrees can be earned online too from the comfort of your home. The online programmes encompass brief residencies or locally arranged lab work that gives students access to hands-on training. Online courses are a suitable choice for working professionals who want to earn their degrees without financial obligations.

Advantages of pursuing a career in Biotechnology

1. Offers huge potential to students

Biotechnology is a comprehensive branch of science that is progressing at a rapid pace. The benefit of the scientific field is that it offers tremendous potential to the students who are interested in making life easier for humans. Biotechnology comprises research powered by the motivation of humans to find solutions to new or old problems. So, students who have this skill set, this is the right field for you. It will provide you with immense opportunities to grow in this field with time.

2. Work in any field

Whether it is a graduate degree, postgraduate, or diploma in Biotechnology, it allows you to work in any sector. You will have infinite work opportunities in both the government and private sector as both sectors are engaged in research work and other related processes. Select the working sectors according to your skill-set and your future career prospects.

3. Can contribute to several sectors

A career in Biotechnology is advantageous as students and professionals can contribute to various sectors and industries. You can contribute to the field of medicine, pharmaceutical, husbandry, Chemistry, cell biology, environment, and agriculture which focuses on the improvement of good health in human beings.

4. Immense growth options

A wide range of courses are available in Biotechnology that provides immense scope to grow professionally and one can opt for better courses that boost up the career. Career growth is vast as you can start from zero and become a senior scientist with time. Biotechnology offers premier and reputable jobs for those candidates who have a good knowledge base and are open to working on new technologies. You have an outstanding scope to work abroad especially in developed countries such as Australia, the USA, and Europe.

5. Career options after Graduation 

• Biomedical Engineer
• Agricultural Engineer
• Microbiologist
• Biochemist/Biophysicist
• Animal Scientist
• Soil and Plant Scientist

Major Career options after Masters and PhD Programmes

1. Senior Scientist

Employers expect scientists to have extraordinary interpersonal skills and strong communication skills. Senior scientists are expected to conduct regular checks of the work of others as well as acting as an interface between the scientific arm of a company and its management. This job generally requires a master’s along with some industry experience.

2. Bioinformatician

Bioinformatics specialists design, develop, and utilise tools for gaining information about Biotech procedures. Bioinformaticians also implement these tools and examine the data obtained from them. This generally demands a PhD in Biotechnology with a concentration on Bioinformatics and computational Biology. In some cases, a PhD option can be waived if the candidate can demonstrate relevant experience in this field.

3. Industry Researcher

A Biotech researcher states the range and scope of new areas of research. Such a position requires a PhD plus a few years of postdoctoral experience in either industry or research. To work as an industry researcher, you must have strong publication skills.

Currently, India is featured among the top 12 global biotech destinations and is third in the Asia-Pacific region. Biocon, Panacea Biotech, Ranbaxy, Aventis, Piramal Healthcare are some of the big-league companies that hire the best biotech professionals.

The diverse nature of Biotechnology makes it one of the sought-after careers for professionals where they can utilize their skills, knowledge, and experience. So, if you are looking for a career in Biotechnology, start your studies today.

Note: The views expressed in this article are that of the institute and do not reflect/represent those of Shiksha