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Biotechnologist

Biotechnologists study plants, animals and microorganisms.

They use this knowledge to develop uses for biological processes, which include creating products for pharmaceutical, agricultural, diagnostic and environmental use, and advancing industrial processes.

Their work may incorporate the use of small molecule technologies, nanotechnology, bioinformatics and synthetic biology.

TASKS

Biotechnologists may perform the following tasks:

study the genetic, chemical, physical and structural composition of cells, tissues and organisms
identify ways in which organisms and biological processes can be used to create new medicines, vaccines, foods, fuels and pharmaceutical products
develop diagnostic tools to rapidly detect diseases
use bacteria, enzymes and other organisms for a range of industrial uses, including agricultural production, food production and waste removal
crossbreed animals and plants to encourage beneficial characteristics such as disease resistance, improved nutrition and accelerated environmental adaptation
conduct research and experiments in the fields of genetic modification and biomolecular engineering, which involves altering the genetic make-up of plants and animals
conduct human stem cell research with the aim of treating or preventing illnesses
use biological engineering processes to create biological products for commercial use, such as biomaterials, chemicals or fuels

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enthusiasm and aptitude for science and research
able to think logically and analytically
able to carry out detailed and accurate work
good communication skills
able to solve problems and think creatively
able to work independently or as part of a team
able to grasp ethics of scientific research involving humans

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a biotechnologist you usually have to complete a degree in biotechnology or a degree in science with a major in one of the life sciences. You can also become a biotechnologist by completing a degree in chemical engineering with a major in any type of biological engineering. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, chemistry, biology, earth and environmental science, and physics are normally required. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact Open Universities Australia or the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Biotechnologists are employed in federal, state, territory and local government organisations, including research organisations. They are also employed in private industry, hospitals, educational institutions, primary production and fisheries. Entry to some jobs is highly competitive.

With appropriate qualifications and experience, biotechnologists may progress to running their own laboratory or move into a career in government relations, regulation, quality assurance or allied business services such as clinical trial development. Senior positions in the industry often require an honours, masters or doctoral degree, demonstrating a high level of competence in the laboratory.