Biotech Job Examples
R & D
Research and Development, often referred to as R & D, gives biotechnology the foundation for curing some of the world's biggest diseases, such as Cancer, Diabetes and HIV.
Laboratory Assistant/Technician - These entry level positions are absolutely vital to the groundbreaking work that is done through R & D. These trained workers are tasked with a host of duties including: data analysis, protocols, experiments, lab equipment calibration and report writing.
Research Assistants/Associates - Work closely with Lab Assistants on R & D experiments, usually working on one subject matter, becoming an expert in a particular field of study. Their duties include: detailed data analysis, results interpretation, preparing experimental protocols and technical report writing.
Quality Control and Assurance
Biotechnology is a highly regulated field to work in; meeting safety specifications is vital to any process. Quality Control and Assurance, referred to as "QC" or "QA", makes sure that the products are tested to specific standards.
Validation Technician - Usually these entry level technicians will prepare tests, validate procedures and protocols that meet with the manufacturing and industrial standards needed.
Quality Control Analyst - This job requires an associates degree or above in a related field, along with on-the-job training. These duties involve carrying out routine and non-routine analysis of the materials used for the product.
Biotechnology Manufacturing & Production
Biomanufacturing plays a major part in the biotechnology industry today and these jobs require a technical skill set.
Manufacturing Technician -The main part of the Manufacturing Technician's job is to oversee and operate production equipment along with the weighing, measuring and checking of materials for the product. They will also keep up with records of the production departments, making sure everything is to standard regulatory requirements.
Instrument/Calibration Technician - Technicians perform maintenance, trouble-shooting, calibration and testing for all production equipment.
Other Areas of Interest
Bioinformatics - A computer-based science that is on the cutting edge in the growing biotechnology industry. There will be a need for workers at all levels. Tasks will include creating and maintaining biological databases.
Bioprocessing - Bioprocessing uses numerous scientific areas, such as engineering, physics, biochemistry and biotechnology to make products.
Agriculture - The future of farming and food production will be shaped by Bio-Agriculture. People that will work in this area are conducting research in genetic technology that will increase the quality and quantity of agricultural products.