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What is Biotechnology?

Biotechnology is the use of living organisms and biological systems to create new products. Biotech is a science made to improve human lives and maintain a healthy environment. Using various microorganisms and harnessing biological processes to produce brand new medicines, hormones, vitamins, and much more is the core of the biotechnological field.

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Biotechnology Fields

The biotechnological field is broad and includes four major fields, each with their own ambitions and systems.

Medical/Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

 

A field dedicated to using biological and molecular processes for research to create diagnostic and medicinal products to combat disease

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Industrial/Environmental Biotechnology

The area of biotechnology focusing on the use of microorganisms through scientific methods and engineering to protect and preserve the environment

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Agricultural Biotechnology

The biotechnology field aimed at genetically modifying organisms, such as crops and animals, to both improve specific traits and create microorganisms for agriculture

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Forensic Biotechnology

This field deals with the analysis and study of genetic information, such as skin tissues and DNA, to provide important information and identify individuals, primarily for criminal investigations

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Career Paths

A Handful of Jobs to Strive For

Potential Biotech Career Paths

Biological Technician

Bioinformatic Scientist

  • Avg Salary: $53,740

  • Works with scientists in operating equipment and recording results

  • Avg Salary: $96,640

  • Undergo clinical research via bioinformatics theory and design databases

  • Avg Salary: $103,840

  • Evaluates family risk for inheritable conditions and provide counseling/genetic testing

Phlebotomist

Genetic Counselor

  • Avg Salary: $45,940

  • Draws blood samples to prepare for medicinal and clinical purposes 

Business Analyst

Human Resource

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  • Avg Salary: $76,200

  • Works in linking management and employees and recruiting new staff

  • Avg Salary: $103,270

  • Uses data analysis for identifying trends and providing marketing/financials queries. 

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