Careers to Pursue After Completing Degree
I am interested in pursuing a career in food science upon the completion of my studies. In addition, I would like to pursue a career in biotechnology. Particularly, I would like to narrow down on one career. Preferably, a career in genetic engineering suits me in many ways, and it is an area of great importance (Bhuyan 2002, pg. 67).
Three Main Factors that Influence this Choice
It is notable that training in Bioscience provides learners with intrinsic comprehension of life in various forms. This may include the study of places inhabited by organisms. Furthermore, the training focuses on organisms and other molecules. The knowledge and strategic transferable skills developed as part of the Bioscience training deliver the exceptional foundation for various careers across diverse sectors. I am interested in careers because of the skills that I have gained throughout the training.
The training provides skills in quality control, management of manufacturing, product generation, patenting, labelling regulations, and industrial research, among others. In addition, the training has facilitated the development of appropriate skills pertaining to genetic engineering (Bhuyan 2002, pg. 67). The experience gained in studying the application of genetic engineering in animals, plants, and human beings are critical to the decision making processes. The ability to work with other people in areas such as microbiology, immunology, and biotechnology are also critical in the expansion of knowledge in the genetic engineering field. Furthermore, I have always had an interest in engaging in private practice as a consultant in the appropriate areas.
Job Description
The area of biotechnology is broad and provide those who are trained in bioscience several opportunities. This paper discusses the field of genetic engineering within the area of biotechnology. Genetic engineering incorporates the transfer of genes between animals in order to eliminate or add unwanted traits or characteristics (Echaore-Mcdavid & Mcdavid 2006, pg. 49). The day-to-day work entailed in genetic engineering entails the removal, transformation, or addition of cell nuclei in order to change the information carried by the genes of such cells.
The work environment for genetic engineers normally entails closing laboratory settings with large machinery and equipment used in facilitating the modification of cells (Echaore-Mcdavid & Mcdavid 2006, pg. 49). It is notable that many genetic engineers have presented ethical values as the challenge for working in the field. Genetic engineers normally feelings that using animals in research and the generation of products is unethical. However, they gain satisfaction in their work from their ability to develop products that help millions of people in diverse ways.
Potential Employers
It is notable that genetic engineering falls under the extensive zone of biotechnology. Therefore, biotechnology firms and organizations are likely establishments that can absorb genetic engineers. In addition, the medical field relies on genetic engineering to unearth the nature and characteristics of genetic ailments (Echaore-Mcdavid & Mcdavid 2006, pg. 49). Therefore, genetic engineers can also gain job opportunities in the medical field, where they help comprehend the molecular nature of ailments in order to suggest treatment. In addition, genetic engineers can find work in the criminal justice administration system. The genetic engineers can conduct genetic tests in order to identify suspects in criminal investigations (Echaore-Mcdavid & Mcdavid 2006, pg. 49).
Specialist Training
The specialized training required for genetic engineers is specifically a graduate degree in genetics. In addition, postgraduate degree holders in genetics have the desirable skills to work as a genetic engineer. Furthermore, qualifications in the same fields as biotechnology and molecular biology at the graduate and postgraduate levels possess the appropriate skills required for genetic engineers (Echaore-Mcdavid & Mcdavid 2006, pg. 49).
Volunteer Work and Other Activities
Genetic engineers are expected to possess certain skills developed over time through different engagements. It is notable that volunteer opportunities taken up by emerging genetic engineers are crucial to the development of appropriate personal skills. Volunteer opportunities can develop successful genetic engineers (Reed, 2003, pg. 118). They should learn critical skills such as sharp analytical minds, research skills, and attention to detail. Furthermore, learners can develop high concentration levels, imaginative minds, adequate physical strength, teamwork skills, and sound ethical standards.
The volunteer work that a potential genetic engineer should have entails gaining experience in the broad field of biotechnology. The significance of volunteering at a biotechnology firm is that one can learn the basic issues in testing and genetic engineering. Therefore, budding genetic engineers who gain experience in a wider area of biotechnology can get into the genetic engineering field.
There are notable activities that potential genetic engineers can undertake to acquire the necessary skills for their work. Potential genetic engineers can undertake volunteer work at the courts in order to work as an assistant genetic engineer. The individual can participate in this engagement for a period of six months. The roles of such engagements would include helping in the criminal investigation process in order to link criminals to different crimes. Furthermore, the individual could help the courts in providing evidence from criminals in order to criminalize suspects rightly. The notable obstacles that can hinder one from achieving goals include lack of autonomy in the course of duty. This is possible because volunteering in such a system presents challenges to the independence of an individual.
List of Bibliography
Bhuyan, D 2002, Multiple Career Choices: For Graduate and Post Graduate Courses, Echaore-Mcdavid, S., & Mcdavid, R. A 2006, Engineering, InfoBase Publishers, New Pustak Mahal, New Delhi.
Reed, R. H 2003, Practical skills in Biomolecular sciences, Pearson education, Harlow. York.