Biotechnologist

State/Territory Specific Information

Biotechnologists use plants, animals and micro-organisms, as well as biological processes, to create products for pharmaceutical, agricultural, diagnostic and environmental use.

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
  • cross-breed 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:

  • enjoy and have 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 as part of a team and independently
  • able to grasp ethics of scientific research involving humans.

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