Biotechnology is an emerging field in India, combining biology and mathematics. Many graduates complete their bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biotechnology. The most common question among students is, “What can I do after completing MSc Biotechnology?” Today, people focus on all career aspects that can be pursued after completing an MSc in Biotechnology.
Career after MSc Biotechnology
CSIR NET + PhD:
The first and most preferable career option is to clear the NET exam and continue with your Ph.D. Pursuing a PhD after clearing the CSIR NET exam opens doors to academic positions. Many government organizations prioritize candidates with a NET qualification and a PhD for roles such as assistant professor, professor, and Head of Department (HOD). The hierarchy in academia allows for career progression from an assistant professor to a professor and eventually to the HOD. The government’s increased investment in the education sector has led to more job opportunities.
Job + CSIR NET:
If you haven’t cleared CSIR NET after completing your master’s, you can continue working and simultaneously prepare for the exam. This approach not only helps with financial stability but also provides an opportunity to succeed in the CSIR NET exam later. Job options for those with an MSc in Biotechnology include roles in sales and marketing, lab assistance in quality control, and quality assurance departments.
Job in Biotech Company:
Apart from government positions, you can join private-sector biotechnology companies, often offering higher packages to PhD holders. You can start as an administrative assistant, progress to manager, and eventually reach up to the CEO position.
Sales and Marketing:
A career in sales and marketing within the biotechnology sector can be highly rewarding if you possess the necessary skills. Many International companies seeking to sell their products in India require skilled sales marketers. Online platforms offer opportunities to apply for marketing jobs. The Chief Marketing Officer is the highest position in this department.
Teaching Jobs:
If you are passionate about teaching or starting a career after completing an MSc in Biotechnology, you can begin in colleges, coaching centers, or online edutech companies. However, top private companies often require a PhD for teaching positions. Completing a PhD or upgrading your skills to a PhD level is crucial for securing high-paying teaching jobs.
Join as Research Assistant in Labs:
Research positions in labs provide hands-on experience, and starting as a lab technician or assistant scientist can pave the way to higher roles. Chief Scientific Officer is the highest position in research jobs. Gaining internships in research labs is essential, and proficiency in various techniques like:
- Protein Purification Techniques: Isolating and refining proteins for further analysis.
- Mass Spectrometry: Identifying and quantifying molecules based on their mass.
- UV/Vis Spectroscopy: Analyzing the absorption of ultraviolet and visible light by substances.
- PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): Amplifying and analyzing DNA sequences.
- Immunotechniques: Using immunological methods for various applications.
- Flow Cytometry: Analyzing and sorting cells based on their physical and chemical properties.
- Chromatographic Techniques: Separating and analyzing mixtures of compounds.
- Tissue Culture Techniques: Growing and maintaining cells or tissues in controlled environments.
- Biotransformation Techniques: Altering biological compounds for specific purposes.
- Microbiological Techniques: Studying microorganisms and their interactions.
Internships:
If you are unable to find a suitable job, consider starting with internships in private firms. While the salary may be lower, it provides real practical working experience. In private industries, experience often matters more than educational qualifications. You can explore teaching, marketing, and research internships.
Apart from that, there are many paid internships where you have to pay for doing the internship, but here you get a chance to learn a better skill set from industrial experts
Programming:
Learn programming languages like Python and C++ to work in bioinformatics, drug discovery, and cheminformatics. You can Design different software related to biotechnology using programming languages and libraries such as MATLAB, CADD, and R language.
Important skills for working in the coding area include adaptability, communication, networking, social skills, teamwork, negotiation, cultural competency, emotional intelligence, and relationship building. This is the best career option after an MSc in biotechnology if you want to enter into tech sector.
Top Job-profiles after MSc Biotechnology
Research Scientist:
Research scientists in biotechnology work on developing new products, processes, and technologies. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge in their specific area of focus.
Data Scientist in Biotechnology:
Data Scientists are Analyzing and interpreting large datasets in biotechnology, utilizing data science techniques to derive meaningful insights. This role is especially relevant in fields like personalized medicine and drug discovery. The required skills are programming languages such as Python or R for manipulating and analyzing large biological datasets, Statistics, Bioinformatics Tools, and Data Visualization.
Bioinformatics Scientist:
Bioinformatics scientists use computational tools and techniques to analyze biological data, such as DNA sequences and protein structures. They play a crucial role in genomics, drug discovery, and personalized medicine. You can learn various skills needed such as Programming skills (e.g., Python, R), data analysis, knowledge of biological databases, and understanding of statistical methods.
Clinical Research Associate:
Clinical research associates (CRAs) coordinate and monitor clinical trials to ensure they comply with regulations and ethical standards. They work closely with healthcare professionals, researchers, and regulatory authorities. For that, you must have Knowledge of clinical trial protocols, regulatory compliance, attention to detail, communication skills, and project management.
Quality Control/Quality Assurance Specialist:
QC/QA specialists ensure that biotechnological products and processes meet quality standards and regulatory requirements. They conduct inspections, and audits, and implement quality control procedures. You can learn these basic skills required for this area: Quality control procedures, regulatory compliance, attention to detail, analytical skills, and problem-solving.
Biotechnology Consultant:
They are providing expert advice and consulting services to biotech companies, regulatory agencies, or research institutions. Consultants may specialize in process optimization, regulatory compliance, or strategic planning.
Public Health Biotechnologist:
They Contribute to public health initiatives by working on projects related to disease prevention, epidemiology, or the development of vaccines and therapies for infectious diseases. Public Health Biotechnologists can work in public Health Agencies, Global Health Organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) focused on global health
Biotech Equity Analyst:
You can Work in the financial sector to analyze biotech companies for investment purposes. Equity analysts assess the scientific, regulatory, and market potential of biotech products and companies.
