12 Careers for Biotechnology Majors
Biotechnology is everywhere. Combining elements of biology and technology, this fast-growing industry influences almost every aspect of our daily lives. From food production to drug development, environmental sustainability to health care, the career opportunities with a biotechnology degree are almost endless.
In a biotechnology major, students learn about advanced technologies and techniques that can be used to solve some of humanity's most pressing challenges. They develop valuable technical skills, gaining experience in lab-based research work, project management, and more. They also complete courses in a range of biomedical topics, studying everything from genetic engineering to advanced molecular biology. Many biotechnology programs complement this scientific training with coursework in business and legal subjects, offering a wide-ranging education that helps students succeed in many industries.
Let's take a look at a few of the jobs available to a biotechnology major, and whether they're a fit for you.
This article will be covering the following careers:
| Career | Avg Salary | Satisfaction | Your Match |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pharmacy Technician | $38k | 2.8/5 | |
| Clinical Research Coordinator | $156k | 3.0/5 | |
| Biotechnician | $52k | 3.2/5 | |
| Animal Scientist | $80k | 3.5/5 | |
| Brewmaster | $47k | 3.4/5 | |
| Microbiologist | $88k | 3.1/5 | |
| Agricultural and Food Science Technician | $43k | 2.9/5 | |
| Biomedical Engineer | $101k | 3.3/5 | |
| Pharmaceutical Sales Representative | $103k | 2.8/5 | |
| Medical Laboratory Technician | $34k | 2.9/5 | |
| Consultant | $81k | 3.3/5 | |
| Technical Product Manager | $97k | 3.5/5 |
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1. Pharmacy Technician
Biotechnology grads are well-versed in biotechnology products based on DNA, including vaccines, cellular immunotherapies, and antibodies. With this specialized knowledge, they can excel in the pharmaceutical industry. An entry-level position, like pharmacy technician, is a great place to start. With time and experience, other opportunities will open up.
Pharmacy Technician
A pharmacy technician works under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist to support the day-to-day operations of a pharmacy.
2. Clinical Research Coordinator
Clinical research coordinators possess a rare mix of social skills, organization, and methodological rigor. They work in laboratories all over the world to ensure research teams follow the rules and regulations needed to conduct sound clinical trials. Biotechnology majors possess the research experience and subject-specific knowledge needed to excel in this position.
Clinical Research Coordinator
A clinical research coordinator (CRC) plays an important role in the field of clinical research, ensuring the smooth and efficient conduct of clinical trials and studies.
3. Biotechnician
For a hardworking biotechnology major interested in pursuing a PhD, a career as a biotechnician can be a perfect fit. These professional scientists work in teams to solve various problems involving living organisms. For example, a biotechnician might help develop a lifesaving medication or create a new GMO product.
Biotechnician
A biotechnician works in the field of biotechnology, supporting scientific research and experiments within a laboratory setting.
4. Animal Scientist
Professional animal scientists play a vital role in society by improving our food production systems, developing new vaccines, testing cures to genetic diseases, and more. To do so, they apply a variety of biotechnological techniques on animals such as laboratory rats and mice or livestock. Job requirements can vary, but a PhD is often a must in this line of work.
Animal Scientist
An animal scientist specializes in the study of various aspects of animal biology, behavior, management, and production.
5. Brewmaster
A more lighthearted career, but no less fascinating. Brewmasters apply a love of flavor with biotechnical artistry to create delicious craft beers. Success in this booming industry requires a detail-oriented work ethic, an original mind, and the patience to continually iterate and improve on new recipes. A passion for great beer doesn't hurt either!
Brewmaster
A brewmaster is responsible for overseeing the brewing process in a brewery.
6. Microbiologist
Microbiology is a fascinating profession that explores the inner workings of bacteria, viruses, and the immune system. Professionals in this field conduct research to produce new biomedical products, help diagnose illnesses, and treat infectious diseases. A graduate degree is often required, but a bachelor's in biotechnology is a great place to start.
Microbiologist
A microbiologist studies microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
7. Agricultural and Food Science Technician
As agricultural and food science technicians, biotechnology majors can use their knowledge and training to help keep our food production system safe and efficient. These professionals work with food and agricultural scientists to maintain food production areas, operate farm equipment, and more.develop protocols for storing animal and crop samples.
Agricultural and Food Science Technician
Agricultural and food science technicians play an important role in the agricultural and food industry by assisting scientists in various research and development activities.
8. Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical engineers design, test, and develop vitally important medical products. This can include internal organs, insulin-regulating devices, artificial limbs, and more. Some employers will require a bachelor's in biomedical engineering. Often, however, a bachelor's in biotechnology, paired with on-the-job training or a master's degree, will suffice.
Biomedical Engineer
A biomedical engineer applies engineering principles and techniques to solve problems in the field of healthcare and medicine.
9. Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
If you're a clear communicator who has a way with people, a sales job may be for you. Biotechnology sales reps are specialized pharmaceutical workers who deal with complex new medical products. They educate potential customers about cutting-edge genetic technologies, novel immunotherapies, and more. This career typically involves lots of phone calls, emails, presentations, and travel.
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
A pharmaceutical sales representative is responsible for promoting and selling pharmaceutical products to healthcare professionals, such as doctors, physicians, and pharmacists.
10. Medical Laboratory Technician
Medical laboratory technicians collect samples of human tissue, bacterial cultures, and other bodily fluids. They use specialized computer software, lab equipment, advanced robotics, and more to run tests on these various substances. After analyzing the evidence, they communicate the results to doctors and other medical professionals so that they can diagnose and treat their patients accurately.
Medical Laboratory Technician
A medical laboratory technician performs essential laboratory tests and analyses to aid in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases.
11. Consultant
Some biotechnology majors end up working as consultants in fields like product development, forensic analysis, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and process implementation. They use their specialized knowledge and experience of biotechnology to guide research companies, engineering firms, and other employers toward better business decisions.
Consultant
A consultant provides expert advice, guidance, and solutions to individuals, organizations, or businesses seeking assistance in specific areas.
12. Technical Product Manager
For business-minded biotechnology majors, a product management career can be a natural next step after graduation. This role involves overseeing every aspect of the biotechnology production chain, from developing and testing new tools or medications to providing the marketing and sales push needed to make them a success.
Technical Product Manager
A technical product manager bridges the gap between technology and business objectives.