Is a Career in B.Sc. Biotechnology Worth It?
In the last few decades, there have been a couple of careers that have been in constant demand, and biotechnology is one of them. During the COVID-19 pandemic, biotechnology helped pharmaceutical companies develop vaccines in record time, demonstrating the significant societal impact that biotech can have. Beyond healthcare, biotechnology addresses global challenges in agriculture and environmental sustainability, making it a demanding career option.
If you have studied biology in senior secondary (11th and 12th standards), know that medicine is not your only option. Biotechnology offers an exciting alternative that blends biology with cutting-edge technology to solve real-world problems.
Want to know if this field is the right fit for you? Here’s everything you need to know about pursuing a career in biotechnology.
What is Biotechnology?
Biotechnology is a field that combines biology and technology to develop solutions and products, particularly in the fields of healthcare, agriculture, and the environment. Early applications of biotechnology helped develop vaccines and bread. However, the field has evolved significantly over the centuries in ways that it can now manipulate the genetic structures and biomolecular processes of living organisms. This resulted in innovations and breakthroughs in areas such as medicines and therapeutics, medical diagnostics such as pregnancy tests, biofuels and much more.
To pursue a career in biotechnology, one can opt for undergraduate degrees, such as BTech Biotechnology (also known as biotech engineering) or BSc. Biotechnology. The amalgamation of biology and engineering to develop tech-enabled products is what biotech engineering is all about. BSc. Biotechnology, on the other hand, offers a more theoretical knowledge and research-oriented aspects of biotechnology.
Why Pursue a Career in Biotechnology?
Biotechnology is grabbing a lot of attention in India due to many reasons. Here are some reasons why you should pursue biotechnology as a career: -
Meaningful Impact: From developing new drugs to improving agricultural practices, biotech professionals have the opportunity to contribute towards society.
Career Opportunities: With a growing demand for biotechnology, a wealth of job opportunities is available in the market. Job roles in research and development and regulatory affairs are on the rise.
Competitive Salaries: Biotech companies offer higher salaries that reflect the specialised skills and knowledge required to work within the field.
Collaborative Environment: Most biotech companies boast a collaborative environment where multiple teams work together to solve problems, resulting in a dynamic and supportive workplace.
How to Choose the Right College for a Course in Biotechnology?
Several colleges and universities are in India where you can pursue a biotechnology course. But, with so many biotech colleges, how do you pick the right one? Here are some tips to choose the right biotech engineering college: -
Accreditation and Affiliation: Ensure the college is approved by relevant regulatory bodies like AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) and recognised by UGC (University Grants Commission).
Curriculum: Look for a college with a strong curriculum that blends theory with real-world application through hands-on lab sessions and project-based learning.
Faculty: Before selecting a college, check out the qualifications of the faculty members in the biotechnology department. A strong faculty with research experience and active industry collaboration can add a lot of value to your learning.
Infrastructure: Check whether the college has well-equipped laboratories, research facilities, and modern classrooms.
Internships and Industry Ties: Colleges with strong industry connections can provide better internships and placement opportunities.
Career Prospects After a Course in Biotechnology
Biotechnology is an evolving field with a wealth of career opportunities. A biotechnology graduate can work in critical fields like genetics, agriculture, biology, biochemistry, environmental protection, medicine, etc. Some of the most promising career options after a course in biotechnology are:
Bioprocess Engineer: Bioprocess engineers are responsible for creating and developing biotechnological systems and processes. They can earn an average of INR 7 LPA per annum.
Biotechnologist: They are responsible for conducting research, developing and optimising bioprocesses, analyze data, and ensuring quality control in biotechnology labs. On average, they can earn INR 8 LPA.
Genetic Engineer: They use chemical and biological concepts to address issues in the food, energy, and environmental sectors. They can earn an average of INR 7.5 LPA per annum.
Biochemist: These professionals analyse the chemical composition of living organisms and their processes, contributing to research and development in areas like pharmaceuticals and biofuels. They can earn an average of INR 5 LPA per annum.
Microbiologist: These professionals study the immune system and the impact of microorganisms, using their understanding to improve disease prevention and treatment methodologies. On average, they can earn INR 8.5 LPA.
Research Scientist: They investigate many types of sickness and their prevention to enhance patients' health. On average, a research scientist can earn INR 9.3 LPA.
A BSC Biotechnology or BTech Biotechnology Engineering is definitely worth it for those who like science and want to use their skills to solve real-world issues and improve the quality of life. It is best to take the help of a professional education consulting firm, which can help you prepare for the right course. Moreover, students must choose an educational institution that helps them grow in the field of biotechnology and become key leaders in the industry.
Author Bio:
The author is an accomplished writer and expert with over a decade of experience in the education industry. She leverages this expertise to guide students in navigating their academic and career choices with confidence.