Biotechnology

Biotechnology took root when James Watson and Francis Crick discovered the structure of human DNA. It really took off when insulin, a vital human protein, was first made from bacteria in 1978. Ever since, biotechnology has pioneered new medicines and biological products by searching genes, cells, and bacteria for clues as to how to prevent disease and ways to make new drugs.

In addition to medicine, advances in biotechnology have had a huge impact on other fields. DNA testing in crime labs, the complete mapping of the human genome, new ways to strengthen the immune system, cloning, engineering human tissue, genetically modified plants and food, and biological weapons and defense systems — all are a result of biotechnology.

Careers in biotechnology tend to be in either research or manufacturing. On the research side, bioengineers are discovering new drugs and vaccines, and ways to detect genetic risks. On the manufacturing side, they're making biomaterials like ceramic hip joints and eye implants to reverse blindness. Because some byproducts of biotechnology, like genetically engineered foods, spark controversy, bioengineers and technicians must weigh the long-term risks and benefits in order to get the necessary funding and FDA approval.

Additional resources:
Bio-Link: A National Advanced Technology Center for Biotechnology
http://www.bio-link.org



Common Jobs:
- Quality Control Technician
- Manufacturing Technician
- Laboratory Assistant