The UN convention on Biological Diversity has defined Biotechnology as "'Biotechnology' means any technological application that uses biological systems, living organisms, or derivatives thereof, to make or modify products or processes for specific use".Biotechnology is a multidisciplinary subject. The European Federation of Biotechnology (EFB) considers biotechnology as 'the integration of natural sciences and organisms, cells, parts thereof and molecular analogues for products and services.' As we have seen from the definition of Biotechnology, it spreads over a wide spectrum of technologies. The key constituents of Biotechnology are: Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular and cell Biology, Human, Animal and Plant Physiology. Biotech industry now has almost captured every sphere of human life. The industry segment is vast. To find the key trends of the industry and the market segment it covers, I will give a broad spectrum of applications of Biotechnology and its market segment. Bioprocess Technology: Better know as fermentation technology.
Biotechnology combines the study of biological sciences with technological advances to find solutions to important societal and scientific issues. Biotechnology is especially useful in research and development related to medicine and pharmaceuticals, agriculture, food production, forensics, wildlife conservation, and biological studies.
The field of biotechnology is the ultimate frontier of scientific and technological studies. Biotechnology can aptly be described as a subject that requires a multidisciplinary approach to innovation and development. Those in the industry study the basic elements of matter, such as tissues, cells, and even smaller components of life, to provide solutions to industrial and scientific problems.
Currently, biotechnology is a multidisciplinary domain in the United States. Therefore, diverse educational options exist in the field across the country. There is a growing need to produce skilled graduates who can cater to the career-related demands of the industry.
The key aim of biotechnology programs is to ensure core competence in the field of biotechnology. Diverse objectives include preparing researchers, managers, technicians, and other professionals to fuel the surge in the biotechnology industry. Biotechnology graduates may also elect to pursue higher qualifications in such fields as biophysical science, mechanical engineering, and computing.
Educational programs range from certificate and bachelor's degree programs to master's and doctoral degree programs. To cater to the managerial and leadership needs of the biotechnology industry, some universities offer dual degree programs as well. These programs include managerial preparation along with biotechnology training.
Presently, the biotechnology industry offers a variety of career options for biophysical science, agricultural scientists, general practitioners, forensic scientists, laboratory technologists, and veterinarians.
More and more career options are opening up in the industry. Biotechnology graduates with some experience can expect to find employment as bioinformaticians, consultants, and industry researchers. Biotechnology graduates with management skills can expect to find employment as biotechnology consultants and biotechnology directors.
Although biotechnology has conventionally retained its identity as an academic domain, there is a growing demand for highly educated professionals in biotechnology businesses. Presently, there are around 1,500 biotechnology companies in the United States. Together, their business totals more than $40 billion.
There is a growing need to meet the growing demand for biotechnology professionals and qualified graduates produced by universities in the United States. However, most biotechnology professionals attuned to academic lifestyles are finding the change drastic due to industry expectations with regard to returns on investment.
Businesses cannot afford to lose good scientists with sound academic and research credentials. What is required is simply adaptation to the business aspects of biotechnology. Therefore, even if biotechnology scientists do not display entrepreneurial desires, a series of short-term training programs can help fill the gap between academics and business.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Monday, September 22, 2008
Private-Public Sector Partnership Necessary in Biotechnology Research
There are very interesting developments in the field of agricultural biotechnology currently taking place in India.The Maharashtra Hybrid Seed Company (Mahyco) has offered to transfer the technology and basic breeding material of Bt Brinjal, a low calorie vegetable widely grown in India, to two public sector institutions; The Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (TNAU) and the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad (UASD).The public sector institutions will not pay any royalty as long as they don’t commercialize the genetically modified Brinjal. This is a very unusual, but highly significant gesture.Private seed companies, especially in the field of biotechnology, are not known to freely share innovational information with public organizations. They keep such information under a lock and key for fear of patent infringement. While this is understandable, it has fueled animosity and suspicions among scientists working in public institutions, especially in developing countries.Obviously, no company would be willing to invest billions of dollars to develop new seed varieties only for an armchair scientist to copy cat them. But the need to safeguard proprietary information shouldn’t override the desire for seed companies to partner with public institutions. Doing so will deny the anti-biotech crowd a chance to characterize biotech companies as selfish and secretive.Mahyco has set a good example that all biotechnology seed companies should follow. Biotech companies stand to benefit if they open their doors wider to public institutions. This is especially critical in Africa where genetically modified crops are yet to make major inroads.It can’t be gainsaid that there is already such partnership going on in Africa. In Kenya, for example, the Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI) is working closely with biotech seed companies in the development of genetically modified maize resistant to stem borers. But more such partnership is needed to accelerate the adoption of genetically modified crops in developing countries.
The Future Of Biotechnology Jobs In The UK
Science and technology have become fused in many ways throughout the United Kingdom. Medical technology has advanced immeasurably, applying electronics and computing to assist in many forms of diagnostic equipment and tests. Pharmaceutical companies facilitate their ability to compete in a difficult global marketplace by investing in mobile computers and PDAs for personnel in order to enable them to carry full information and present their product lines. Chemical engineering departments throughout the UK are utilising highly advanced equipment, often linked to computer technology, in the course of their work. One result of this growth in the application of technology , in particular for medical science, is the creation of a vibrant biotechnology job market in the UK.Biotechnology may be regarded as the combination of technology and living organisms in the interest of scientific endeavour and advancement. The efforts mentioned above are only a few examples of the jobs available to graduates interested in this burgeoning field. The biotechnology job market, however, is a difficult one to assess for young professionals since it is a relatively new field in the private sector. However, an astute biotechnology engineer or consultant may appraise job prospects by looking at three key branches of this scientific field.Red biotechnological endeavours are those that involve the medical profession. These scientific efforts have produced amazing results, including advancement in the use of living organisms to create antibodies and the generation of new vaccines. The medical profession is grappling with the ethics of certain aspects of biotechnology, including manipulation of genes by powerful computer-aided operations. However, professionals with a medical background and an understanding of information technology will be able to take advantage of the fact that red biotechnology will expand further in the future.Many manufacturers and industrial facilities are beginning to utilise gray biotechnology in order to cut overhead costs and improve environmental protection. Gray biotechnological professionals, like chemical and production engineers, look to the enhanced use of living organisms to make processes easier and more acceptable. Facilities that treat sewage and water, for example, can use certain bacteria in the filtration process to eliminate harmful organisms before they reach the public. These positions are perhaps the most prevalent in the United Kingdom and biotech professionals interested in this field may benefit accordingly.Green biotechnology, which provides assistance to farms and agricultural businesses, is a specific aspect of this scientific field. Biotechnology used on the farm includes the creation of plants that can endure a variety of meteorological conditions and the use of treatment options on products to be sold for public consumption. Agricultural jobs are at a premium in the United Kingdom but biotech professionals with a background in agriculture are usually assured of long term career success. Leading stores and other food providers rely on green biotechnology for the consistency of many of their food products.Article Source: U Publish Articles by Stephen Trigg
The Future Of Biotechnology Jobs In The UK
Science and technology have become fused in many ways throughout the United Kingdom. Medical technology has advanced immeasurably, applying electronics and computing to assist in many forms of diagnostic equipment and tests. Pharmaceutical companies facilitate their ability to compete in a difficult global marketplace by investing in mobile computers and PDAs for personnel in order to enable them to carry full information and present their product lines. Chemical engineering departments throughout the UK are utilising highly advanced equipment, often linked to computer technology, in the course of their work. One result of this growth in the application of technology , in particular for medical science, is the creation of a vibrant biotechnology job market in the UK.Biotechnology may be regarded as the combination of technology and living organisms in the interest of scientific endeavour and advancement. The efforts mentioned above are only a few examples of the jobs available to graduates interested in this burgeoning field. The biotechnology job market, however, is a difficult one to assess for young professionals since it is a relatively new field in the private sector. However, an astute biotechnology engineer or consultant may appraise job prospects by looking at three key branches of this scientific field.Red biotechnological endeavours are those that involve the medical profession. These scientific efforts have produced amazing results, including advancement in the use of living organisms to create antibodies and the generation of new vaccines. The medical profession is grappling with the ethics of certain aspects of biotechnology, including manipulation of genes by powerful computer-aided operations. However, professionals with a medical background and an understanding of information technology will be able to take advantage of the fact that red biotechnology will expand further in the future.Many manufacturers and industrial facilities are beginning to utilise gray biotechnology in order to cut overhead costs and improve environmental protection. Gray biotechnological professionals, like chemical and production engineers, look to the enhanced use of living organisms to make processes easier and more acceptable. Facilities that treat sewage and water, for example, can use certain bacteria in the filtration process to eliminate harmful organisms before they reach the public. These positions are perhaps the most prevalent in the United Kingdom and biotech professionals interested in this field may benefit accordingly.Green biotechnology, which provides assistance to farms and agricultural businesses, is a specific aspect of this scientific field. Biotechnology used on the farm includes the creation of plants that can endure a variety of meteorological conditions and the use of treatment options on products to be sold for public consumption. Agricultural jobs are at a premium in the United Kingdom but biotech professionals with a background in agriculture are usually assured of long term career success. Leading stores and other food providers rely on green biotechnology for the consistency of many of their food products.Article Source: U Publish Articles by Stephen Trigg
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Introduction of biotechnology
The UN convention on Biological Diversity has defined Biotechnology as "'Biotechnology' means any technological application that uses biological systems, living organisms, or derivatives thereof, to make or modify products or processes for specific use".Biotechnology is a multidisciplinary subject. The European Federation of Biotechnology (EFB) considers biotechnology as 'the integration of natural sciences and organisms, cells, parts thereof and molecular analogues for products and services.' As we have seen from the definition of Biotechnology, it spreads over a wide spectrum of technologies. The key constituents of Biotechnology are: Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular and cell Biology, Human, Animal and Plant Physiology. Biotech industry now has almost captured every sphere of human life. The industry segment is vast. To find the key trends of the industry and the market segment it covers, I will give a broad spectrum of applications of Biotechnology and its market segment. Bioprocess Technology: Better know as fermentation technology. Traditional forms of bioprocess technology related to food and beverages, but new products are increasingly being derived from microbial and mammalian fermentations. Bioprocess technology is increasingly using cells derived from higher plants and animals to produce many important products, foods and beverages. Enzyme Technology: Food production and preservation, improvement of the environment, and other medical sectors. Waste Technology: Biotechnologyis used to produce Single cell protein (SCP) from organic wastes. SCP is used as protein supplement for animals and human. The waste technology is also supplementary to Environmental and Energy Technology, giving rapid progress in these two segments. Environmental Technology; Waste water and sewerage treatment, Landfill technologies, composting, bioremediation, Detection and monitoring pollutants, microbes and geological environment, environmental sustainability and clean technology. Resources Technology: The use of biomass as a source of energy supplements the use of fossil fuel. Plant, animal, agriculture: Plant Biotechnology, Improved varieties of agricultural products using tissue culture, improved resistance to specific herbicides, improved resistance to insects, pests and microbial diseases, improved post harvest characteristics, production of high values oil products, forest biotechnology, biological control, animal biotechnology, genetic engineering for transgenic animals, genetically engineered hormones and vaccines, animal organs for human patients, diagnostic in agriculture, genetically developed seeds, Health care: New products based on biotechnology are appearing almost daily in the market place, These includes therapeutic products, pre-natal diagnosis of genetic diseases, vaccines, immunodiagnostic and DNA probe of disease identification, and genetic therapy. The use of Antibiotics, Vaccines and monoclonal antibodies, Biopharmaceuticals, insulin, somatostain, interferons, lympokines, Gene therapy are giving new impetus to fight the diseases like AIDS, cancer etc. This is one of the most important segments of market, where Biotechnology is going to take over completely. Crime detection and identity verification: This segment deals with use of genetics for crime detection. Metal recovery; Genetically designed microbes are used in the process of extracting oil from ground and metals from factory waste. Today Biotech industry has penetrated in every sphere of human life. While looking into the market segment and key trend in Biotech industry, we need to consider another factor of the use of Biotechnology, which is gaining momentum over the years, i.e. ethical questions arising out of use of Biotechnology. There is a group of population, who are against use of genetically developed fruits and vegetables. There is going to be an influence of this sentiment in deriving the market segment of Biotech industry. However the positive use of Biotechnology too great, and we can look forward for new additions of Products and Services using Biotechnology.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
The Future Of Biotechnology Jobs In The UK
Science and technology have become fused in many ways throughout the United Kingdom. Medical technology has advanced immeasurably, applying electronics and computing to assist in many forms of diagnostic equipment and tests. Pharmaceutical companies facilitate their ability to compete in a difficult global marketplace by investing in mobile computers and PDAs for personnel in order to enable them to carry full information and present their product lines. Chemical engineering departments throughout the UK are utilising highly advanced equipment, often linked to computer technology, in the course of their work. One result of this growth in the application of technology , in particular for medical science, is the creation of a vibrant biotechnology job market in the UK.Biotechnology may be regarded as the combination of technology and living organisms in the interest of scientific endeavour and advancement. The efforts mentioned above are only a few examples of the jobs available to graduates interested in this burgeoning field. The biotechnology job market, however, is a difficult one to assess for young professionals since it is a relatively new field in the private sector. However, an astute biotechnology engineer or consultant may appraise job prospects by looking at three key branches of this scientific field.Red biotechnological endeavours are those that involve the medical profession. These scientific efforts have produced amazing results, including advancement in the use of living organisms to create antibodies and the generation of new vaccines. The medical profession is grappling with the ethics of certain aspects of biotechnology, including manipulation of genes by powerful computer-aided operations. However, professionals with a medical background and an understanding of information technology will be able to take advantage of the fact that red biotechnology will expand further in the future.Many manufacturers and industrial facilities are beginning to utilise gray biotechnology in order to cut overhead costs and improve environmental protection. Gray biotechnological professionals, like chemical and production engineers, look to the enhanced use of living organisms to make processes easier and more acceptable. Facilities that treat sewage and water, for example, can use certain bacteria in the filtration process to eliminate harmful organisms before they reach the public. These positions are perhaps the most prevalent in the United Kingdom and biotech professionals interested in this field may benefit accordingly.Green biotechnology, which provides assistance to farms and agricultural businesses, is a specific aspect of this scientific field. Biotechnology used on the farm includes the creation of plants that can endure a variety of meteorological conditions and the use of treatment options on products to be sold for public consumption. Agricultural jobs are at a premium in the United Kingdom but biotech professionals with a background in agriculture are usually assured of long term career success. Leading stores and other food providers rely on green biotechnology for the consistency of many of their food products.Article Source: U Publish Articles by Stephen Trigg
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Farm Subsidies Can Threaten Biotechnology In African Countries
There is growing consensus that modern biotechnology holds the key to sustainable development. This is, especially, in the light of the fact that the world's population is fast growing without corresponding land expansion. Modern biotechnology is considered cost effective and therefore very applicable to poor resource farming. Scientific evidence exist that associate genetically modified crops with high yields. This explains why Sub-Saharan Africa, long ravaged by drought and famine is being encouraged to embrace modern biotechnology.
Modern biotechnology is already dominant in the US, Canada, Spain, Mexico, China, Argentina, and Brazil. These countries not only produce enough for their domestic consumption but also for export. Perhaps, this is the most significant aspect of GM cultivation. For without ready market surplus yields would go to waste. I raise this issue because the current trade imbalance threatens to imperil North-South technology transfer. This is especially critical in Africa, which for many years has been struggling to penetrate oversees markets with little success.
Let me illustrate this point. Currently, the US and Europe are involved in a bitter trade war with four West African countries - Burkina Faso, Benin, Chad and Mali, over subsidies they offer their cotton farmers. The four West African countries, popularly known as C4 attribute low cotton prices, which are seriously strangling their farmers, on these subsidies. Subsidies are meant to ensure that farmers always get value for their farm investments. They don't have to worry about price fluctuations for they are guaranteed of compensation by their governments.
The current arrangement where the US and Europe heavily subsidize their cotton farmers heavily disadvantages their counterparts poor countries whose governments cannot afford subsidies! Their cotton ends up fetching little money, effectively making its farming unsustainable. The once white gold of West Africa is about to turn to dust. This is unacceptable for it means bankrupting the economies of these already poor countries. Twelve out of the 15 Economic Commission for West African States (Ecowas) states are considered least developed. Don't rich countries feel that they have a contribution to make to extricate these countries from the yokes of poverty?
In Benin and Burkina Faso, cotton accounts for about 40 per cent of merchandise export earnings, while in Mali and Chad it accounts for 30 per cent. Cotton, is, therefore the back bone of the economies of these countries.
It is instructive to note that direct losses to West Africa as a result of US and EU subsidies are estimated at $250 million per annum. The US, alone, in the 2001-2002 season subsidized its cotton farmers to the tune of $2.3 billion. The economic damage wrought on these countries by subsidies is unfathomable. Action is urgently needed and the US and Europe must come to their rescue.
These West African countries have now petitioned the World Trade Organization (WTO) to correct this trade imbalance. Sadly, the US and Europe are busy digging their heels to frustrate them. Their action is ill-advised and in bad faith.
During the September 2003 WTO Cancun ministerial conference, the US government proposed that the West African countries diversify from cotton growing. Why should these countries diversify from cotton farming? This defeats the very spirit of modern biotechnology which, among other benefits, guarantee farmers high yields.
As one of the strategy to help cotton farmers improve their cotton farming, the US, through the powerful International Cotton Advisory Committee and United States Agency for International Development (Usaid) is offering to share biotechnology breakthroughs with them. This transfer of technology, as a matter of fact, will lead to high yields. Where are they expected to take their surplus cotton if the global market for this product remains tilted in favor of the US and Europe?
There is general goodwill on the part of African countries to embrace modern biotechnology. Some West African countries, notably Mali and Burkina Faso, are already experimenting on Bacillus thurigiensis (Bt) Cotton in the hope of improving their cotton farming. The best way for the US and Europe to encourage poor countries to embrace modern biotechnology is to guarantee them ready market for their farm produce. Removing farm subsidies is the first step towards achieving this goal.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
The benefits of biotechnology investing
an has been looking since ages to find newer cures and bring about a marked advancement in the filed of medical applications. In the last few years, biotechnology has contributed significantly towards this field.
There have been significant developments in biotechnology making it one of the most lucrative investment options. Yes, biotechnology investing is considered to be the future by many investment experts.
Most venture capitalists today are looking at biotechnology companies in a different light. The opportunities for investors to generate impressive revenue growth are one of the prime reasons why this has happened.
Also the trend to spend till we get the best in health care is another reason. Man does not like to compromise when it comes to good health and biotechnology has been one of the chief gainers of this principle.
Why Biotech?
There are many small biotech companies who are waiting for that golden opportunity. Some of these companies have displayed their flair and skill in just a few years of their existence.
With the right investors these companies can work wonders. Who knows, the drug for Alzheimer’s or cancer might just be underway in some of these companies.
From a business point of view, such a drug can be the single factor that will power you from rags to riches.
But biotechnology investing is not that easy. It is a task that requires a set of special skills so that you can spot the best company instantly.
Finding the right company to invest
There are many companies who will make the job of biotechnology investing easier for you, the investor.
These companies have the scientific, medical and financial experts who will analyze most biotech companies giving you comprehensive advice on which company to invest in.
With just a clinical trial, these analysts will help you determine what future prospects the company holds.
For more Information on bio technology investing
Visit http://www.ibfconferences.com .
There have been significant developments in biotechnology making it one of the most lucrative investment options. Yes, biotechnology investing is considered to be the future by many investment experts.
Most venture capitalists today are looking at biotechnology companies in a different light. The opportunities for investors to generate impressive revenue growth are one of the prime reasons why this has happened.
Also the trend to spend till we get the best in health care is another reason. Man does not like to compromise when it comes to good health and biotechnology has been one of the chief gainers of this principle.
Why Biotech?
There are many small biotech companies who are waiting for that golden opportunity. Some of these companies have displayed their flair and skill in just a few years of their existence.
With the right investors these companies can work wonders. Who knows, the drug for Alzheimer’s or cancer might just be underway in some of these companies.
From a business point of view, such a drug can be the single factor that will power you from rags to riches.
But biotechnology investing is not that easy. It is a task that requires a set of special skills so that you can spot the best company instantly.
Finding the right company to invest
There are many companies who will make the job of biotechnology investing easier for you, the investor.
These companies have the scientific, medical and financial experts who will analyze most biotech companies giving you comprehensive advice on which company to invest in.
With just a clinical trial, these analysts will help you determine what future prospects the company holds.
For more Information on bio technology investing
Visit http://www.ibfconferences.com .
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Biotechnology - Career in Research and Development:
Taking up a job in biotechnology means involving oneself in the development of new products and processes for the good of mankind and quality of life. Before one seriously considers a career in biotechnology, it is imperative to have extensive knowledge in biology, chemistry, and other life sciences.
Biotechnology also has a deep impact on other areas such as human health careers which involves detecting and treating hereditary diseases, cancer, heart disease, AIDS, etc; in Veterinary Medicine, Animal Science, and Livestock Production; and in Agriculture and Plant Science.
A biotechnology company has a number of divisions, each performing different tasks and functions.
Career in Research and Development:
Like any other company, a biotechnology company also needs a qualified team of researchers to represent its future. While some researches may focus on a specific application, some may be carried out for acquiring new knowledge which may not need immediate application. Researchers may also work in academic environments such as universities or within the premises of the company setup. The most important thing is that research and product development form the foundation and basis of any biotechnological setup.
Career in Production and quality control:
People who have extensive knowledge of engineering or industrial-manufacturing technology are required by biotechnological firms in production and manufacturing. In order to make sure the finished products meet specifications, a group or team of quality assurance look after the production process, research and development. This group of experts belongs to the quality control division.
Career in Management:
Biotechnology companies need managers who can supervise the working of the company such as Research and Development, Production, and Quality Control. These people are often Ph.D. level scientists who have worked their way up through special achievements or accomplishments. They may also have business training and experience sometimes.
Career in Sales and Marketing:
Market researchers analyze, assess and estimate the need for a specific product and it would sell. They advertise and promote, and try to find new markets for products already being sold. Salespersons deal directly with consumers by selling, getting feedbacks etc, and are the most visible representatives of the biotechnology company.
Career in Regulatory Affairs
Since all biotechnology companies, especially agricultural and pharmaceutical, are regulated by federal and state agencies such as FDA, EPA, and USDA regarding the safety, ethics etc of manufacturing and products, they need a team of experts and specialists to make sure the company follows all regulations laid down by these agencies.
Career in Legal Affairs:
Any invention or discovery is not safe from copyright infringement without the proper patent. Since biotechnology companies and firms are continually engaged in the search for newer and better products, they need people specializing in law to prepare patent application, or keep track of patent laws.
Career in Public Relations, Communications, and Training:
Biotechnology companies must be able to relay information to the public or other agencies in a language they will understand because biotechnology involves the use of technical terms much of the time. They must also be able to convince others on the credibility and usefulness of their products. As the company grows bigger, the scope of its recruitment also grows along with it. This would imply the need for more training and staff development, and hence more trainers.
Author: Andrew Green
Biotechnology also has a deep impact on other areas such as human health careers which involves detecting and treating hereditary diseases, cancer, heart disease, AIDS, etc; in Veterinary Medicine, Animal Science, and Livestock Production; and in Agriculture and Plant Science.
A biotechnology company has a number of divisions, each performing different tasks and functions.
Career in Research and Development:
Like any other company, a biotechnology company also needs a qualified team of researchers to represent its future. While some researches may focus on a specific application, some may be carried out for acquiring new knowledge which may not need immediate application. Researchers may also work in academic environments such as universities or within the premises of the company setup. The most important thing is that research and product development form the foundation and basis of any biotechnological setup.
Career in Production and quality control:
People who have extensive knowledge of engineering or industrial-manufacturing technology are required by biotechnological firms in production and manufacturing. In order to make sure the finished products meet specifications, a group or team of quality assurance look after the production process, research and development. This group of experts belongs to the quality control division.
Career in Management:
Biotechnology companies need managers who can supervise the working of the company such as Research and Development, Production, and Quality Control. These people are often Ph.D. level scientists who have worked their way up through special achievements or accomplishments. They may also have business training and experience sometimes.
Career in Sales and Marketing:
Market researchers analyze, assess and estimate the need for a specific product and it would sell. They advertise and promote, and try to find new markets for products already being sold. Salespersons deal directly with consumers by selling, getting feedbacks etc, and are the most visible representatives of the biotechnology company.
Career in Regulatory Affairs
Since all biotechnology companies, especially agricultural and pharmaceutical, are regulated by federal and state agencies such as FDA, EPA, and USDA regarding the safety, ethics etc of manufacturing and products, they need a team of experts and specialists to make sure the company follows all regulations laid down by these agencies.
Career in Legal Affairs:
Any invention or discovery is not safe from copyright infringement without the proper patent. Since biotechnology companies and firms are continually engaged in the search for newer and better products, they need people specializing in law to prepare patent application, or keep track of patent laws.
Career in Public Relations, Communications, and Training:
Biotechnology companies must be able to relay information to the public or other agencies in a language they will understand because biotechnology involves the use of technical terms much of the time. They must also be able to convince others on the credibility and usefulness of their products. As the company grows bigger, the scope of its recruitment also grows along with it. This would imply the need for more training and staff development, and hence more trainers.
Author: Andrew Green
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Australian researcher wants more young people to study science
Australian researcher wants
more young people to study science
By James Njoroge
There�s
this article about Professor Wynne Jones, of Harper Adams University College
in Australia, urging young people to study science. Actually, this is not the
main theme of the article: It�s about the controversy surrounding genetically
modified
GM foods, and how it can be solved through public education.
Jones sneaks in the idea of
egging on young people to study science and technology so that that they can
lead this campaign, a theory I�ve not heard since I started blogging about
agricultural biotechnology. And I�ve not come across a study that shows young
scientists can execute public awareness campaigns about agricultural
biotechnology, or any other controversial scientific innovations, than their
older counterparts.
In this article, Jones
rightly argues the world would be a better place if more young people study
science and technology. Apart from gaining scientific knowledge for their career
and professional development, Jones further argues, these young scientists - as
a service to the community - would be invaluable asset in educating the public
about new scientific innovation.
Jones says the debate about
genetically modified foods can greatly benefit from young scientists. They�ve
the energy and tact to convince a wary public that modern agricultural
biotechnology has great potential.
�It�s up to us as
educationalists and scientists to inform the public and have a debate based on
fact and not heated emotions,� Says Jones referring to the confusion surrounding
genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Jones can�t be further from
right on this issue. More education and awareness about
GMOs is needed. As I�ve repeatedly argued on this blog, the public has been
denied education about GMOs. And to blame for this situation are scientists who
always shy away from confronting those who try to distort their work. As Jones
puts it, it�s high time they fill up the plate.
James
Njoroge authors the
GMO Africa blog which enhances public understanding of
agricultural biotechnology. More on the Web at
more young people to study science
By James Njoroge
There�s
this article about Professor Wynne Jones, of Harper Adams University College
in Australia, urging young people to study science. Actually, this is not the
main theme of the article: It�s about the controversy surrounding genetically
modified
GM foods, and how it can be solved through public education.
Jones sneaks in the idea of
egging on young people to study science and technology so that that they can
lead this campaign, a theory I�ve not heard since I started blogging about
agricultural biotechnology. And I�ve not come across a study that shows young
scientists can execute public awareness campaigns about agricultural
biotechnology, or any other controversial scientific innovations, than their
older counterparts.
In this article, Jones
rightly argues the world would be a better place if more young people study
science and technology. Apart from gaining scientific knowledge for their career
and professional development, Jones further argues, these young scientists - as
a service to the community - would be invaluable asset in educating the public
about new scientific innovation.
Jones says the debate about
genetically modified foods can greatly benefit from young scientists. They�ve
the energy and tact to convince a wary public that modern agricultural
biotechnology has great potential.
�It�s up to us as
educationalists and scientists to inform the public and have a debate based on
fact and not heated emotions,� Says Jones referring to the confusion surrounding
genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Jones can�t be further from
right on this issue. More education and awareness about
GMOs is needed. As I�ve repeatedly argued on this blog, the public has been
denied education about GMOs. And to blame for this situation are scientists who
always shy away from confronting those who try to distort their work. As Jones
puts it, it�s high time they fill up the plate.
James
Njoroge authors the
GMO Africa blog which enhances public understanding of
agricultural biotechnology. More on the Web at
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