Biotechnologist
OFO No: 213105
Other names for Biotechnologist:
- Biodiversity Researcher
- Bioinformatician
- Bioprocess Engineer
- Cell Geneticist
- Crop Research Scientist
- Cytotechnologist
- DNA Sequencer
- Fruit Research Scientist
- Genomic Investigator
- Molecular Biologist
- Molecular Geneticist
- Plant Molecular Biologist
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What is a Biotechnologist?
A Biotechnologist is a scientist. Their main job is to study the characteristics of cells in living organisms then modify them for product development or scientific research.
They can work in industries like:
- Medical (eg cures for diseases, or develop medicines/pharmaceuticals etc)
- Food (eg preservatives etc)
- Manufacturing / Health & Safety (eg developing products)
- Agriculture (eg pesticides, genetically modified fruits and vegetables etc)
- Academia / Research (eg studies and writes scientific papers etc)
They often have a postgraduate degree:
- Biology
- Organic Chemistry
- Plant Sciences
- Animal Sciences
What does a Biotechnologist do?
This will depend on what industry they finally work in. Each industry will require very different tasks.
Most Biotechnologist work in laboratory.
Are you . . . ?
- interested in science?
- interested in working in a laboratory?
- detail orientated?
- a problem solver?
- curious?
- a good communicator?
- responsible and reliable?
How do I become a Biotechnologist?
Depending on your field of interest, you will need a degree in the sciences.
Most Biotechnologist have a postgraduate degree in biology and/or chemistry or animal and plant sciences.
Entry level positions in this field are usually laboratory or biotechnology technicians. They usually assist the Biotechnologist.
There are many fields of biotechnology. One usually starts off with a Bachelor of Science which can be done at most universities in South Africa. Once you have your BSc you can then specialise in a variety of areas.
For instance:
- MSc (Wine Biotechnogy) at Stellenbosch University
- BSc (Hons) in Biotechnology from University of Pretoria
Check with your local university what programmes they offer.
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
The South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP)
The minimum qualification required for registration as Certificated Natural Scientist is a 3-year degree/ diploma in the natural sciences
You can be registered as a:
- Certificated Natural Scientists … OR …
- Professional Natural Scientist
The minimum qualification required for registration as Professional Natural Scientist is an honours degree + 3 years post qualification relevant work experience
Only after you have registered with the SACNASP can you put Pr.Sci.Nat. after your name.
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Audiologist or Dental Technician
Is becoming a Biotechnologist the right career choice for me?