🔬 What is Biotechnology?
Biotechnology uses living organisms, cells, and biological systems to develop products and technologies. This can involve:
- Genetic engineering
- Drug development
- Vaccine production
- Agricultural biotech (GMO crops, pest-resistant plants)
- Environmental biotech (waste treatment, biofuels)
🎓 Education & Background
To get into biotech, a background in life sciences is essential. Typical degrees include:
- B.Sc / M.Sc in Biotechnology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or Life Sciences
- B.Tech / M.Tech in Biotechnology
- Specialized certifications or training in fields like Clinical Research, Bioinformatics, Regulatory Affairs, etc.
🧪 Career Areas in Biotechnology
- Research & Development (R&D)
- Drug discovery, genetic research, vaccine development
- Clinical Research
- Clinical trials, pharmacovigilance, regulatory affairs
- Quality Control/Assurance
- Ensuring product safety and regulatory compliance
- Production & Manufacturing
- Large-scale production of biotech products like biologics
- Sales & Marketing
- Technical sales, product promotion for biotech equipment and drugs
- Regulatory Affairs
- Ensuring all biotech products meet government regulations
🏢 Top Employers
- Pharmaceutical companies (e.g., Pfizer, Biocon, Dr. Reddy’s)
- Biotech firms (e.g., Syngene, Bharat Biotech)
- Clinical Research Organizations (e.g., IQVIA, PPD)
- Research institutes (e.g., CSIR, ICMR)
- Government labs & universities
💼 Job Roles
- Biotech Research Associate / Scientist
- Clinical Research Associate (CRA)
- Regulatory Affairs Specialist
- QA/QC Analyst
- Bioprocess Engineer
- Medical Science Liaison
- Bioinformatics Analyst
💸 Salary Range (India – Approximate)
- Entry level (Fresher): ₹3 – ₹5 LPA
- Mid level (3–5 yrs): ₹6 – ₹12 LPA
- Senior level: ₹15+ LPA depending on role and company
🚀 Future Scope
Biotech is booming, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Fields like:
- Genomics & Precision Medicine
- Stem Cell Research
- Bioinformatics & AI
- Vaccine Development are rapidly growing.
