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Biotechnology is an exciting and challeging field that is constantly changing. If you are interested in pursuing a career in biotechnology, you should begin preparing now! The following information provides an education and training guideline that you can follow in your quest. |
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Pay attention in all science and math classes; try to get As and Bs! But remember that you need to communicate well too. Practice writing and speaking / debating.
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Take basic and upper level biology courses (especially biochemistry or molecular biology, or lab-classes if available).
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If you can, take higher math courses, too - at least geometry and intermediate algebra (calculus good, but don't worry if you think it is not feasible).
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See if a nearby college has volunteer laboratory positions or summer research experiences available (call the various science departmental offices or Dean's offices - ask around). Remember that we all start at the "bottom" until we learn the basics.
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Read the science and technology sections of the newspaper or magazines.
GEN - Genetic Engineering News
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Know how to use a computer to search for information on the World Wide Web (at sites like PubMed), to make text reports, and to create simple graphics.
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Most exciting jobs require at least 2 to 4 years of college. When you are a junior, take the practice SAT and/or get ready for the advanced placement tests for college.
Practice SAT
Advanced Placement
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The question "What do students with interest in biotechnology need to know?" was posed to members of the local biotechnology business community. To summarize their responses, the top requirements were: |
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a broad and deep knowledge of basic and advanced principles of molecular biology, biochemistry, and immunology,
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an awareness of commercially relevant biotechnology applications (see advanced information),
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an understanding of intellectual property issues with focus on the recognition of patentibility and the patent procurement procedure,
Patent and Trademark Office
 DNAPatent.com
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a familiarity with the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) processes for approval of therapeutics and diagnostics, and
Food and Drug Administration
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the ability to relate ideas to the business world.
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I would like to know how to prepare for a career performing:
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For a general source of all sorts of up to date news on science, business, and the reality of biotechnology visit: GEN - Genetic Engineering News
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