Cell biologist: job, responsibility and career guide

How to Become a Cell Biologist: Career Guide

The earlier you can start preparing to become a cell biologist, the better. Planning out your career path while you are still in high school is a great idea if you can pull it off, but if you can’t it’s not a big deal, as there are many things you can do as a university or college student to get a head start on becoming a cell biologist.

How to make cell biology career preparations in high school

Taking courses in math, biology, physics and chemistry is a great way to get a head start on becoming a cell biologist. These courses will give you a solid understanding of the scientific principles applicable to cell biology.

Learn what cell biologists do: Speaking with cell biologists and related scientists can give you a great idea of what it’s like to work in a cell biology career. You can also speak with professionals in related occupations, such as doctors, dentists, pharmacists and veterinarians in order to gain an idea of what other careers in science are like.

Choose a university or college to attend: Deciding where to go to college and what to study is a daunting and thorough task. Make it a little easier on yourself by talking to your school’s guidance counselor. They will be able to help you find schools that suit your professional ambitions and interests, as well as provide you with tips on which programs will be of interest to you.

Get a summer job: Getting a summer job, internship or volunteer experience in a laboratory, medical office, veterinarian’s office or in a similar setting as a high school student can be great exposure to what scientific professionals do.

Education Needed to Become a Cell Biologist

To become a cell biologist, you need to begin by earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology or a closely related field such as Botany or Biochemistry. Completing coursework in biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics, as well as extensive courses about cells, is a great way to build an educational foundation for your prospective career as a cell biologist. Depending on where your career ambitions and interests lie, you will likely need a graduate degree in cell biology to become a cell biologist.

Depending on the requirements of the employer, a Master’s degree in Cell Biology is typically sufficient for many applied research positions. To become a cell biologist who works in research and university teaching positions a PhD in Cell Biology is needed. Cell biologists must also complete continuing education throughout their careers in order to keep their skills current stay up to date with advancements in the field.

Read more at: http://www.academicinvest.com/science-careers/biology-careers/how-to-become-a-cell-biologist

Photo credit: www.western.edu

DNA Analyst: Job, responsibilities and career guide

How to Become a DNA Analyst: Career Path Guide

To become a DNA analyst, you need to first determine if this is a suitable career path for you. Can you handle high-pressure and distressing work conditions? Are you skilled in science and have a patient, methodical approach to analyzing biological samples? If you’ve answered ‘yes’ to these questions, then you may be well suited for a career in this field.

Below we've outlined what you'll need to succeed in a career as a DNA analyst. We've also included helpful information for a DNA analyst career, such as job description, job duties, salary expectations, a list of possible employers and much more!

DNA Analyst Job Description

DNA analysts are responsible for preparing, analyzing tissue samples, and interpreting their results, in order to determine the genetic origins and properties of the sample. As many of the samples they examine are related to criminal evidence, DNA analysts must follow strict protocol when handling and storing the samples, and may be required to testify as expert witnesses on their findings. 

DNA Analyst Job Duties

• Compile tissue and organic samples such as hair follicles, skin cells, bodily fluids and others

• Isolate DNA strands within sample

• Unknown samples are compared against known samples in order to identify matches

• May be required to testify in court regarding findings

• Peer review the work of other DNA analysts; including re-testing samples and double-checking the findings of reports

• Oversee the proper storage of samples (while following very strict protocol)

• Attend seminars, lectures, and forensic functions for the purpose of continuous professional development

Education Needed to Become a DNA Analyst

To become a DNA analyst, you typically need a bachelor's degree related to biology, microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics or forensic sciences.

Coursework that allows you to have a complete understanding of each stage of DNA analysis, as well as be proficient with the procedures, techniques, applications, terms, and scientific principles of DNA analysis will help you break seamlessly into a career as a DNA analyst.

Coursework that is especially helpful includes microbiology, immunology, infectious diseases, gene development and biochemistry. Most university science programs include mandatory participation in laboratory work, which helps students gain experience with laboratory processes, procedures and equipment. 

Read more at: http://www.academicinvest.com/science-careers/biology-careers/how-to-become-a-dna-analyst

Photo credit: www.brownsvilleherald.com

Laboratory manger : Job description and career guide

How To Become a Laboratory Manager: Career Guide

To become a laboratory manager (also known as a laboratory coordinator) you need a combination of having an interest in research, the ability to lead others, industry experience and training, the proper skill set, education, and knowing where to look for a job. Below we've outlined what you'll need to succeed in a career as a laboratory manager. We've also included helpful information for a laboratory manager career, such as job description, job duties, salary expectations, a list of possible employers and much more!

Education Needed to Become a Laboratory Manager

Typically, to become a laboratory manager, you first need to obtain a bachelor of science in the appropriate field. For example, those looking to work as a pharmaceutical lab manager should obtain an undergraduate degree in biochemistry or pharmacy.

Possible fields of study for aspiring lab managers may include, but is not limited to: botany, biology, chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacy and environmental science. Depending on the employer, you may need to have a graduate degree in the appropriate field in order to supervise the functioning of the lab. 

Laboratory Manager Job Description

A laboratory manager, also known as a senior lab technician and laboratory coordinator, is responsible for overseeing the work activities and personnel of a scientific laboratory. Laboratory managers are responsible for organizing and controlling all aspects of a laboratory environment.

Laboratory Manager Job Duties

• Schedule the work activities of laboratory employees

• Make risk assessments for the laboratory and ensure that the company's Health & Safety policy is adhered to

• Determine when the laboratory needs to be open for students or researchers

• Keep track of all laboratory equipment and materials

• May be required to create and follow a budget

• Act as an interface between management or the client and laboratory staff

• Ensure that any personnel using the laboratory adhere to safety policies and procedures

• Ensure the proper handling, storage and disposal of hazardous materials

Read more at: http://www.academicinvest.com/science-careers/chemistry-careers/how-to-become-a-laboratory-manager

Picture credit: investorshub.advfn.com

Molecular Biologist: Job, responsibility and career guide

How to Become a Molecular Biologist: Career Path Guide

If you want to become a molecular biologist, you first need to determine if this career path is a good fit for you. Are you interested in how biological aspects of life forms get passed from generation to generation? Does the idea of performing research that can lead to advancements in medical treatments and other useful products appeal to you? If so, then you’re probably well suited for a career as a molecular biologist!

Below we've outlined what you'll need to succeed in a career as a molecular biologist. We've also included helpful information for this career, such as job description, job duties, salary expectations, a list of possible employers and much more!

Molecular Biologist Job Description

Source: students.lebanese-forces.com

Molecular biologists examine the source of a person or animal’s genetics, variation in genes and genetic expressions. They must determine how biological traits are carried from one generation to another. Molecular biologists also analyze viruses and bacteria. They use this information to assist with the diagnosis and treatment of infections found in humans, plants and animals.

Molecular Biologist Job Duties

• Use specialized equipment such as thermocyclers and chromatograms

• Meticulously follow laboratory health and safety procedure to avoid having health adversely affected by chemicals and harmful biological substances

• Prepare and submit research grants to government agencies, private sponsors and other funding sources

• Prepare detailed reports of research findings

• Communicate findings with other professionals, as they are crucial for doctors and scientists to have an accurate source of information

Read more at: http://www.academicinvest.com/science-careers/biology-careers/how-to-become-a-molecular-biologist

Source: www.infonews.co.nz

Research Assistant: career path guide

How to Become a Research Assistant: Career Path Guide

If you want to become a research assistant in science, business, social science or any other area, you first need to determine if this career path is a good fit for you. If the following description sounds like you, then you’re probably well suited for a career as a research assistant:

Those who become research assistants are typically individuals who would either like to gain more research experience in their chosen field, advance their education in that field, or they may simply enjoy being part of a research team in the field of their interest. Regardless of their individual career ambitions, research assistants typically have a keen interest and an education in the area to which their work in research relates.

Research assistants must be comfortable working in an environment that relates to their field, such as a laboratory, library or an office setting. Research assistants must be trustworthy, punctual and very well organized individuals. They must also be comfortable taking directive from other research assistants and lead researchers, as well communicating their work to others.

Education Needed to Become a Research Assistant

The educational requirements for becoming a research assistant may vary by field of employment, and by specific employer.

Research Assistants in Academia

Research assistants that work in academia are likely students that have already earned a bachelor’s degree in an area that closely relates to their field of work, and are in the process of earning a graduate degree in that field. For example, a research assistant working in the psychology department of a university likely has a bachelor's degree in psychology and is earning a master's or doctoral degree.

Some research assistants may be students that are in the process of earning their bachelor’s degree, although receiving credit towards their degree, rather than receiving financial compensation, usually compensates these research assistants.

Read more at: http://www.academicinvest.com/arts-careers/philosophy-careers/how-to-become-a-research-assistant

Photo credit: medicine.buffalo.edu

Immunologist: job, responsibility and career guide

How to Become an Immunologist: Career Path Guide

If you want to become an immunologist, you first need to determine if this career path is a good fit for you. If the following description sounds like you, then you’re probably well suited for a career as an immunologist:

Those who become immunologists typically have a keen interest in the biological processes of the human body and its immune system. Immunologists that are passionate about understanding what is necessary for an immune system to function properly are typically those that are successful in their careers.  

Immunologists must enjoy conducting research, and they must be very comfortable expressing their professional opinion to other team members, such as those in research, management and public policy related positions.

In addition to an interest in the various elements of the profession, they must have an aptitude for academic work in the areas of molecular biology, immunology and epidemiology, as well as the intellectual and emotional stamina needed to complete the necessary education in these areas.

Immunologist Job Description

Immunologists are responsible for studying the functions of the body’s immune system for the purpose of developing new medical therapies, treatments and vaccines, and for finding ways to improve methods for treating different conditions.

In order to effectively develop these new products and methods, immunologists must investigate the development and effects of abnormal immune responses from the body, which are associated with a variety of conditions including autoimmune diseases, immunodeficiencies, allergies and transplant rejection.

Read more at: http://www.academicinvest.com/science-careers/biology-careers/how-to-become-an-immunologist

Source: blogs.biomedcentral.com

Virlogist: job, responsibility and career

Virologist Job description

Learn how to become a virologist. Research the job description, education requirements, and pros and cons of this career. Read on to find out how to start a career in virology.

What Virologist do: 

Virologists study viruses that affect humans, animals, insects, bacteria, fungi, and plants in community, clinical, agricultural, and natural environments. Virologists typically work in research or teaching, and many split their time between these two activities. Virologists may also work as science writers or pursue additional training to work in pharmaceutical business or law. Researchers may be employed by universities, government agencies, or health organizations. Some virologists work in industry research and develop new medications.

Medical doctors focusing on virology may carry out clinical research or work with patients afflicted with viruses. Virology researchers work under a broad range of issues including viral pathology, viral oncology, emerging viruses, virotherapy, viral replication, virus-cell interactions, and plant virology.

Because virologists work with infectious microorganisms, there is a small risk of illness, but preventative measures minimize that risk. Virologists work in office and laboratory settings, though a few may take samples in the field. Virologists, like other microbiologists, work on a full-time basis and usually collaborate with other scientists.

Career Requirements

Degree Level	M.D. and/or Ph.D. with postdoctoral training
Degree Field	Virology, molecular virology, viral oncology, immunology
Licensure	Virologists with M.D. degrees must earn medical licenses
Experience	3-5 years postdoctoral research experience
Key Skills	Observation, communication, analysis, critical thinking, reasoning, problem solving, perseverance, scientific and medical software, which may include: BD Biosciences CellQuest, Protein Explorer, Computer Service & Support CLS-2000 Laboratory System, Orchard Software Orchard Harvest LIS, TreeView, and Verity Software House ModFit LT, laboratory equipment and tools, which may include: air samplers or collectors, infrared spectrometers, analyzing equipment, and sterilizing equipment
Salary (2014)	$187,199 was the median for various types of physicians and surgeons; $67,790 was the median for microbiologists

Sources: American Society for Virology, Virology doctoral and postdoctoral programs, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, ONet Online

See more at : http://study.com/articles/Become_a_Virologist_Education_and_Career_Roadmap.html

Virus 3D imaginary structure
Source: www.careersinpublichealth.net