The field of Biotechnology can cover many different areas and aspects. Anything that is organic and artificially created falls under this field. It can also cover areas such as agriculture, genetics, medical fields, and livestock. Many of the advances that have been made in the past 30 years are due to successes in the field of Biotechnology.
Finding your place in this field usually means starting out on a long period of advanced learning. Typically you'll want at least a bachelor's degree and several associates depending on the position you're applying for. Trying to break into the field without an education will typically lead to not getting very far. Strong math and science skills are required for many positions and it's not something you can improvise on.
Of course one of the most important aspects to getting biotech jobs of any kind is patience. Biotechnology jobs typically involve very delicate time consuming work so being an impatient person isn't recommended. There are other positions besides lab work but lab techs tend to make the most money. However due to the nature of the field that shouldn't be the deciding factor for wanting to work in it.
In recent years biotechnology has found a place in green energy. Many biotech farms are exploring the uses of algae and others alternative plants as a source of fuel. Due to the nature of algae it can be easily grown and is easily renewable. When compared to using other crops for a fuel supply it becomes apparent why so many are enthusiastic about the line of research.
Jobs in this area also require a great understanding of chemistry. When dealing with the application of artificially made organic materials to any food or agricultural product you need to have an understanding of how chemicals interact. Modifying a food one way may yield massive benefits. Modifying it another way may make it harmful and therefore useless to the general public.
Genetic engineering is also one of the top biotech jobs. This may bring to mind an image of crazy scientists in a science fiction story but it's far from fiction. We've been using this field for years to engineer our cattle to grow larger and our crops to give better yields. Due to overpopulation and inadequate food supplies this field is receiving a lot of funding and attention. Biotechnology jobs are highly sought after positions, and if you want to land one you have to be able to do more than wear a suit and say the right things.
You need to be able to show that you can do the work better, and faster than everyone else. You also have to show that you're reliable and can be trusted with complicated tasks. Working in this field can lead you to some exciting career paths, and even some groundbreaking discoveries. It branches into many different areas from agricultural to engineering. The rewards for this type of work are well worth the long wait.
