A matter of genes!

Genetics is a subject that delves into life. New experiments and revelations only seek to uncover the mystery of life. It's a living science that offers new hope to the living and learns from the past.

If you have always wondered about the mysteries of life, especially the sort that makes the human body work, whether we share any similarities with the animal and plant kingdom, how do people inherit similar behaviour traits, and can diseases be eradicated? Look no further, for genetics is the subject for you.

You can aim to become either a genetics engineer or scientist. They study and research into various gene pools and profiles. They draw their sources from different life forms like plants, animals, and humans. Genetic scientists study how traits and characteristics are transmitted through the generations, and how genetic disorders are caused. Their research is not just limited to researching the causes, but in discovering potential cures as well. Genetic cloning is the newest experiment that has unfolded a whole new area of research.

Qualifications

The grind begins at high school or the intermediate level. An option in sciences at this level is necessary to take up a course in genetics or biotechnology at the graduate level. Further specialisation like a postgraduate or doctoral degree in the subject will definitely offer better prospects. There are various options open for specialists in genetics in research and development, academia, marketing and production.

The beneficiaries of the researches and products developed by geneticists are the pharmaceutical companies, pharmacies and drug stores, doctors, hospitals and clinics.

To be a Gregor Mendel or a Rosalind Franklin, you need to have an inclination towards biological, biochemical or related sciences to pursue a career in research. Keen intellect, inquisitiveness, interest in the sciences, creativity and innovativeness, coupled with a bit of lateral thinking, numerical reasoning and analytical skills can prepare one for a career in genetics.

The importance of teamwork cannot be stressed enough, especially in research. Scientist often work in coordination and co- operation with other scientists and laboratories. Perseverance and mental agility therefore are the hallmarks of a good scientist.

Fact file

Duties and responsibilities

The life of genetic scientists depends on unswerving devotion and dedication to their profession. Their work centres on research on genetic material and gene structure, and deciphering genetic codes to find answers to genetic abnormalities and diseases. They work with laboratory equipment, collect and preserve organisms for research, keep track of the latest developments and publish research papers. They are involved in drafting reports, in raising funds for research, attending seminars and conferences.

Specialisations

Medical genetics, genetics, human anatomy, human genetics, genetics and plant breeding are some of the specialisations offered at the master's level.

Institutes

In the U.S.:

*John Hopkins University

*New York State University

*Cornell University

*Einstein College of Medicine

*Stanford University

Graduation in India:

*Osmania University

*Gurunanak Dev University

*Kakatiya University

Post graduation:

The following universities offer a postgraduate (M.Sc.) course in genetics:

*Punjab Agricultural University

*Barkatullah Vishwavidyalaya

*University of Delhi, and

*Osmania University

Human genetics and physical anthropology:

*Andhra University

*Guru Nanak Dev University and

*University of Kerala

Medical genetics:

*University of Pune

Remuneration

A genetic engineer or scientist with a Ph.D. can start with approximately Rs. 10,000/- at the entry level, while those with graduate and postgraduate degrees begin at Rs. 6,000- 8,000-.

Employers

Abbott Laboratories, Bayer, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Ariad, Pfizer and Glaxo Wellcome are some of the global players in genetic research. While the Institute of Microbial Technology (IMT), and Indian Institute of Science, Biochemical Engineering Research and Process Development Centre (IMTECH) are the government agencies.

SAMYUKTA KODA

For more information, visit www.careermosaicindia.com

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