Biology

1. Key Field: Biology

Biology is a vast and interdisciplinary field that encompasses the study of life and living organisms, focusing on their structure, function, growth, evolution, distribution, and taxonomy. Various subfields of biology provide a deep understanding of life processes at the molecular, cellular, organismal, and ecological levels.

2. Subfields of Biology
Biotechnology: The application of biological systems and organisms to develop products and technologies for human benefit. It includes areas such as Medical Biotechnology and Industrial Biotechnology.

Microbiology: The study of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It includes Clinical Microbiology and Environmental Microbiology.

Genetics: The branch of biology concerned with genes, heredity, and genetic variation. Subfields include Genomics and Epigenetics.

3. Bifurcation of Subfields
Biotechnology:
Medical Biotechnology: Focuses on developing technologies and products for medical use, such as vaccines, diagnostics, and therapies.

Industrial Biotechnology: Involves the use of biological resources to produce goods such as biofuels, bioplastics, and enzymes for industrial processes.

Microbiology:
Clinical Microbiology: Deals with the study of microorganisms that cause human diseases and focuses on diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Environmental Microbiology: Explores the role of microorganisms in environmental processes like nutrient cycling, pollution control, and bio-remediation.

Genetics:
Genomics: The study of the entire genome of organisms, including gene mapping, sequencing, and analysis.

Epigenetics: Focuses on changes in gene expression that occur without altering the DNA sequence, influenced by environmental factors and behaviors.

4. Career Options

Medical Biotechnology:
Biomedical Engineer: Engages in designing and developing medical devices, implants, and diagnostic tools using biological principles.

Research Scientist: Conducts experimental research to develop new medical technologies, drugs, and treatments.

Further Reading:
Career Development in Bioengineering Biomedical Engineering A Student's Roadmap ( Link-https://www.researchgate.net/publication/23932140_Career_Development_in_BioengineeringBiomedical_Engineering_

From goal to outcome: Analyzing the progression of biomedical sciences PhD careers in a longitudinal study using an expanded taxonomy

Career Development in Bioengineering Biomedical Engineering A Student's Roadmap ( Link-https://www.researchgate.net/publication/23932140_Career_Development_in_BioengineeringBiomedical_Engineering_A_Student's_Roadmap
From goal to outcome: Analyzing the progression of biomedical sciences PhD careers in a longitudinal study using an expanded taxonomy
Link - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10626162/
Exploring Biomedical Engineering Careers: From Research to Medical Devices
Link - https://online-engineering.case.edu/blog/exploring-biomedical-engineering-careers
Career Paths of Doctoral Recipients in Engineering and Computer Science: Trends by Sex, Race, Citizenship, and Discipline with an Emphasis on Biomedical Engineering
Link - https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s43683-024-00140-y

Youtube Link:
1) https://youtu.be/8M2s8CYY108?si=gedmnewS6jOMyrPh

2) https://youtu.be/sBvHrsogVUk?si=oXmHi7hq6ChB8xJf

3) https://youtu.be/LhU9PduyZAU?si=9dQq5-rxUMmn7ABp

4) https://youtu.be/uRreC41dGz4?si=uCyzR-7Q822_ARti

Clinical Microbiology:
Clinical Microbiologist: Specializes in diagnosing and researching microorganiRole of Clinical Microbiology Laboratories in the Management and Control of Infectious Diseases and the Delivery of Health Caresms that caus k e diseases in humans.

Lab Technician: Works in laboratories to perform routine tests and experiments to analyze biological samples for medical diagnostics.

Further Reading:
Careers in Clinical & Public Health Microbiology by American Society for Microbology
Link - https://asm.org/careers-in-clinical-public-health-microbiology

Career Pathways for the Medical Laboratory Scientist in Clinical Microbiology: Jack of All Trades by Science Direct
Link - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S019643992300020X

What Will the Role of the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory Director Be in 2015? By National Library of Medicine
Link - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3185860/

Role of Clinical Microbiology Laboratories in the Management and Control of Infectious Diseases and the Delivery of Health Care by Oxford Academic
Link - https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/32/4/605/465108

Youtube Links :
Clinical microbiologist
1) https://youtu.be/VRdMmK8YRoM?si=wKWRikkJ3VncsTH0
2) https://youtu.be/dLDv0iI-bM4?si=OGmbychZy7qYpspm
3) https://youtu.be/hLTEZ903Ehk?si=Q6jexrLeMzUEzXJs
4) https://youtu.be/ysKz1VEZe8o?si=qJ8E82_FgPt2sU6F

Genomics:
Genetic Counselor: Provides information and advice about genetic conditions and hereditary diseases to patients and families.

Genomic Scientist: Engages in the study of an organism's complete set of DNA, identifying genes and mutations linked to diseases.

Further Reading:
The genomics workforce must become more diverse: a strategic imperative by the National Library of Medicine
Link - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7820786/

Career in Genomics by ICS Career GPS
Link - https://www.icscareergps.com/blog/latest-education-and-career-buzz/careers-in-genomics

Career in Genomics Article by The Hindu
Link - https://www.thehindu.com/education/careers-in-genomics/article65680303.ece

My career in genomics: Career profiles by your Genome
https://www.yourgenome.org/theme/my-career-in-genomics-career-profiles/

Youtube Links :
1) https://youtu.be/W5LhKMRw77Q?si=OPAzmVuf6KVUpgnq
2) https://youtu.be/hH7pHJVMHeA?si=SaF8ZCp77WwZA_d_
3) https://youtu.be/2a6kMNglllU?si=G9gib3APhJFRA9ke
4) https://youtu.be/Dy9fClVEgC8?si=yAgI8aK02esqVLaf

5. Required Qualifications
Biomedical Engineer:
A B.Tech in Bioengineering or Biotechnology is typically required. Advanced degrees such as M.Tech or specialization in medical devices can enhance career prospects.

Clinical Microbiologist:
Requires an MSc in Microbiology, followed by a PhD for research-focused roles. Clinical roles may require certification or additional training in laboratory medicine.

Genetic Counselor:
Requires an MSc in Genetics along with a diploma or certification in Genetic Counseling to advise patients on genetic conditions and testing.

6. Expected Salaries
Biomedical Engineer:
Expected salary ranges from ₹6-12 LPA depending on experience and expertise in developing medical technologies.

Clinical Microbiologist:
Salaries typically range from ₹4-8 LPA. Senior roles or those with research experience can earn higher.

Genetic Counselor:
Expected salary is in the range of ₹5-10 LPA, depending on the level of experience, counseling skills, and the institution.

7. Companies in the Field

Biocon: A leading global biopharmaceutical company based in India, engaged in developing affordable biosimilars, generic biologics, and novel therapies.
Novozymes: Specializes in enzyme production, particularly for industrial applications, including biotechnology-based solutions for healthcare.
Bharat Biotech: A pioneer in developing vaccines, including the production of the Covaxin vaccine for COVID-19, with a focus on biopharmaceutical innovations.
Tata Medical: Part of the Tata Group, involved in medical devices and healthcare solutions, focusing on innovation and affordability