How to become A Molecular Biologist

We all know that the human body is programmed to perform essential functions to survive. Yet, we may not often marvel at how much more complex than that it is. It is composed of a trillion building blocks which wait to be solved like a puzzle. Molecular Biologists are the explorers of these lightbulbs that power up the human body. These experts are in charge of developing innovative products to improve our quality of life.

• Biotechnologist
• Cell Biologist
• Biological Engineer
• Biological Technician
• Developmental Biologist
• Immunologist
• Neurobiologist

What do Molecular Biologists do?

A Molecular Biologist would typically need to:

• Use molecular biological techniques and different methodologies to achieve holistic results
• Set up the laboratory equipment to conduct experiments; synthesise chemicals; design and analyse DNA constructs; prepare culture media, reagents, solutions, and stains; use standard cloning techniques
• Collect and test samples from cells, tissues, blood, bacteria; record and study findings; analyse the results; identify how the results can be used to improve life
• Record data; perform data analysis on experiments; interpret findings to support investigations; write and prepare reports for external and internal use
• Maintain a safe and clean lab environment; oversee equipment and instruments; meet quality standards and confidentiality; ensure quality control of lab procedures; navigate ethical protocols and best practices
• Use appropriate software tools for molecular modelling and design; ensure the commercial awareness of new software models, techniques, and procedures; review scientific literature and journals
• Present data in scientific meetings; organise projects; oversee and assist team members; establish efficient workgroup protocols
• Consult with governmental agencies and stakeholders to keep up to date with advancements in biotechnology; consult with policy-makers to interpret data; advise and share information with other researchers; participate in outreach programmes

Molecular Biologists usually work in laboratory settings and office environments. They test samples and perform experiments in the laboratories. In the office, they examine their results using different data analysis programs.

Molecular Biologists work eight to nine hours a day on average from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., chalking up 35 to 40 hours per week. Overtime work is not typical for Molecular Biologists. However, on occasion, they may need to work long hours under stressful circumstances due to project deadlines or when conducting experiments that require constant monitoring.

Private companies may hire Molecular Biologists to conduct project-based work. They are also employed by governmental agencies that elaborate strategies and regulations involving biological processes. Large private biotech companies typically publish job vacancies with an emphasis on medical, pharmaceutical, and biochemical sciences. At the same time, small and medium-sized businesses often post job openings with different job titles.

Molecular Biologists are generally employed by:

• Agricultural Organisations
• Biotechnology Firms
• Clinical Research Companies
• Conservation Companies
• Environmental Companies
• Food & Drink Manufacturers
• Genetic Engineering Firms
• Governmental Institutes
• Hospitals
• Pharmaceutical Companies
• Research Institutes
• Universities

Professional associations have resources for networking and mentoring, and career boards available exclusively for members. The International Organisation for Biotechnology and Bioengineering (IBBO) is such an organisation. It aims to enhance interaction between laboratories, institutes, commercial enterprises, and individuals working in the fields of plant, mammalian, and microbial cell cultivation and processing around the world, especially in developing countries. The IBBO fosters development in the use of biological materials for industrial purposes and environmental preservation.

• Working with toxic chemicals that may be life-threatening
• The need to adhere to strict safety precautions when dealing with dangerous substances and with an increased likelihood of contamination

Although traditional internships in molecular biology may not be common, research experience is extremely valuable and serves a similar purpose. Volunteering in a lab or asking professors at your university if you can assist in their studies can help you gain more research experience. In certain specialised programs, undergraduates will have the opportunity to conduct research studies.

Internships are useful to put the skills you have learned during your studies to the test in a real-world setting. By working as an intern, you explore job opportunities and gain insight into working in a specific position or business. Internships also help you show prospective employers that you have initiative, enthusiasm, and a strong work ethic.

Obtaining work experience in a laboratory environment would significantly increase the chances of landing a full-time position. To learn about opportunities, you will need to make targeted speculative applications to small and medium-sized businesses or research units. Job shadowing is another way to gain experience.

Employers may expect you to have some background knowledge in the biotechnology field you want to work in, such as the food and beverage industry. You will normally get specific training on the job, but you will need to have laboratory skills and some lab experience.

Although any lab experience will help you advance in your career, aim to gain experience in your field of interest to strengthen your application. Experience that improves your commercial knowledge is also a plus, as many employers choose to hire Molecular Biologists with an understanding of the business sector.

There are no shortcuts to becoming a Molecular Biologist. A bachelor’s degree is necessary, and you may choose to major in any science subject such as biology, biochemistry, chemistry, microbiology, and biomedical science. Select a curriculum that includes both classroom instruction and some type of experiential learning. Both types of learning experiences are needed to excel as a Molecular Biologist.

Typically, employers prefer candidates with advanced qualifications. A master's degree in biotechnology allows you to specialise in a subfield such as process sciences, pharmaceutical innovations, or manufacturing & quality control. Popular courses include a study of stem cells, biochemistry, and multiple research labs. Concentration in a specific field of molecular biology will help you apply for jobs in a particular field while not necessarily excluding you from other opportunities.

PhD courses can take up to five years to complete. They include advanced molecular biology research as well as laboratory work. The second half of most of these programs involves full-time research ventures.

Some Molecular Biologists take their careers even further by conducting post-doctoral research, which helps them achieve success and gain recognition from their peers. The learning process is complicated and necessitates a thorough understanding of fundamental principles in physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, and even information technology. However, with enough commitment and encouragement, one can become a molecular biology expert.

Certification in molecular biology, laboratory methodologies, and applied instruction in new, well-equipped biology laboratories is appreciated by employees and increases the likelihood of employment.

Typically, professional bodies grant certification for the pathways of microbiology and molecular biology. You will need to confirm if your qualifications match the criteria to sit for the relevant exams. The requirements include the prescribed degree, any other certifications, and laboratory experience. For example, the test areas may be divided into molecular science, techniques, operations, and applications.

You would also need to maintain and renew your credentials periodically through earning the required credits in areas such as laboratory patient safety, or quality control, lab speciality, management, education, or other laboratory aspects relevant to you.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression. There are several career paths opened to Molecular Biologists.

You may rise to a Deputy Director position, in which case, you will report directly to the Director. Typically, you will be in charge of a research project whose production and implementation are the responsibility of a Deputy Director with a background as a Molecular Biologist. You will assist the Director in developing crucial partnerships with scientific societies, advisory boards, centres of excellence, professional groups, and stakeholders. As a Molecular Biologist, you may also be promoted to the position of Director, in which case, you will be in charge of providing strategic scientific guidance and advice. You will conduct healthcare research and will be responsible for the creation and implementation of science policies. A Director is the highest authority and is responsible for all operations.

Competition is high for Molecular Biologists. Taking additional professional or academic qualifications can increase your career prospects, particularly in academia. If you are following a career in academia, it is essential to get your research published in journals related to your area of expertise. Securing funding for research projects will also help your career prospects.

Many employers provide comprehensive training programs to improve their employees' contribution and development in various fields. Seminars and panels on the biotech sector, teaching, and science outreach, as well as mock interviews and workshops, are only a few of the options provided by employers. Continuing professional development (CPD) courses are also available, covering a wide range of specialised training, formal education, and advanced professional learning opportunities to help Molecular Biologists sustain, enhance, and extend their careers. CPD helps build experience, competence, skills, and expertise in one or more areas.

Picking Your Path

A molecular biology degree can lead to various master’s degrees, doctoral qualifications, and career options. Some fields are pharmaceutical biotechnology (vaccine development, monoclonal antibodies, and cell-based therapies), plant biotechnology (improving crop quality and developing crops that are resistant to abiotic and biotic stresses), cellular biotechnology, food agriculture (technology aimed at improving food production, distribution, packaging, and environmental biology (bioremediation to manage natural resources and climate change), medical biotechnology (developing testing tools, vaccines, biologics, pharmaceuticals, or medical equipment), and bioinformatics (biological data interpretation, analysis, and visualisation).

Entering the Field

In the field of molecular biology, a molecular biology technician is an entry-level role. Technicians must be familiar with molecular biology techniques like DNA or RNA extraction, PCR, alteration, clone selection, transformation, and propagation. You must pay close attention to the smallest of information. For efficient operation in this position, you need excellent communication skills. A research associate is a junior position in the field. In this role, you will conduct experiments and research evolutionary processes, such as plant reproduction, animal reproduction, human reproduction, and the death of all living species. The research of Molecular Biologists is mainly used to discover molecular networks of disease mechanisms. Dear Scientist White coat, yes. Goggles, yes. Rubber gloves, yes. Tissue culture plate, x-ray film, and pipette, check, check, and check. Closed-toe shoes, long pants or skirts that fully cover the thighs, and a lab coat are needed for employees working with hazardous chemicals in laboratories. Before starting work, you must tie back your hair and secure any loose clothing or jewellery. Contact with dangerous materials necessitates the use of protective gloves and eyewear.

Molecular Biologists are the ones that analyse the DNA fingerprinting found in crime scenes.

Equipped with your blend of curiosity and passion as a Molecular Biologist, you will not get bored with what life’s journey has to unfold before you. You are responsible for creating and saving lives, from developing vaccines to the discovery of stem cells. Go ahead, peer into that cell.

Do not be afraid of making mistakes; you always learn from failed experiments. Through continual research, you discover what everybody else has observed, and you think what nobody else has thought. If you have doubts or queries, do not hesitate to ask.