Geneticists
Geneticists research and study the inheritance of traits at the molecular, organism or population level. They also evaluate or treat patients with genetic disorders.
What is a geneticist's job? They study chromosomes and the science of heredity (inherited attributes passed down through generations). They examine living organisms- from human beings and animals to crops and bacteria. A major part of a geneticist’s job is research. For this, they conduct experiments to determine origins and medical conditions and seek out determinants responsible for these traits.
How to become a geneticist? To pursue a career as a geneticist, you should have a life science degree including biomedical science, biology, microbiology, genetics and biochemistry followed by a master's degree. A PhD can be worthwhile and may even be necessary, especially if you want to become a university lecturer or lead your own research projects.
Geneticists mostly get employed at pharmaceutical, agricultural, horticultural, biotechnology and genetic engineering companies as well as hospitals, research institutions and universities. Post-pandemic, a geneticist’s salary and demand has increased considerably.
For a successful career as a geneticist, you should have analytical, IT, problem-solving and critical thinking skills and be detail-oriented. You should be able to understand complex concepts and be driven, innovative, and emerging as a team player.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- M.Sc. Genetics
- D.M. Medical Genetics
- B.Sc. Life Sciences
- MBBS Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
- Certificate Clinical Geneticist
Tasks
- Write grants and papers or attend fundraising events to seek research funds.
- Verify that cytogenetic, molecular genetic, and related equipment and instrumentation is maintained in working condition to ensure accuracy and quality of experimental results.
- Plan curatorial programs for species collections that include acquisition, distribution, maintenance, or regeneration.
- Participate in the development of endangered species breeding programs or species survival plans.
- Maintain laboratory safety programs and train personnel in laboratory safety techniques.
- Instruct medical students, graduate students, or others in methods or procedures for diagnosis and management of genetic disorders.
- Evaluate, diagnose, or treat genetic diseases.
- Design and maintain genetics computer databases.
- Confer with information technology specialists to develop computer applications for genetic data analysis.
- Collaborate with biologists and other professionals to conduct appropriate genetic and biochemical analyses.
Progression Routes
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