Help confirm water contamination by investigating the quantity and types of bacteria in each sample.
Grow a plant that expresses green fluorescent protein under stress to see how quickly drought affects crops.
Administer doses of a new tumor-suppressing drug to mice in a pharmaceutical study.
Run protein gels from samples of genetically modified foods to see how the modifications affect certain proteins.
Overview
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What do the sequencing of the human genome, the annual production of millions of units of life-saving vaccines, and the creation of new drought-tolerant rice varieties have in common? They were all accomplished through the hard work of biological technicians. Scientists may come up with the overarching plans, but the day-to-day labor behind biotechnology advances is often the work of skilled biological technicians.
Biological Technician
Watch this video of a biological technician's typical work day. Keisha Hines-Harris was one of the biological technicians who helped sequence the human genome.
Do You Have the Skills and Characteristics of a Biological Technician?
Reading Comprehension:?Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Critical Thinking:?Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Active Listening:?Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Science:?Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Active Learning:?Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Writing:?Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Complex Problem Solving:?Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Monitoring:?Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Speaking:?Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Judgment and Decision Making:?Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Core Tasks
Think about if you'd like the typical tasks a Biological Technician might do:
Conduct research or assist in the conduct of research, including the collection of information and samples, such as blood, water, soil, plants and animals.
Use computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology industrial applications to perform work duties.
Monitor and observe experiments, recording production and test data for evaluation by research personnel.
Analyze experimental data and interpret results to write reports and summaries of findings.
Provide technical support and services for scientists and engineers working in fields such as agriculture, environmental science, resource management, biology, and health sciences.
Keep detailed logs of all work-related activities.
Input data into databases.
Isolate, identify and prepare specimens for examination.
Set up, adjust, calibrate, clean, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory and field equipment.
Clean, maintain and prepare supplies and work areas.
Monitor laboratory work to ensure compliance with set standards.
Place orders for laboratory equipment and supplies.
Tasks 1/3
Salary & Job Openings
Steps to Get There: Becoming a Biological Technician
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On the Job
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