Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos & Interviews
Videos on the Web
- Biotechnologist- from: Youtube Search
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Analysing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
- Thinking Creatively Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
- Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information Estimating sises, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Working Life
Biotechnologists make products with a biological ingredient or action, like vaccines, antibiotics, drugs and hormones.
Biotechnologists use the techniques of molecular biology such as genetic engineering, to change the way an organism grows or behaves. For example, insulin, a chemical normally made in the human body (but lacking in people with diabetes) has been made from genetically engineered bacteria. It encompasses an ever-growing range of laboratory techniques for the attention and manipulation of molecules, genes and cells.
In agriculture, biotechnologists may change genes to increase crop yields, or make crops more resistant to pests and disease. They use micro-organisms, such as bacteria or yeasts to perform specific industrial or manufacturing processes producing certain drugs and hormones and the bioconversion of organic wastes.
In manufacturing, biotechnologists supervise the production plant, and test the product to monitor its safety and quality.
Alternative job titles for this role include: Bioengineer; Molecular biologist; Biophysicist; Biochemist and Microbiologist.
Typical employers include:
- Medical technology companies
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Universities
- Scientific foundations and institutions
- Agriculture and crop production companies
- Industries working in areas such as biodegradable plastics, vegetable oil
- Environments research in companies and institutions such as biofuels
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Conduct research, along with life scientists, chemists, and medical scientists, on the engineering aspects of the biological systems of humans and animals.
- Adapt or design computer hardware or software for medical science uses.
- Evaluate the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of biomedical equipment.
- Develop models or computer simulations of human biobehavioral systems to obtain data for measuring or controlling life processes.
- Research new materials to be used for products, such as implanted artificial organs.
- Write documents describing protocols, policies, standards for use, maintenance, and repair of medical equipment.
- Conduct training or in-services to educate clinicians and other personnel on proper use of equipment.
- Analyse new medical procedures to forecast likely outcomes.
- Advise hospital administrators on the planning, acquisition, and use of medical equipment.
- Advise manufacturing staff regarding problems with fermentation, filtration, or other bioproduction processes.
Further Information
- Biotechnologist- from: N.C.S. [UK]
- Biotechnologist- from: GradIreland
Qualities - Biotechnologist
As a biotechnologist, you must have a thorough and methodical approach to your work. You will need an enquiring mind and enjoy solving problems. You will also need to show initiative with a flexible approach and the ability to communicate your findings, both verbally and in writing, to your colleagues.
Skills
- Complex problem-solving
- Team work and communication skills
- Investigative skills
- Attention to detail
- Innovative thinking
- Observation skills
- Interest in biology and technology
Interests - Biotechnologist
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Naturalist
Not surprisingly, some aspect of the natural sciences will run through the Naturalist's interests - from ecological awareness to nutrition and health. People with an interest in horticulture, land usage and farming (including fish) are Naturalists.
Some Naturalists focus on animals rather than plants, and may enjoy working with, training, caring for, or simply herding them. Other Naturalists will prefer working with the end result of nature's produce - the food produced from plants and animals. Naturalists like solving problems with solutions that show some sensitivity to the environmental impact of what they do. They like to see practical results and prefer action to talking and discussing.
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Entry / Progression - Biotechnologist
Biotechnology normally requires a graduate qualification. You can develop your skills and knowledge in steps across a wide range of training & development.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: laboratory assistant, general management.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: applied science, pharmaceutical manufacturing operations, applied laboratory science, laboratory techniques, biomedical, pharmaceutical science, biotechnology.
Search for PLC Courses
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Lab Technician, Lab Analyst.
Search for Apprenticeships
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: biotechnology, biochemistry, chemistry, microbiology, process engineering, chemical engineering, pharmaceutical, sciences, biology, environmental biology, medicine.
Search for CAO Courses
A bachelor’s degree in biotechnology is the most common entry route into the industry. Students can attain a general science certification or diploma before progressing onto a biotechnology degree.
For further details on eligibility requirements for CAO third level entry following or a QQI-FET PLC qualification, students should visit the CAO course search.
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Example search terms include: science.
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - Biotechnologist
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €35k - €70k
Salaries vary by employer, locations, duties, role, and experience:
Data Source(s):
Brightwater/ Morgan McKinley/ Sigmar / Indeed
Last Updated: July, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Biotechnologist
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Chemical scientists, Biological scientists and biochemists, Physical scientists, Social and humanities scientists, Natural and social science professionals n.e.c., Research and development managers.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2024).
Average annual employment growth over the five-year period was above average for this occupation, although employment levels remained unchanged between 2022 and 2023. At 26%, the share of non-Irish citizens employed in this occupation was above the national average. Despite a fall in the number of online job adverts (Eurostat/CEDEFOP) in 2023, scientists were the fifth most frequently occurring occupation across all online job adverts.
Employment permits issued were across various roles in industry and health including bio-process associates, QC chemists, and medical scientists. The Recruitment Agency Survey highlighted issues with recruiting process/analytical scientists and microbiologists, while Skills for Growth data identified the need for skills in good manufacturing practices (GMP), quality and validation. The number of biochemistry and chemistry awards made at third level has been growing annually for several years and reached nearly 900 and 1,000 awards respectively in 2022 (up from 580 and 800 in 2018). Similarly, the number of awards made in medical or pharma/bio-pharma fields grew to 1,400 (up from 1,300 in 2018).
A high level of demand for these occupations remains evident, with shortages expected to persist, particularly in the life sciences sector, for those with experience and/or in niche areas.
Useful Contacts - Biotechnologist
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Clinical Research Development Ireland
- Clinical Research Development Ireland, 28 Upper Mount Street, Dublin 2
- (01) 658 2120
- [email protected]
- Click Here
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Biotechnology Ireland
- Enterprise Ireland, Lifescience & Food Commercialisation Group (EI Bio), East Point Business Park, Dublin 3
- (01) 727 2000
- Click Here
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Life Science Recruitment
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Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland
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Irish Medical Devices Association
