Overview of Careers in Genetics
All living organisms have a genetic code. This can be identified through DNA testing. Dog owners can submit a sample of their dog's saliva to discover their dog's breed. People can send their DNA sample to labs that will use it to determine where their ancestors came from. More commonly, we associate DNA testing with a process completed as part of criminal investigations to identify suspects, or medical tests to identify genetic disorders.
| Job Title | Median Salary* (2020) | Job Growth* (2019-2029) |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural and Food Scientists | $68,830 | 6% |
| Biomedical Engineers | $92,620 | 5% |
| Forensic Science Technicians | $60,590 | 14% |
| Biochemists and Biophysicists | $94,270 | 4% |
| Genetic Counselors | $85,700 | 21% |
| Medical Scientists | $91,510 | 6% |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Careers in Genetics Requiring Undergraduate Degree
There are some genetics jobs that can be obtained with a bachelor's degree in the appropriate field. Identifying bachelor of genetics jobs really means considering degree programs related to genetics, as there is seldom an actual major in genetics at the undergraduate level. A major in Microbiology involves the study of genetics. Following are three examples of jobs working with genetics for which an undergraduate degree is sufficient preparation.
- Agricultural and Food Scientists
- Biomedical Engineers
- Forensic Science Technicians
Agricultural and Food Scientists
A Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) is a component of plant or animal life that has been changed through genetic engineering. Students of agriculture and nutrition in college may prepare to become agricultural and food scientists, involved in determining how to improve food production. Animal scientists may determine genetic factors affecting livestock, while food scientists and technologists apply genetic research to plants. A bachelor's degree may be sufficient for some positions in this field, although it's common for animal scientists to earn a doctoral degree in veterinary medicine.
Biomedical Engineers
Biomedical engineers are responsible for the medical equipment healthcare professionals use. They must have a bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering or a comparable discipline. Their work involves designing medical equipment and repairing existing equipment. Those who are working on equipment that's used for genetic testing may also consult with medical scientists to ensure that the equipment is designed as effectively as possible and performs as intended.
Forensic Science Technicians
Forensics is the use of scientific processes used in criminology and law enforcement. Forensic science technicians apply their skills in the field of law enforcement. They need a bachelor's degree and they use their knowledge of forensic science to identify and analyze potential evidence from a crime scene. They may use specialized equipment to identify DNA from crime scenes. Through processing relevant genetic data, forensic science technicians help identify suspects.
Jobs for Genetics Majors Requiring a Graduate Degree
There are some careers in genetics that can be obtained only after earning an advanced degree. Following are three examples of genetics career paths for which a master's or doctoral degree is needed.
- Biochemists and Biophysicists
- Genetic Counselors
- Medical Scientists
Biochemists and Biophysicists
Biochemists and biophysicists are highly trained professionals with a doctoral degree in their field. There are several doctoral degree programs that provide the knowledge to conduct research, sometimes involving hereditary conditions and other areas of genetics. Hereditary illnesses are genetic, and many careers in biochemistry and genetics include studying how DNA determines genetic disorders.
Genetic Counselors
Careers in DNA and genetics include genetic counselors, who must have a master's degree and certification to work in their field. They are healthcare professionals who focus on genetics; their work involves determining if a patient or family is at risk of having or passing on a genetic condition. They evaluate the patient's DNA and family history to identify genetic risk factors and produce reports for other medical professionals. They also provide information to the patient about any genetic health risks identified.
Medical Scientists
Medical scientists are required to have a doctoral or medical degree. Their focus is on scientific research related to medical issues. They perform studies to learn more about diseases, and those that focus on hereditary conditions would be involved in studying genetics to determine how genetic disorders can be passed on and may try to identify how to treat genetic conditions.
