Careers in Genetics
	By Idan Ivri Why do people study genetics? What specific careers are available in the field of genetics? What college majors might attract people interested in genetics? What degrees are available for those studying genetics? Other than genetic research or medicine, what career opportunities exist for people with genetics degrees? What are some organizations with more information? Why do people study genetics? Each organism on earth can trace its genetic code back to the first living organisms that occurred on earth billions of years ago. This DNA code has evolved and mutated over millions of years in innumerable directions. Geneticists study this code, its mutations, its transferral, its complicated link to anatomy, and its applied biotechnological uses in the agricultural, medical, and commercial fields. Geneticists study the most fundamental building blocks of life. Currently, the US is the world's leader in biotechnology. There are thousands of biotech companies working and competing for talented employees and new discoveries. What specific careers are available in the field of genetics? There are various types of careers in the field of genetics. ���� Geneticists in basic research usually remain in academia. After obtaining their doctorate in the field, these geneticists attempt to find fellowships and research grants through universities. After a number of years, these scientists may begin working as faculty at colleges and universities around the country. ���� Laboratory geneticists apply the science in a more tangible way than those in basic research. Police departments, agriculture companies, and pharmaceutical companies all require the expertise of trained geneticists. Often, these scientists will have 4-6 years of university education followed by a special certification in their particular applied field of knowledge. For example, specializations in immunology, biochemical genetics, and molecular biology are often required of laboratory geneticists. ���� Genetic counselors have a Masters in Science, and must combine a mastery of biology and genetics with expertise in psychology, social work, and public health. These professionals identify and counsel families that are at risk for various genetic diseases. They can refer an at-risk family to the appropriate doctor or agency and find aid programs for their particular problem. They also serve as educators and links to the rest of the public. ���� Clinical geneticists have an M.D. degree to practice medicine. These individuals have usually finished residencies in other medical fields and have a wide range of experience. Clinical genetics has a large experimental component. While ripe with potential, many treatments based on gene therapy are still unproven. ���� Entry-level work is also available in the field of genetics. Glass washers, animal handlers, plant breeders, lab assistants, and many other positions all must be filled in each lab. Even those with no access to 4-year universities can work to gain experience in these jobs. Usually, a high school diploma or an associate's degree is sufficient education for these positions. What college majors might attract people interested in genetics? Obviously biology and (if available) genetics majors would be best suited for those who are interested in careers along those lines. However, any physical science concentration such as mathematics, chemistry, or physics, if accompanied by a biology minor, would also be excellent preparation for later study in genetics. Many colleges now offer various interdepartmental programs that could be integrated into a genetics-centered education. For example, biostatistics, bioengineering, or biomathematics could all be excellent undergraduate beginnings for a career in genetics. What degrees are available for those studying genetics? Each type of genetics occupation requires a different level of education. With a Bachelor of Science degree in any of the above-mentioned fields, one would be qualified to apply for a laboratory technician position. These positions usually require a basic understanding of genetics concepts, a university education, and a general aptitude for the topic. With a Master of Science degree in a genetics-related field, positions such as laboratory research assistant become available. Often many public agencies or private companies operate labs led by such researchers. These labs often have a specific purpose to which they apply their knowledge of genetics. For a career in genetic counseling one must earn a Master of Science degree in a genetics-related field and pass the ABGC (American Board of Genetics Counselors) accredited program in human genetics / genetic counseling. This accreditation program ensures that students receive the high amount of training necessary to become counselors to at-risk families. Ph.D. programs in genetics are also available. Individuals with a doctorate in the field often look for fellowships, research grants, and faculty positions among the hundreds of colleges and universities that offer genetics programs. These scientists are also accredited with the ABMG (American Board of Medical Geneticists). Finally, students who pursue the M.D. degree can also specialize in genetics. After the medical school years and a residency in most any branch of medicine, doctors can apply for a genetics fellowship in an ABMG accredited program. Other than genetic research or medicine, what career opportunities exist for people with genetics degrees? Today's genetic research will impact dozens of fields in the future. Students with inter-disciplinary backgrounds will be in high demand as the applications for genetic technology become more complicated. Students with a genetics background in addition to experience in journalism, law, politics, or computer science will fare well in the career marketplace. Every year, the number of biotech companies in the US rises. These new biotechnology companies and publications will need publicists, bioethicists, and consumer advocates. Journalists who understand the fundamentals of genetics will have to inform the public on the activities of these new companies. The government will also require leaders with genetics knowledge to reinvent longstanding public health programs. The nation's major universities also recruit professors who have opportunities to write books and head non-governmental organizations in the field. What are some organizations with more information? American Board of Medical Genetics http://www.kumc.edu/gec/prof/abmg.html American Board of Genetic Counselors http://www.kumc.edu/gec/prof/abgc.html American Society of Human Genetics http://www.kumc.edu/gec/prof/ashg.html National Society of Genetic Counselors http://www.kumc.edu/gec/prof/nsgc.html Association of Genetic Technologists http://www.kumc.edu/gec/prof/agt.html The Massachusetts Corporation for Educational Telecommunications http://www.mcet.edu