There's no doubt that biotechnology can offer someone a diverse career.
In fact, even people without science degrees can find it a very rewarding
life.
"As someone who promotes careers in biotechnology, I find it rewarding
because we promote careers, training, and skills development to those who
are going to discover the cure for cancer or a new alternative energy source,"
says Siobhan Williams. She works in marketing and communications for a biotechnology
company. "I am not a scientist but I can help those who are or want to be."
For those actively employed as scientists in the field, like Catherine
Rodriguez and Beth Biederman, the work itself has even more meaning. And what
they do can contribute to making a great impact on our world.
Rodriguez is a microbiologist with the U.S. Army. Taking on that role has
made a big difference in her life.
"Being a microbiologist has changed my life drastically," she says. "I
decided that I wanted to further my career in this field so I enrolled in
a master's program at Johns Hopkins University. I am willing to put all other
personal aspirations on hold until I complete the program."
Clearly, the work she does matters. And it matters not only to her, but
also to people who don't even know her. The implications of much of what she
does may not be felt for years.
"Social importance plays a significant role in what I do. My work is changing
the world in that what I do in the lab will someday be transitioned to another
laboratory," she explains. "The protocols I am writing and developing will
set a standardized and quality-assured program that will aid other government
agencies and private industries."
Biederman, meanwhile, works in microbiology research and development. She
also has the opportunity to change the world, although on a level more important
to individuals.
"I work on a sexually transmitted disease diagnostic project, which does
have social impacts," she says. "People who are infected with STDs need to
know as soon as possible in order to get properly treated so they don't pass
it on to other people. I wouldn't say my work could change the world, but
it certainly changes individual lives dramatically."
Whether helping potential scientists reach their goals or working to come
up with solutions to make all of our lives better, those in biotechnology
find their careers fulfilling despite the challenges they may face.
"The hardest and most frustrating part of my job is being involved in
an integral project," says Biederman. "As a microbiologist, I provide organisms
for a variety of projects, but I am on the periphery of the project. So when/if
the project is recognized for accomplishments, I typically am not included
since I am not a main part of the team.
"The most satisfying part is being involved with many teams
and interacting with a great variety of people."
For Rodriguez, the hardest part of her job is the need to bring in new
business and write proposals for additional funding opportunities.
"Now that I have decided to pursue a master's degree in biotechnology,
I am hoping that the knowledge I obtain will serve as a stepping stone in
broadening my biology horizons," she says.