Careers in Genetic Engineering

Genetic engineering, is a laboratory technique used by scientists to change the DNA (Deoxy ribo Nucleic Acid) of living organisms. This wonderful branch of engineering enables the human minds to interfere in and modify the processes of life, birth death and even offers escape from certain congenital diseases. There is great opportunities in this area as the demand for genetic engineers is growing both in India and abroad.

Genetic engineers re-arrange the sequence of DNA in gene using artificial methods. The work of a genetic engineer involves extracting the DNA out of one organism, changing it using chemicals or radiation and subsequently putting it back into the same or a different organism. For e.g.: genes and segments of DNA from one species is taken and put into another species. They also study how traits and characteristics are transmitted through the generations, and how genetic disorders are caused. Their research involves researching the causes and discovering potential cures if any.

The specializations in genetic engineering are related to plants, animals and human beings. The plant genetic engineering involves improving certain natural characteristics of value, viz. increase resistance to disease or damage and to develop new characteristics etc. It is used to change the colour, size, texture etc of plants otherwise known as GM (Genetically Modified) foods. GE in humans can be to correct severe hereditary defects by introducing normal genes into cells in place of missing or defective ones.

Courses & Eligibility

An individual who wants to make a career in genetic engineering can start the BTech course after his/her Plus Two Science with Physics, Chemistry, Maths and Biology. Admission to B.Tech in Genetic Engineering/Biotechnology/ Biochemical Engineering is made generally through entrance tests.

There is another option of pursuing a three-year B.Sc degree course in Genetics / Biological Science / Life Science / Biotechnology subjects and then go for post-graduation (MSc) in genetics. Most of the India universities offer this degree course.

One who aspires for further study and research can pursue M.Tech and PhD in genetic engineering offered by few institutes in India including the IITs.

Career Prospects

Genetic engineers be absorbed in medical and pharmaceutical industries, agricultural sectors and the research and development departments of government, semi-government and private sectors. The pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies offer the best opportunities to genetic engineers and professionals with handsome salaries apart from other perks and benefits.

Institutes/Universities

   1.       SRM University

    SRM Nagar, Kattankulatthur - 603 203

    Kancheepuram Dt, Tamil Nadu, India

    Phone : +91 - 44 - 2745 5715 / 2745 3433

    Fax : + 91 - 44 - 2745 3622

    E-mail : dean@admissions.srmuniv.ac.in

   Website : http://www.srmuniv.ac.in

   Course (s) offered : B.Tech - (Genetic Engineering), Ph.D.

   2.       Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai

Course (s) offered : Post M.Sc. Certificate course in Plant Genetic Engineering

   3.       Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras

Course (s) Offered : four-year B.Tech. Biotechnology, M.Tech. five-year dual degree in biotechnology.

   4.       IIT, Kharagpur

   Course (s) Offered : four-year B.Tech. and five-year M.Tech. courses in Biotechnology and            

   Biochemical      Engineering.

   5.       IIT, Guwahati

Course (s) Offered : B.Tech Biotechnology.

   6.       IIT, Delhi

Course (s) Offered : M.Tech five-year dual degree in Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology

   7.       Other than this many state level universities and private institutions offer this course.