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Gene Analyst |
Career OverviewThe job of a gene analyst involves the identification, classification and processing of genetic data obtained from various forms of research and data collection. This data can be obtained from mass spectrometry or microarry hybridization process within a research lab or facility.
The gene analyst is responsible for converting the raw data into usable information for the research teams to help with validation, process development and research structure and modifications.
The gene analyst often works in laboratories and is actively involved in both the computer aspects of the work as well as assisting and assessing current data collection methods. The gene analyst works closely with the research team and needs to have excellent interpersonal and communication skills. In addition a science background and experience with various genetic programs and software programs are critical to the job.
The gene analyst works closely with medical staff as well, especially if the research is in human disease or treatment of genetic conditions. The gene analyst is the liaison between the data processing and the actual experiment or research project.
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Career RequirementsThe minimum requirement for a gene analyst is a Bachelors degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, bioinformatics, engineering or other related field. Most research facilities require a Masters or even PhD education and at least two years of laboratory experience or experience in bioinformatics.
Many of the universities and research facilities offer work experience or practicum opportunities so that students can get real world experience working in the laboratories and research facilities while they are completing their degrees.
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Job OutlookWith increasing emphasis on genetic research for disease prevention and control there is a marked increase in the number of analysis type positions within the biotechnology field.
Qualified gene analysts are in steady demand both in private sector labs and production facilities as well as in government laboratories. Universities with research labs and facilities often hire gene analysts that eventually may become professors or instructors within the facility.
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Career TrackSupervisory and management roles are always available in most employement sectors for gene analysts with Masters and PhD level training and education.
There is always a strong emphasis on actual work experience so those individual gene analyst that specialize in one field of study may have more options for advancement within their area of expertise than those gene analyst with a more general background.
Opportunities for teaching, consulting and development of software and computer programs also exist with in the field of gene analysis.
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CompensationA Bachelor level gene analyst with less than five years of experience earns, on average, $55,000 per year. Those gene analysts with Masters or PhD level training earn between $60,000 and $72,000, even in entry level positions. PhD level gene analyst with some management or supervisory responsibilities can earn over $88,000 per year. It is possible to earn more per year in industry facilities over government labs and research departments.
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