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Genomic Scientist |
Career OverviewA genomic scientist works with microscopic genetic material to determine the action and reaction of various medicines, treatments and drugs on the genetic make-up of a cell. The genomic scientist usually heads the research team in designing, implementing, managing and overseeing all research based projects within the laboratory or research facility.
A genomic scientist must have an ability to work with staff and team members from many different disciplines and backgrounds. They need to act as the liaison between stakeholders, upper management and production individuals and the research team.
The genomic scientist is often responsible for preparing and presenting updates, reports and answering questions on the research progress and difficulties. The genomic scientist must have a good understanding of the hands-on and theoretical aspects of the research and should be an excellent communicator both in written and oral form.
The genomic scientist is responsible for assigning roles and responsibilities to team members, assembling research teams, as well as keeping the teams both on time and following industry guidelines and regulations for research. The genomic scientist will be involved in developing new protocols and procedures in genetic research as well as validating results and troubleshooting any challenges to the project.
The genomic scientist will also present, publish and head the information teams in disseminating the research information. They may also be required to develop patents and write grant proposals in conjunction with others.
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Career RequirementsA genomic scientist position requires a PhD in genetics or a related field. This may include microbiology, biostatics or other program. The genomic scientist must also have a strong statistical background and usually two years laboratory experience. Often this experience is included in the doctoral work through work experience or research for the doctoral program.
The gene analyst should have some experience in publishing research data and should be familiar with the various aspects of genetic research from sample collection through to culturing and collecting and processing data.
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Job OutlookThe job of a genomic scientist is very specialized and requires extensive training and education. The demand for genomic scientists continues to increase as more work is being done on a genetic level in various biotechnology fields as well as medicine and food production.
The number of laboratories and research facilities that use genomic scientists are increasing around the world, with the numbers anticipated to increase at least until the year 2014. Many large pharmaceutical companies are also planning expansions and increases to their research facilities, which will create even greater demand for all areas of biotechnology, including genomic scientists.
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Career TrackA qualified genomic scientist has several opportunities in both management and research. Options to become a consultant, facilities manager or research director or department head in a research facility are always an option.
Universities hire genomic scientists with laboratory and research experience to work as both program directors as well as professors and facilities directors. Genomic scientists with strong computer backgrounds may move into computer programming and software development or may even branch out into their own marketing companies for data programs or clinical processes that they have developed.
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CompensationAn entry level PhD genomic scientist can expect to earn between $75,000 and $88,000 depending on area of specialization and location. A genomic scientist with more than three years of experience working in a research facility can earn in excess of $120,000 per year.
Private sector industry and pharmaceutical companies pay higher salaries than government sector employement opportunities and also may offer bonuses of up to ten percent of the yearly income.
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