Biotechnology
Biotechnology students develop a broad understanding of the application of science and technology to living organisms.
Biotechnology students use their scientific knowledge to investigate the use of biological processes for industrial, medical, or environmental purposes. They have particular skills in research, analysis, communication and data presentation.
Roles and career pathways
Graduates may work in a lab, in a hospital or clinical setting, in roles such as a lab technician or assistant and progressing to scientist or manager roles.
To move into research specific roles a postgraduate qualification, such as Master’s or PhD is required.
Graduates also work in non-clinical roles for example as an administrator, coordinator, analyst or adviser in Government departments, or consultancies with a scientific focus. They may work on projects or policy specific to health, technology or scientific innovation, or in other areas where their mix of skills is relevant.
Adding another major or degree such as Marketing, International Business, Law or Communication can help you specialise your studies and also broaden your employment options by improving your commercial awareness.
Where Biotechnology graduates work
Biotechnology graduates work across the private and public sectors. They offer specialised scientific and technical skills combined with a commercial understanding. They may work for government departments, research institutes, biotechnology companies, patent firms, pharmaceutical companies, scientific equipment distributors or in roles that involve science communication. Some large business consultancies hire graduates who have a science qualification as they value their analytical ways of thinking that are useful for consultancy projects. Those with postgraduate qualifications may work in research positions such as immunology and environmental health.They may also work in secondary or tertiary education with further training.
Recent Biotechnology graduates have worked in organisations such as:
- AsureQuality
- Ministry for Primary Industries
- Plant & Food Research
- Victoria University of WellingtonAsureQuality
- Wilderlab
Build relevant skills and experience
Part-time work and volunteering during study all help to increase your job prospects when you graduate. Gaining work experience as a lab demonstrator, tutor or research assistant during your studies is also a valuable way to gain relevant experience to increase your employability. Summer internships run by Plant & Food Research every year are a great way to learn more about careers in this area and develop practical workplace experience. Programmes such as Wellington Plus, and Wellington International Leadership Programme (WILP) offer opportunities to gain diverse volunteer and leadership experience.
Make career connections
Making connections with individuals and groups during your degree can help you learn more about career opportunities. Chiasma is a student-led organisation that focuses on linking Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) students with industry. Chiasma has regional committees including one in Wellington that hosts development and networking opportunities. BIOTech New Zealand is an alliance of biotechnology companies and you can subscribe to find out about key organisations in the industry and upcoming special events and receive their newsletter. The Wellington Chamber of Commerce and Wellington Young Professionals also offer various events and opportunities for networking. The Alumni as Mentors programme for final-year students also helps enhance your connections and employability while studying.