A biotechnology technician is a person who typically works in a laboratory, assisting scientists with biotechnology research, development, and testing. Although a technician’s specific responsibilities vary, they are typically in charge of setting up the lab, troubleshooting equipment issues, and preparing solutions for scientific tests. Technicians can also collect and record data from simple scientific procedures. Agricultural and food science technicians, biological technicians, and chemical technicians, for example, may work in a variety of biotechnology fields and have a variety of job titles. A biotechnology technician can also work as a forensic science technician or as an environmental science technician.
In the field of agricultural and food science, a biotechnology technician is usually involved in animal, fiber, or food research. Experiments and other tests are typically conducted these technicians in order to improve the quality and yield of various crops. They also help scientists in experiments to improve insect and disease resistance in certain plants and animals. Some technicians may be used to breed various animal species for nutrition research. Analyzing, recording, and compiling test results, as well as cleaning and sterilizing laboratory equipment, are all responsibilities of agricultural technicians.
In the biological sciences field, technicians typically assist scientists who are conducting various types of medical research in order to find cures for specific diseases. They could also work for a pharmaceutical company, where they would assist in the development of new drugs and vaccines. Microbiology technicians can examine a variety of organic matter, such as food or blood.
In the chemical industry, a biotechnology technician will typically assist a chemical engineer or chemist in the development of new chemicals or other related products. Water or air samples may be collected and analyzed technicians involved in certain types of research and development projects to determine pollution levels.
Environmental science technicians are typically in charge of monitoring a variety of environmental resources. These technicians typically conduct a variety of field and laboratory tests in order to identify potential pollution sources in the environment. Hazardous materials are also controlled and managed environmental technicians.
In forensic science, biotechnology technicians collect and analyze physical evidence recovered from crime scenes. These technicians are frequently experts in fields like firearms or DNA analysis. In some types of criminal cases, forensic technicians may be called upon to testify in court as an expert witness or prepare reports for investigators.