Genetic Engineering

Within Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering is arguably the most complicated and cutting-edge field. It involves deliberate manipulation of an organism’s genetic material (DNA) by artificial methods. It is applied in plants to change the color, size, texture, and other attributes so as to improve its quality and quantity; the resultant creations are referred to as GM (Genetically Modified) foods. In humans, GE is employed to correct severe hereditary defects by introducing normal genes into cells in place of missing or defective ones. It can stimulate growth and yield a variety of food crops, thus alleviating the problem of food shortage and mitigating the suffering of starving millions across the globe. The scope of Genetic Engineering is limitless and its horizon is widening with every day of research. Genetic Engineering, like many other branches of science, is controversial on the ethics front.

Courses and Eligibility:

The eligibility criterion for admissions to a bachelor’s programme is a 10+2 pass in the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as core subjects. The 2-year MTech course can be pursued after successfully completing an undergraduate course. Students must go through entrance exams such as GATE for admissions to BTech and MTech courses. One can also opt for a doctorate degree (PhD) under the guidance a professor/lecturer.

Job Prospects:

Thanks to recent medical advancements that are nothing short of revolutionary, professionals in Genetic Engineering are in great demand in India as well as abroad. They can easily find jobs in medical and pharmaceutical industries or in the agriculture sector; there are many opportunities in the research and development departments of government and private organizations. The Institute of Genomic and Integrative Biology, Delhi; Biochemical Engineering Research and Process Development Centre, Chandigarh; the Centre for DNA Fingerprint and Diagnostics, Hyderabad; the National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi are some of the top recruiters of Genetic Engineering graduates.

Remuneration:

A fresher can initially draw around Rs. 8,000–10,000 per month. But with experience the salary might shoot up to Rs. 20,000. Remunerations in this field are as high as the individual’s professional skills are strong.