Ask your questions related to jobs and careers in Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences and related disciplines.
If you are just getting started, here are some articles that you may be interested in:
- Biomedical Science Jobs and Careers
- PhD in Biomedical / Biological / Life Sciences – Tips For Application and Admission
- Jobs after MS in Biomedical Engineering, biotechnology, life sciences in USA
- Food Science and Technology Careers in India
- Careers in Translational Medicine
- Pharmacy Careers and Jobs | Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Introduction to Pharmacy: Top courses and colleges in India
Hi Sir,
I have recently completed my m.sc in biotechnolgy from Central University of Rajasthan. And i want to make my career in biotech industry. I did homework for that but did’nt get any fruitful result. If possible then plz suggest me in which field there is more growth (in terms of salary too) either rnd, production, qa or qc. I consulted many peoples but majority of them are saying there is very little scope/ growth in biotech industry for m.sc students…so go for p.hd. Sir, my aim is to join a biotech company in US were i can earn a handsome salary. So plzz tell me is there any chance of getting job abroad after taking 2 yrs of industry experience.
Hi Amitabh,
It’s a bitter truth – majority of people in India will speak against a career in biotechnology. Another harsh fact is that the biotechnology job market is indeed very competitive.
You can consider the following plan:
– Try to relocate to Hyderabad, Bangalore, Pune or Mumbai. Do strategic and rigorous networking (Faculty members, alumni, friends, social media etc.). Get in touch with headhunters and talent acquisition professionals.
– Give yourself at least 3 – 4 months in the new city. It can take that much time for a fresher to find something suitable. While searching jobs try to gain some new skills. You can also do some kind of short course (Creative Writing or Regulatory Affairs) while searching jobs.
– Try Biotech, Pharma and FMCG companies; and also research institutes.
– Regarding the abroad plan – we can discuss after 2/3 months.
I hope the above plan does work out regarding the job hunt. Do make sure you to do a Certificate/Short course while job hunting.
Good Luck !
Hello sir
I am gitika. I have taken admission in bsc biomedical science but doesn’t know about it . I do not want to go in research field. So pls tell me how can I excel in this field i love biology? What is better for me MSc or MBA after bsc ?. And how can I prepare for MBA. ? Which companies hire biomedical science masters generally? .
Hi Gitika,
Since you just started, do give yourself sometime. Know the field a little more.
Besides research, you can also pursue a career in Medical Writing, Brand Management, Scientific Journalism etc. – all of these options will allow you to follow your interest in Biology without doing lab research.
MSc or MBA – this discussion should wait till you move towards the end of your 2nd year (or at least halfway in your BSc).
hello Sir
i am Ashutosh , i have completed my msc biotechnology from Bangalore univerisity. i would like to become a Cancer researcher. can you suggest me the way to go for Cancer researcher? and also tell me what actually i have to do for that. Thank you
Hi Ashutosh,
The best step would be to join a lab (in a research institute) that is working on cancer. You can also join a Pharma-Biotech company.
In order to become a credible and independent researcher, PhD is the stepping stone (just the start). So, after gaining at least 2 years of research experience, try for PhD in abroad.
You should refer to my article on “PhD in Biomedical / Biological / Life Sciences – Tips For Application and Admission”, and the ink is given above in the post.
Best Wishes,
Tanmoy
Hello Tanmoy!
I am graduate in Biomedical science from Delhi University.
My next step is to persue Masters in science. The problem is that I’m totally confused what subject /coarse should I go for. I’m selected for MSc in Bioinformatics from Jamia Milia Islamia University. I’m also good in computer stuffs and can do programming as well. Is there any good career prospects in Bioinformatics in India as well as abroad? I’ve to decide it in 3 days from now or else this chance will slip off my hands and I’ve to drop a year then.
So can you please give me some satisfactory suggestion whether I should go for Bioinformatics or not? And what PhD can I do for it then? And enough good payscale in jobs after experience?
I just don’t want to regret at age of 35 :p
Thanks
Rohan
Hey Tanmoy,
I completed my Msc in biotechnology from St.Xavier’s college kolkata in 2016. I have an overall cgpa of 7.9. I am yet to take the gre and the toefl test which i hope to appear for next month.I want to do my phd from abroad but i am so confused as to which universities i should apply to? I wish to work in the field of virology. I do not have any publications but i have a work experience of around 8 months(i don’t even know if that counts). people keep saying that you should apply to the universities you think are achievable but with this profile i have no idea as to where i should apply? as this entire process of sending applications also costs a lot of money i do not want to make an uninformed and stupid decision. Can you please help me with my problem?
Hi Tanmay,
I have completed my B. Tech in Biotechnology from IIT Guwahati and want to pursue Masters abroad in Bioinformatics especially relating to use of Machine learning in genome analysis. My GRE score is 319 (Q – 168, V-151).I am having tough time shortlisting universities. I also wanted to know the countries with most opportunities in this field. Can you help me out?
Hi… now m studying in bsc Biotechnology in 5 sem n i like to msc in biomedical science so plzzzz suggest me biomedical science courses n best collages in india.
Hello sir,
I’am in third year of my B.Sc. Biotechnology(hons) programme. This is the right time when i have to decide what career line i should choose.
Since i don’t like to study genetics and genomics part of biotech therefore i’am more interested to do M.Sc. in Environmental biotech, Industrial biotech or Food technology rather than M.Sc. biotechnology. I want to work abroad. I’am very much confused right now. Can you please help me out to find the right career path. I read your article about food tech. and it made me more interested in food tech. I want to know the scopes of the subjects i mentioned above.
your answer will be a great help 🙂
Hi Parul,
To keep things simple, go for MSc in Food Biotechnology or Environmental Biotechnology in countries like Australia, Ireland, Netherlands, Sweden, New Zealand or Canada.
Food Biotechnology will be a little bit more exciting, and you can expect higher salaries in comparison to Environmental Biotechnology.
I would like to recommend the following two courses for you:
http://ecahe.eu/w/index.php/SEFOTECH_nut_-_European_MSc_in_food_science,_technology_and_nutrition
https://www.kth.se/en/studies/master/industrialbio/description-1.48682
Good Luck!
hello tanmoy,
I read your article and must say it’s really inspiring and clears most of the doubts regarding courses and career options.I have done my graduation in plant biotechnology and now I am still not able to decide which is a better career option-pharmacy or becoming a medical coder.Can you please guide me?
Hi Anshu,
I hope you did enjoy the subject of Plant Biotechnology. With a Bachelor degree in Plant Biotechnology, go for MSc in Plant Science/Biology, Agricultural Science/Biotechnology.
In case you wish to get into the Pharmaceutical industry – try for MSc in Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or Phytochemistry.
hello sir,
this is jiya khandelwal, a 4th year student, pursueing b-tech+m-tech in biotechnology (dual degreec ourse, a 5 year program) wants to go abroad for higher studies. First a fall, i would thanku for helping the people by your articles and advises.
well, since being a 4th year student, my major/thesis project is related to toxicology in terms of environmental biotech, but, i always wanted/want a career in healthcare feild , related to medicine, clinical trials, diagnostics and therapeutics. as , in the college , we do not have chance to select our project rather it is given on random basis, so, can a Phd. in the feilds mentioned above (in which i am interseted ) , can it be possible, by not having research papers published in the area one is intersted?
Also,how if not getting into Phd. , then into a masters program?. but, since in US, UK and Australia there are no. of courses which i like according to my interests (like clinical and translational medicine; molecular diagnostics; pharmacology and toxicology,- these are all related to biomedical sciences only) . so, please can u mention the courses related to my interest and with good pay at the industry level, as have read that getting a good salary in biomedical sciences is quite tough and tricky. also, always been a good scorer in academics, i always want a job whose pay would be at least same as of the doctors. i know that inetrest is one thing ,but, having a good salary only leads to worth in the society. so, i aim at having a job pay of at least +100k$ ,as in the end i want to love my job and be proud of what i am doing by getting into a reputable position in the job. so, accordingly, which type of course and job in the feild of healthcare and at industry would satisfy my desire what i want to be? as, i am highly aspired to work for the healthcare sector , thus, for the welfare of the people.
also, i have heard from a lot of people, that after Phd. it is hard to get in to industry, as i personally do not want a career in academia. so, please can u explain the advantages of having a Phd. over a double masters (in my case) at industry level( in terms of opportunities and pay) ? also, wanted to know the universities giving integrated courses of ms-phd programs in USA, UK and Australia.
thanking you !
Hi Jiya,
If I understood correctly, I guess you are looking for these kind of programs:
https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/courses/molecular-medical-sciences/molecular-genetics-and-diagnostics-msc.aspx
http://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/coursefinder/courses/162977.html
https://le.ac.uk/courses/molecular-pathology-and-therapeutics-of-cancer-msc
http://www.gla.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/translationalmedicalsciences/
http://www.reading.ac.uk/ready-to-study/study/subject-area/zoology-pg/msc-molecular-medicine.aspx
https://www.tcd.ie/courses/postgraduate/az/course.php?id=DPTMD-MMED-3F09
http://www.uu.se/en/admissions/master/selma/program/?pKod=MBK2M
https://www.imperial.ac.uk/medicine/study/postgraduate/masters-programmes/msc-molecular-medicine/
Short answer for following your interest and career goal:
– Do an MSc in related subjects (you can choose any of the above programs or look at my article on Translational Medicine) ideally in Europe (Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands, Denmark, Ireland). You can also do MRes from UK (Newcastle or Queen’s University Belfast)
– Try to get into an industrial set up (say University spin-off).
– While working, start working on GMAT preparation
– After working for 3 – 4 years, go for an MBA in Europe, Singapore, USA or Australia
– Then try for Pharmaceutical / Biotech / Healthcare companies
– This should help you to pursue your interests, and earn $100K+ per annum.
Hope this helps.
Hello sir,
I am in my last year of MSc in biotechnology from Mumbai university. I’ve always wanted to work in Biotech companies, however being in masters everyone’s being advising me to go for PhD. I am not very much interested in research stuff and hence I’ve been thinking of going for MBA. I’m still confused. Can you please help me with this decision making? I also want to go abroad for further studies and getting in for PhD there looks quite tough. So what way should I go? which one’s more beneficial in terms of getting good salary? PhD or MBA? Also what universities offer full scholarships?
Thank you,
Sash.
Sasha, if you are not interested in research – don’t go for PhD.
I would suggest you to go for job after Masters. Work for 2 – 3 years, and then go for MBA.
Hello Sir, I am Shriram i had done two Mtech degree one from IISc Mtech in Nano science and engineering (my reasearch area was nanobiotechnology ) and second one was from IIT-Kanpur Mtech in Biological science and engineering (CPI = 8.75). I am mainly interested in nano drug design and delivery. And i have also co-authored in two peered-reviewed journals.
I just want to know from you that can i get admission in programme of HST of MIT for Phd.
Thanking You
Shriram
Shriram, it will be quite difficult to say anything. However, I do feel that you have a very good chance. The rest will depend on your GRE score and SOP.
Hello Tanmoy,
Kudos for your articles. They are very informative and pretty motivational.
Its Ritwika Biswas, a final year student of M.Sc. Zoology at DU. Right now I m working towards my applications to grad schools for Fall 2017 in US for a PhD position in Molecular Biology and Cell Biology. Towards this I m giving the GRE in mid October. I have a score of 80% in my Bachelor’s (in Zoology) also from DU, but my Masters scores are dwindling. How much do I need to score in both Masters and GRE to get into an Ivy League college? Also, do you think it will be better if I apply to EU universities as well?
I was also wondering about the pros and cons of PhD in universities and institutes. Since your field of interest overlaps mine, it would be very helpful of you if you can suggest me some universities or laboratories that are doing good Cancer research.
Some people stress that its always a good idea to work on the professor-student relationship BEFORE starting the application procedure. Since most of the application deadlines are in December, it is hard for me to start building it with the professors now. Another option will be to start mailing them AFTER the applications, do you think this might cause some negative impression?
And for any admission the most important will be the SoP, what does an extremely good SoP looks like? And what all should I include in my SoP and in what order?
Thank You in advance.
Hi Ritwika,
You can still contact some of the Professors in the US universities. I won’t recommend contacting them after submitting the application.
Do proper research about them. Read their papers and know about their available projects. Discuss your profile and research interests (send your CV as well). Just try to get an idea – you will need to believe in your gut instincts as well.
Regarding universities that are doing good research in Cancer Biology, it will be a long list. I would suggest you to do your research using websites like US News, PubMed, Nature, Science etc. For European institutes, you can also refer to my previous article – https://www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2015/07/10/phd-in-biomedical-sciences-admission-tips/
Hello Sir,
I’ve done Bsc in Biotechnology and now i am doing Msc in Food Science and Technology from D.Y Patil University (New Mumbai). I’m wish to do training courses like ISO 22000 certification or HACCP and i am also planning to give MPSC exam for Food Safety Officer. What other options do i have after my Msc as i wish to study and learn more. Other than FSO, what are the other posts i can try for after my degree?
Thank You
Hi Wafaa,
Food Safety Officer will be a nice position to go after.
If you wish to learn more, do consider PhD (or MRes) options in abroad. However, I would advise working 1 – 2 years (minimum) before applying for research positions in abroad – that will give you an advantage over other applicants.You can consider areas like Food Microbiology or Food Biotechnology.
Please refer to this article as well: https://www.careerizma.com/blog/food-science-technology-careers/
Hello Tanmoy,
You are doing a great job! I completed my Masters in Bioinformatics from UVCE Bangalore in 2013, I want to pursue PhD in Munich ,Germany since I am residing here.There is a gap of three years in my career. Meanwhile, I worked as a Java developer for 6 months in a start up software company in Germany.I also have 6 months research experience after my Bachelors from IBAB. No publications. Do you think I have a chance of getting into PhD here? My Scores are pretty good and I am very much interested to pursue a career in this field.No doubt in that.
Hi Pooja,
It might be a little tough for you to get a PhD in Munich (or in Germany) without considerable research experience and publications. The 3-year gap is also not going to help you too much. Though your overall profile is decent, PhD admission in Germany for Biomedical Sciences is extremely competitive.
My suggestions:
– Try to get a Research Assitant job. Work for 1 – 2 years and then convert that position into a PhD one.
– Take admission for a Masters program, and then apply for PhD. I would also suggest integrated MS-PhD programs (e.g. University of Ulm, FAU etc.).
Good Luck !
Yes! I am trying for the RA positions. Thank you so much for your suggestions
In order to apply for phd in Cancer bilogy in Us where I can get research experience in India? I have completed my MSc in Cancer Biology from University of Mysore.
Hi Abantika,
You can try IACR / TMC / ACTREC, NSCRI, SHRU, ICSCCB, Amala Institute of Medical Sciences, RGCIRC, RCCTVM, Saroj Gupta Cancer Centre & Research Institute, NIBMG, TIFR, ACBRDU, NCCS, National Institute of Immunology, RGCB, IISER Pune, NCBS, TTCRC, JNCASR, Mahavir Cancer Institute & Research Centre.
I have used quite a few acronyms. But, if simply enter the terms on Google (can also add “Cancer”), you will find the institutes quite easily.
Best Wishes,
Tanmoy
hello sir,
I have completed my Bachelor in Biotechnology Engineering (B.E. Biotechnology) from Thadomal Shahani Engineering College , Mumbai with CGPA of 8.15 . I am interested in a R&D or QA-QC based career in “Food Science and Technology”.For the same I wish to complete my masters abroad.
GRE score : 315 TOEFL score: waiting for it.
Which universities in Canada or USA would you recommend me to apply to?
Hi Mithila,
You can consider the following ones:
Texas A&M University
UC Davis
University of Florida
University of Missouri
Michigan State University
Iowa State University
Purdue University
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Oklahoma State University
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Pennsylvania State University
Ohio State University
Clemson University
University of Minnesota
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Mississippi State University
North Carolina State University
New York University
University of Connecticut
University of British Columbia
University of Guelph
McGill University
University of Manitoba
Carleton University
Saskatchewan University
Thank you sir.
Which country is better to pursue masters in food technology?
Hello sir , i am very much intended to do phd in biotechnology in abroad. I have done b.pharm with 8.92 cgpa , with GPAT , currently i am purshuing ms(pharm.) in biotechnology from niper mohali,. I dont have any GRE/TOEFL .plss inform me the creteria to getting phd in Belgium, Switzerland, Germany or south asian or any other university where i can apply without GRE/TOEFL?
Hi Pradyot,
Please refer to this article: https://www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2015/07/10/phd-in-biomedical-sciences-admission-tips/
I would also recommend you to read this one: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/transferable-skills-alternative-careers-biomedical-science-tanmoy-ray
On another note – please consider gathering some research (wet lab) experience before applying for the PhD.
Hello Sir,
I have recently completed my B.E. In biotechnology and I am interested in food technology. Can you please tell me what are the options in this field other than R&D after MS in food technology.
Hi Disha,
There are various opportunties within the Food Technology sector other than R&D – QA/QC, Food Processing & Preservation, Sales, Marketing, Product Management & Branding etc.).
Please also refer to this article: https://www.careerizma.com/blog/food-science-technology-careers/
Hi sir
I have completed mbbs in india.What are the options for me for PhD in neuroscience abroad(with funding) or India.What exams I have to take.Please elaborate.Thanks in advance.
Hi Kcl,
Please refer to the following article: https://www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2015/07/10/phd-in-biomedical-sciences-admission-tips/
Since you are from MBBS background, a Masters in Neuroscience will help you to get an edge. Alternatively, consider working for 1 – 3 years to get some research experience (and preferanbly get a couple of publications under your belt). Getting a fully-funded PhD from abroad is very competitive; especially for the candidates applying from India. So, a Masters degree in Neurscience and/or research experience in relevant field will help you a lot.
hi sir .im doing my bsc in microbiology biochem nd zoology. i want to do masters in biochem. how can i build my career in nueroscience???how nd where shud i do my internships???how can i get the alerts about that??? wat is d value of doing MD in biochem (1year) in iisc???? can i b succesful in forensic too????
Hi Ashwini,
While studying MSc in Biochemistry, try to do your research project (thesis) in the field of Neuroscience. If you refer to my previous posts, you will find several institutes where you can do your internship from. You can also refer to the websites like “Internshala”, “Lets Intern”, “Peshaa”, “Any Intern”, “Eduinfo”, “We Make Scholar” etc. to get alerts for regarding internships.
MD in Biochemistry will be appropriate for your background; you need to be from MBBS background to do MD in Biochemistry.
Yes, you can also consider a career in Forensic Science too. However, in that case MSc in Forensic Science will be better.
Hello Tanmoy,
I am in by final year of BE Biotechnology in one of the top colleges in Bangalore. I wish to pursue a PhD in the area of neurodegeneration and regenerative biology.
GRE – 163V 164Q 4.5AWA (Total 327)
TOEFL – 115
GPA – 9.44/10 (87%) – Class rank 1
I have had summer research experiences at NCBS and then at a top 20 US uni under a prestigious fellowship both in the same areas as my interest. I have also done some research in college though it has nothing to do with the areas I am interested in. However, they have yielded 2 publications. One coauthor (Elsevier) another first author (non-indexed). I have also been accepted for a fellowship abroad for my final thesis which I will be indicating in my SOP. I am getting my LORs from the US prof and 2 more from HOD and department prof under both of them I have done substantial research and the LORs will be strong. Can you please recommend me universities that I can apply to for PhD – usually graduate programs in Cell and Molecular Biology or Biomedical Sciences, etc?
Hi Raghav,
You can consider the following universities (not an exhaustive list though): University of Michigan, University of Maryland, University of Southern California, University of Washington, UT Health, UT Southwestern, Johns Hopkins University, UC Davis, Wake Forest University, Harvard University, Caltech, UC San Francisco.
Hello sir, My name is Suraj and currently I am in the final year of my Msc biotechnology from VIT university. I would like to go for PhD abroad as I have interest in genetics and stem cells. But I have a CGPA of 8.44 so can I go with this CGPA.? I havent given my IELTS and GRE , I am planning to take the exam during March. So will it be too late to apply? And further more, I have muscular dystrophy. So will it be an issue to get admission in the university? Thank you 🙂
Hi Suraj,
You won’t face any discrimination on the basis of your medical condition. So, don’t worry about that. Do make sure to declare that during your applications. If you are planning to appear for GRE and IELTS in March next year, then it will be late for Fall 2017. In that case, you should target for 2018 intakes (Spring and Fall).
Let me know if you have got further queries.
Dear Tanmoy,
you are doing great service. I am in final year Biotech engg (SRM univ). GRE 163/162 (325), AWA 4.5, Toefl 115, CGPA 9.01,with one publication having IF of 2.5. Wish to apply for a mix of Direct PhDs and MS in US universities in tne area of cellular and molecular biology/cancer biology. However I find that most top univs are offering only PhD prog. I am not sure if I will make the cut for PhD given that it is competitive. what should be my startegy – Apply 5 top PhD prog (UT austin, U of Michigan Annarbor, U of IL, urbanachampaign, U Penn and Penn state followed by Purdue)
Apply for MS in SUNY,buffalo and Rutgers. Pl comment on the above shortlist and suggest modifications and also add few more for MS.
Hi Nimmi,
In case you don’t have that much research experience, you should ideally apply to 6 programs – 2 PhD programs and 4 MS programs. If you wish to have assistance regarding PI/University shortlisting, please let us know.
Tanmoy
Thanks Sir. I would love to receive your recommendation/shortlisting of PhD and MS for my profile. Appreicate your support,
Hello sir
Im currently studying in 12 and i want to study bsc microbiology but many people have told me that its not a good option for further studies since it doesn’t have much scope and I’m really confused whether i should go for it or not and if i should go for it then what other major should i opt for genetics or biochemistry with microbiology
I might be studying in maharashtra in future so is there much scope for this ?
Hi Abbas,
BSc Microbiology would be a good choice after Class 12. However, at Bachelors level I would advise you not to get too streamlined. Hence, BSc Microbiology with Biochemistry or Molecular Biology would be better.
In case you are really keen, you can go ahead. With BSc Microbiology you can later go for Masters in Food Technology, Immunology or Biomedical Sciences. Core options like MSc Medical Microbiology or Virology would be there as well. In tropical and developing countries like India, Microbiology has got excellent research scopes.
Hello sir,
I had completed Bsc (Hons) in Biomedical Sciences from a branch of UK university in Singapore. My average for last 2 years is 70 and I got a first class Honors Degree. Currently I am working as a food technologist (R&D) in a snack food manufacturing MNC in Singapore for about a year. I would like to know whether it is possible to pursue masters of food science and technology in Canada? My intention is to study food science masters degree in Canada, find a job there after study and to settle there as a PR. As most of the technical fields in Canada needs a bachelor or diploma of related study (food technology in my case) to get a license to work there, is it possible for a non-food science bachelor degree holder with Canadian Msc in food science (after I completed the MSc) and a few years of food industry work experience in overseas to get a food-science related job over there.? Another option which I am thinking to do is just taking an advanced diploma (undergrad course) in food science technology in Centennial College in Canada to be able to learn basic and practical food science skills so that I would be able to get a job with lower pay (compared to masters). But of course my top priority is to go for masters degree. Please give me some advices, sir.
Hi Jimmi,
Since you have already done a Bachelors (BSc Hons), going for an advanced Diploma (Undergraduate program) is not logical – that is very likely to give you a Study Visa rejection in Canada (or any other foreign country).
Your academic profile and work experience are very good. I would definitely recommend you to go for a Masters degree (or PG Diploma can be an alternative) in Canada. Once you finish your Masters in Canada, you will get stay back of option (2 – 3 years). I don’t see any major problem in your case to get a job and work permit in Canada. Regarding PR – that’s not my forte; so can”t comment on it. But, if you develop a good skill set, and prove yourself valuable to the economy, PR is also not too hard.
Tanmoy
I live in bangladesh. Just completed my H.S.C examination. I am thinking about taking biotechnology for my undergraduate course. But i am not sure if its right for me. Can you give me a complete idea what they will be teching me over these 3-4 years of course. It will be really kind of you. I have read your other replies and have seen how they seemed useful. Thats why i came to you. Please reply soon.
Hi Adnan,
The first year will mainly include Biology (Plant & Human), Physics, Chemistry (Organic, Inroganic and Analytical). In the following years, you will come across subjects like Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genetics, Molecular & Cell Biology, Immunology etc. Towards the end of your degree, you will also go through industrial projects (or internships), summer training, research project (dissertation) etc.
Feel free to go through the following two articles to have further information:
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/exciting-world-applied-biology-subjects-career-paths-tanmoy-ray
https://www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2014/11/23/biomedical-science-jobs-careers/
Best Wishes,
Tanmoy
Dear Sir,
I completed my B-Tech in Food Technology in 2016 from Techno India,Salt Lake affiliated to Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology formerly known as West Bengal University of Technology. My cgpa is 7.62. I scored 91.57% in class 10,2009 and 73% in class 12,2011. I have a one year gap because I was preparing to crack the medical entrances which eventually I could not. Companies came to our college but the they hired the male candidates.Few local companies hired female candidates with a very low scale salary. I did not sit for those jobs as I hoped better companies would come which eventually did not. I am very late for Fall 17 and I want to apply for Winter 18 or Spring 18. I want to do my Masters in Food Science preferably from Canada then USA. I want to know how much do I need to score in GRE and TOEFL .Also which colleges would suit my profile and the availability of Financial Aid .
I forgot to mention that I did Industrial Training for one-month and a project.
Hi Oishani,
Sorry for replying after ages; I missed out on this comment.
You’re not very late for Fall 2017 unless you haven’t started the process (appearing for tests and researching universities). You are obviously late for the Canadian Universities though.
For Food Science & Technology, anything above 300 – 305 in GRE would be great. If you wish to have a shot at the top 15 schools, then you will need 317+ (with 158+ in Quants). In TOEFL, 95 – 100 would be a good score.
A personalized list of universities would be hard to suggest at this stage. You can refer to my earlier post on Food Science & Technology to get the list of universities in US & Canada.
I hope this helps.
Hello tanmoy
I am currently in 2nd year of bsc. biochemistry(Delhi university).
I want to pursue my integrated msc and PhD from abroad.
Can u suggest me which university can provide me with best study in research and with highest scholarship.
Hi Simran,
US universities would be ideal for integrated PhD programs. Suggesting a list would be little hard here. You can get in touch with the Careerizma Team if you wish to have further assistance.
Hello Tanmoy,
I hold a B.E in Biotechnology from Bangalore with 76%,2015. I wish to pursue M.S in Biomedical Sciences with a specialization in Pharmacology or cancer biology or regenerative medicine. I have a GRE score of 292 and TOEFL 96 (both on the lower end). Can you suggest some US universities wherein i can get admits for fall 2017.
I did apply to a few Canadian universities,couldn’t get through apparently the profile wasn’t a match.
Regards,
Veena
Hi Veena,
Yes, 292 is a bit borderline for most the universities for Pharmacology or Cancer Biology. But, you can leverage that with your Personal Statement, Recommendations, and other components.
I would advise you to get in touch with the Careerizma Team and share your CV (with extra and co-curricular activities). I can then suggest few universities.
The universities mentioned for studying in abroad are in order of most preffered or randomly named ?
Hi Tanmoy,
Thanks for the great information n guidance that you are sharing with all. While i have gone through various links, I have a fundamental query which are the best institutes to pursue graduate degree in Field of biology n related fields like bio-medical, bio med engineering, etc. As a Bsc or b.tech degree would be the first step to choose a career from the various options advised by you. My daughter is studying in 11th n she does not want to Mbbs or engineering but want to pursue research based career in biology or physics (more inclined towards) bio, hence this question. Kindly advice
Thanks
Hi Rahul,
Apologies for the late reply.
The problem is India hasn’t got any ranking table. The MHRD started ranking institutes in India in 2016 only. But, that is only for Top 100 overall and Top 50 for Pharmacy. So, that is not always useful because the number of institutes in India is in thousand. Besides, there is no specific ranking for Biomedical Sciences.
I would suggest do your research (it will take time). Keep a check on the NAAC score of the institute, check reviews on websites like Careers360, College Duniya etc., the credibility of the faculty members, lab facilities, and collaborations with foreign institutes and industries.
Thanks Tanmoy for the info. One related question…is it that one should do a general Bsc degree followed by PG in biomedical or what should be approach
Kindly advise
Thanks again for the inputs
BSc can be done in a broad domain like Biomedical Sciences, Life Sciences, or Biosciences. Alternatively, streamlined subject like Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genetics etc.
Hello Sir,
I am currently pursuing Btech Food Technology from Delhi University. I want to do my masters from abroad and then settle abroad as well. What will the better choice between Canada and New Zealand considering all the factors like quality of education, employment oppurtunities, good pay package etc.
Hi Radhika,
Both are good destinations. But, I will prefer New Zealand in your case. The food industry in NZ is really good. Though it’s a very small country, they need qualified and skilled people for the Food & Beverage industry. But, Canada is also equally good, but slight advantage to NZ from my point of view.
sir,
i am doing Mtech biotech from a prestigious but private university in biotechnology want to apply for PHD abroad especially europe or and singapore but dont know which specialised field and how to apply kindly help me.
Hi Saksham,
I hope you have got some good research exposure as European Universities hardly take PhD candidates without research experience. Singapore has got only two decent universities – NUS and NTU. They are very competitive and require GRE score as well. Again, the research experience and publications will matter. Please refer to my previous article on MBA Crystal Ball – https://www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2015/07/10/phd-in-biomedical-sciences-admission-tips/
RESPECTED Tnmoy Sir
My daughter is in 1oth standard. She will try for MBBS by appearing NEET for Govt. Seat. She is interested in biology, zology as she is weak in maths. She is interested in research & analytical professions. I want to know which field is best for her as per current trend & also considering after two years she will going to select her field in which she wants to make career as profession.’
WITH RESPECT
BIPIN
Hi Bipinji,
You could have avoided the SIR address. Anyway, your daughter can definitely go for Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacy, Life Sciences or Agricultural Science. All of these fields will be in demand forever. But, these fields are not like other fields such as Big Data Analytics, Cyber-security, or Digital Marketing, which more often than not are always trending as career options.
Hope this helps.
Hi sir, I have completed my bachelor’s degree i.e., BSc biotechnology,microbiology and chemistry with 85%from kakatiya university,Now i want to do Msc Biotechnology in abroad but i have come to know that to do msc in abroad 4year degree is required can you suggest me the country and best university with my above said elgibility . Thankyou sir
Hi Deepika,
A 4-year degree is a mandatory requirement for Masters in US, Canada, and very few European universities. So, you can consider countries like the UK, Australia, Sweden, Ireland, Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Denmark.
It’s hard to recommend the Best University. Your profile is good. I would suggest shortlisting universities after referring to tables like QS, THE etc. Do good research on the university requirements, ongoing research projects, faculties, and research facilities.
A personalized university-shortlisting is beyond the scope here.
Let me know if you have got further queries.
hello sir,myself tejaswi…now,i am studying bsc biotechnology,i want to pursue PHD in biotech after completing msc degree…i want to know the duration and good place to pursue my phd degree.
Hi Tejaswi,
I would suggest you reading my earlier posts, especially the following two:
Biomedical Science Jobs and Careers
PhD in Biomedical / Biological / Life Sciences – Tips For Application and Admission
You will find the links above.
sir,i’m a m.sc biotechnology(plant biotechnology) final year student..i want to know about the advantages and disadvantage of working as a bio technologist in foreign and also the job opportunity for working as a plant bio technologist in India..
Hi Subha,
Thanks for this comment. I am currently working on a blog article on Agriculture and Plant Biotechnology. Plant Biotechnology is a great field to work in. It has got good scopes in both abroad and in India. Being a biotechnology field, a PhD is very much needed if you want to see career progression. You don’t need to go for PhD straight after finishing MSc. I recommend working in an academic environment for 2 – 3 years before going for PhD (in abroad). You can always go for PhD in abroad after doing MSc from India. But, doing the MSc in abroad can help you to beat the competition for getting a PhD in abroad.
Coming to your queries –
Pros of working in foreign countries: good salary (with approximately 10% annual hike), nice work-life balance, encouraging work culture (depends on lab as well).
Cons of working in foreign countries: contract-based roles (2 – 3 years), visa restrictions, away from your family and friends. If you end up in an unfriendly lab, then things can be very painful.
Top Countries for Research Work in Plant Biotechnology: Sweden, Germany, USA, Ireland, UK, Denmark, Belgium.
Pros of working in India: You are in your home country, you don’t need to think about contracts and visa. If you join an Indian institute after PhD (and 3 – 5 years of post-doc experience from abroad), the salary levels are very good.
Cons of working in India: Competition, not that many good institutes, starting salary/stipend can be an issue (especially with an MSc degree).
Top Institutes for Education and Research in India: National Research Centre on Plant Biotechnology, Pondicherry University, IISER Bhopal, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, NIPER Mohali, BHU, University of Mysore. This is not an exhaustive list. There few more good institutes in India.
Stay tuned for my next post 🙂
Hi sir !!
I have completed my bsc in biochemistry. And i am looking forward to food science and technology from usa. My query is do us universities accept biochemistry undergraduates for pursuing ms in food science? And if not what qualifications would I require to do the same?
Hi Krishna,
You will be eligible for MS in Food Science & Technology with Biochemistry Major in Bachelors. Of course, admission chances will depend on your SoP, GRE score, GPA and LoR. I would also suggest you reaching out to the admission officers beforehand.
Hello,
I want to say that you are doing a great job.Myself Nida, I am a student of BTech Biotechnology, semester 8 .I plan to study abroad in Canada only
and I don’t understand which masters program should I choose which will be sync with my bachelors(leaving out MSc in Biotechnology)and will be good for my research career as I plan to do my Ph.D. don’t know which field be good that will have a scope in future to perform well in both Canada and India ,I’m interested in research as well as being a professor please give some tips .Which subject has a great scope in India research institutes and for being a professor?
Hi Nida,
You can go for MS in any branches of Biomedical Sciences. All of them provide good research opportunities. If you let me know about your interests (since Biotechnology is also very broad), I can suggest more precisely.
Am tejaswi again…thank u so much sir , for suggesting the links…now i have some idea about my studies…pls tell me the best colleges for doing msc in biotechnology in tamilnadu and pondichery districts….
Hi Tejaswi,
You can refer to sites like CollegeDuniya, Careers360, MingleBox etc. Please also keep an eye on the NAAC scores, research facilities, collaborations etc.
Dear Tanmoy Sir ,
I have done Msc Bioinformatics in 2015 after that am stuck with an accident and suggested for 1 year bed rest,recently I have joinned Biotech park lucknow as a research trainee .But I want to do Phd from abroad .I have prepared my cover letter and cv ad send to many PI .actually my problem is m graduated with BCA(Bachelor of computer application) and after that MSc Bioinformatics so m little bit weak in Biology but m perfect at computer end,I have not qualify any language test like gre ,ielet etc .So kindly suggest me that whether language test is compulsory or not?
2.Sir plz send me the links u have for Phd in Bioinformatics(Fully funded).
Regards
Nikhilesh Bhadauriya
Hi Nikhilesh,
I would suggest you to browse sites like NatureJobs, NewScientistJobs, Euraxess etc. Please also refer to my article for institutional links – https://www.mbacrystalball.com/blog/2015/07/10/phd-in-biomedical-sciences-admission-tips/
Dear Tanmoy sir,
i am a post graduate in biotechnology (bangalore university 2nd rank ,2015) ,i would like to go abroad for my higher studies . sir, can you please suggest me good courses (which are highly job oriented ) and the countries. and also i would like to know the advantages and disadvantages of the PG diploma courses in clinical research offered by many institutes in india, (if the PG Diploma in clinical research is a good option, which are the good institutes)
thanks
Rajasree
Hi Rajasree,
I am unable to suggest any course/university/country without having a knowledge about your background, interests, and goals. If you kindly tell me more about your profile, I can be of better help.
Dear sir
my son is in nit mtech in biotechnology……He has a telephonic interview from Texas A & M …..What should he expect ….Can u give some advice…..He scored 7.2 CGPA in btech…….329 in GRE…….116 in TOEFL…….Mtech till 3 SEM 8 CGPA…..Interested in research……. Kindly provide some guidance
Thanks
Nishu
Hi Nishu,
Kindly ask your son to prepare the following questions
Why this subject?
Why Texas A&M?
What are your research interests?
What are your short-term and long-term goals?
Tell us something about your research experience and achievements.
How can you help (add value) to the class or lab? (He needs to demonstrate some uniqueness with his background and technical skills – when I was getting interviewed for my Utrecht position, I had a prior look at the all the profiles and figured out I might be the only one with Pharmacology & Protein Chemistry background. Your son needs to do good research on the interviewer and the grad school/dept.).
He needs to know some of the recent trends of the research focus areas. He also needs to tell his hobbies and interests, in order to demonstrate that he is an interesting guy. He also needs to ask questions to the interviewer. I suggest him to be inquisitive and ask good questions.
Hope this helps!
Hi Tanmoy,
I am a masters student in life sciences in JNU and have a CGPA of 6(out of 9). I am still in the 4th semester and I think I will improve my grades and pull it up till 7.00 till the completion of my degree. I really want to pursue a PhD abroad but am apprehensive about it because my grades are not very good. I have cleared JRF and I think I will join at some reputed institute and keep applying for universities abroad. Although I feel lost when it comes to writing Research Proposals, and Motivation letters etc. Please guide me as to where I should apply, in terms of getting fellowships and also how do I write impressive SOPs etc.
Hi Mansi,
Grades are important, but not everything. Since you have already cleared JRF, I would suggest working as JRF for at least two years. After that, you can try for PhD in abroad. Another option would be pursuing a Masters degree from abroad after finishing your Bachelors, and then try for PhD.
Hello sir, this is Jhumi Jain, a student of an integrated course in biotechnology ,currently in my 4th year ! Well, first a fall, I really want to thank u for writing such helpful articles !
Sir , regarding my future studies, since I have my interest towards toxicological sciences, drug dev. Field , so I want to know courses dealing with these kind of research ! Also, I looked at some of the course like pharmacology and toxicology and was thinking to pursue m from USA/Canada/UK ! I’ll be giving my exams in a month or two ! But, being a biotech student, would it be right in changing my field , as my masters would be done in biotech,and also how much the mentioned course (in general ) would be different from biotech and I am not sure about PhD right now ! So, I am badly confused whether to go for pharmacology nd toxicology or look any other field (please suggest those) , as I always wanted to work in a medical type of field and on in-vitro pharmacological methods assessing the stages of drug effects ! Also, wanted to know if getting into this field is it necessary to work on in-vivo model organisms !?? Also, I have come across different professions like pharmakinetic scienticst, drug discovery scientist toxicology scientist , so are they all related to the degree, I mentioned or other !? And I also want to know the industrial set up and in what kind of industries, (please names them) hire the people in pharmacology and toxicology !? Also, can you please suggest the universities in the countries I mentioned before !
It would be very kind and helpful by your reply !
Hi Jhumi,
I am not sure how much Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacokinetics you have covered in your Integrated degree program. I assume one or two semesters. You can go for PhD in Pharmacology or Drug Discovery, provided you have got some relevant research experience. Getting a PhD – please refer to my article on PhD Application & Admission (listed above in the post).
Alternative 1: go for MS in Toxicology or Drug Discovery, then go for PhD.
Alternative 2: gain some research experience in a Toxicology / Pharmacokinetics (ADME) lab, then go for PhD.
hey nice to read
ur article..I m an graduate student with average grad score(btech in biotechnology)
and 3yrs gap with no research or job experience.During graduation,I had decided to do research ,moreover I could n’t get job. Actually I never liked testtube type lab work so much during my graduation tenure like dna testing,genetics,protein,DNA examination ..,but, I decided if I would something in future that will be biophysics(prosthetics,bio sensors,artificial heart,lungs anything that connect neurological part with machine part ) or bioengineering /bio processing(sewage recycling plant,water purification ).Then I decided to work for study abroad for masters ,but I was more worried about college scores which are just average as I could n’t get masters from desired college leaving alone integrated PhD where I could n’t get any
admission, moreover i m from average middle-class indian family ,and for me to study abroad required doing excessively well in masters at abroad in order to get scholarship or job after MS .so I decided to prepare myself and studied my subjects for 1yr in order to clear mybasics of graduation subject(biotechnology).and I did.. then I even gave some
masters examination here but unfortunately could ‘nt succeed because of non biotech topics…then I changed my preparations to bank (second Yr gap after grad).here I couldn’t succeed..and I m leaving it now, not because i cannot crack it but because after knowing bank officer’s daily routine life. Since I want that kind of job in which would have time to think about my research ,even during office hours at leisures .now I’m in equivocal state..As I have. wasted so much of time in doing nothing..and little confused….One thing is clear that I want to do something in biomedical(prosthetics ).If I m to stay in India I would do PhD in biomedics(prosthetics) or bioprocessing( option b:sewage t reatment plants) .I can’t afford to wasteone yr now, should I do MSC here apply for PhD abroad later or should I try MS abroad. now..(I have studying for too for 2yrs)
can i get biomedical. (prosthetic). PhD abroad later on even after doing MSC from environment science…. (one more thing I have limited options I can’t do mtech in present condition due to lack of time,being in 3yr gap)
Hi Nitin,
I am a bit lost with your query. Could you please answer the following questions:
1. What are you doing currently?
2. What are your research/professional interests and career goals?
3. Have you got any work and/or research experience – as an employee, intern or student?
I would certainly try to help you.
Hi Tanmoy,
I am planning to do my MS in Biomedical Sciences in fall2017 and i have applied to a couple of universities in USA and CANADA.However with the recent developments in USA about H1B and OPT i am a bit skeptical.i wanted to know your point of view on the same.should i go forward with my plans for USA.will it affect the research field as much as the IT fields.
Hi Veena,
As far as I understand, it shouldn’t affect the international students in the US. The new Govt. in the US is mostly against the H1B guys. International students studying in the US, especially those in the STEM field shouldn’t worry that much.
If you’re getting admission at the Tier 1 schools (not necessarily Top 25), you shouldn’t worry about the political scenario in the US or Canada.
Hello Sir,
I am grateful to you for guiding so many students regarding their career.Now I would like to inform you that I have completed my Bachelor’s degree in botany.Currently I am pursuing my Masters in Medical Biotechnology. I want to do a PhD in the field of cancer biology from any reputed university in the UK. I am a second class holder in graduation. Could you kindly suggest me some tips on how to get a fully funded scholarship for my PhD in the UK and also to which universities I can apply?
Your suggestions will be extremely appreciated.
Thank you.
Hi Kathakali,
PhD admission in abroad is quite competitive; especially for the applicants from India and China. With second class in graduation, it would be quite difficult.
However, there are other ways. Gain quality research experience: 3 – 4 years along with 3 – 4 publications. You can start attempting PhD applications from your 3rd year.
Another option – try to do one semester (a research project) of your Masters in the UK. Go for an MRes degree in the UK (try top 20 in the UK), and then try a fully-funded PhD from the UK. Imperial & Oxford will be the best options for PhD in Cancer Biology, and they do have funds to support international students. The one big hurdle will be the level of competition at those two institutes.
Hello sir,
Thank you very much for your suggestion . I want to know if there are any other institutes in the UK (besides Oxford and Imperial) which are good in the field of Cancer Biology but where competition is lesser than at Oxford or Imperial in order to get a fully funded PhD.
Hi Kathakali,
You can find other good universities in the UK with less competition. But, those universities might not have international (Non-EU) students right now. In that case, you can try other European countries, Australia, Canada, US.
Alternatively, go for M.Phil. in the UK. Later you can try to convert that into a funded PhD.
Biotechnology Career Options in Ireland
Those who want to explore research careers in biotechnology in foreign countries, Ireland is one of the dark horses. Of course, it’s not as established as USA, Canada, UK, Switzerland etc. But, research funding, post-study work opportunities for international students, relatively low cost of education, and the number of emerging startups in the biotechnology domain are all very promising signs. Besides, several IT & Tech Giants like Google, Facebook, Apple,Microsoft, LinkedIn, Twitter etc. have got their EMEA headquarters in Dublin (Ireland’s capital). So, apart from core Biotechnology and Biomedical Science, opportunities for E-Healthcare and Healthcare Informatics are also excellent.
Ireland is a small country. So, not many universities are there. Number of available jobs is also not very high. But, if you want to be Big Fish in a Small Pond, Ireland is a great option.
Read more about novel research insights, and companies in the areas of diagnostics, devices and bioinformatics in Ireland here: http://labiotech.eu/top-ireland-biotechs-2017