There are several career options for human and molecular geneticists in the rapidly expanding field of genetic research. Driven by advances in genetic technology, improvements in personalized medicine and the growing field of molecular diagnostics, there is an unprecedented need for qualified specialists.
The changing face of human genetics is fueling the need for skilled graduates
The demand for human and molecular genetics experts has never been higher, driven by the emergence of new genomic technologies, the development of personalized medicine and advances in molecular diagnostics.
The increasing use of these in healthcare, research and biologics manufacturing has led the global clinical diagnostics market to be valued at USD 86 billion by 2023.
In England alone, the National Health Service (NHS) carries out approximately 500 million biochemical and 130 million tests each year. As these areas continue to grow there is an increasing need for highly skilled personnel with a deep understanding of molecular genetics and a deep and diverse laboratory skill set. However, we are facing a skills shortage, so having a qualification in human and molecular genetics gives students these skills that are needed and makes them very attractive to employers.
What does the human and molecular genetics course involve?
The postgraduate course in human and molecular genetics uses theoretical modules to expose students to the breadth of human genetics and to provide them with a deep understanding of fundamental topics such as human genetics, molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, RNA metabolism and editing. genome (CRISPR ) Many courses offer the opportunity to enhance learning using more specialized areas such as clinical genomics, genome stability, bioinformatics, cytogenomics, cancer biology and clinical applications of molecular genetics.
In addition to academic studies, students should have an immersive experience in the laboratory, offered throughout the academic year and in several formats. Detailed practical modules provide hands-on training in a range of established techniques used in laboratories around the world such as molecular cloning, DNA gel electrophoresis, microbial manipulation, CRISPR, PCR, SDS-PAGE and western blotting. An independent laboratory research project allows you to delve into modern molecular genetics research while working with world-leading researchers and gaining advanced skills in techniques such as human cell culture, fluorescence microscopy, functional cytogenetics, qPCR , RNAi and many others.
As educators, we also believe in a holistic approach to learning, where not only should students acquire knowledge and practical skills, but we aim to develop them into scientists. The skills modules develop their critical analysis, project management, teamwork, problem solving and research skills, enabling them to tackle tasks with confidence, work at a professional level and become a scientist who can work at the forefront of molecular genetics.
Career opportunities available
Human genetics and molecular genetics graduates can pursue diverse and impactful careers in healthcare, research or industry, from patient-focused roles to developing the biotechnology that underpins healthcare or conducting research essential to understanding human disease.
One of the largest employers of human and molecular genetics graduates is the UK health sector. Medical laboratory assistants, genetic technologists and health care scientists use their laboratory skills to process patient diagnostic samples and prepare them for analysis. Clinical scientists use their extensive knowledge of clinical genetics to perform critical analysis of these samples and genetic counselors use their expert knowledge to assist patients in their diagnosis.
Many graduates go on to find good jobs working as research scientists, laboratory technicians, technicians and managers in Fortune 500 companies such as Pfizer and ThermoFisher or internationally renowned research centers such as the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, Wellcome Sanger Institute and Max Planck Institute. Others choose to further their academic endeavors by undertaking PhDs at world-leading research institutions or completing NHS graduate programs such as the Professional Training Program (PTP) or Scientist Training Program (STP).
As a human genetics and molecular course leader, I regularly engage with former students and employers who share with me that the skills and professional qualities discussed in this article not only enable graduates to stand out from other candidates when applying but it also results in a very accelerated work. development immediately after employment. Choosing to study human and molecular genetics builds on the foundational knowledge developed during your undergraduate studies and is an important step towards an exciting and rewarding career that will have a significant impact on society.
The author is the Course Director of the MSc Human and Molecular Genetics at the University of Sheffield, UK
Published on: Monday, June 24, 2024, 07:38 AM IST
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