Geneticist Job Description

Scientific research is changing rapidly and the study of genetics is specialized in advanced concepts such as DNA sequencing and healthcare innovation. Although deciphering DNA is a daunting task, it is essential for geneticists and there is a never ending career prospects in medicine, agriculture, forensics and many other branches. 

If you are interested in pursuing genetics or just want to gain insight into the profession of a researcher, this guide on geneticists is written specifically for you. 

You will learn specific tasks performed on a daily basis, required skills, educational background, and possible job prospects all for the Geneticist Job profession.

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What Duties Do Geneticists Undertake?

This branch of biology  assigns the responsibility of researching genes, heredity and organisms to the geneticist. A geneticist documents traits that are passed over from previous generations and the result of individual level or entire population changes due to genetic alterations. 

With such versatility, a specialist can be employed in various fields such as medicine, agriculture, biotechnology, criminology, to mention a few. A geneticist works on the treatment of uncommon diseases or modification of certain crops, and their work is appreciated globally.

Key Responsibilities of Geneticists

A geneticist has a unique blend of responsibilities to attend to and that depends on their sub specialization. 

Here is what they are prone to cope with in their line of work:

• Performing Genetic Research: Under this role, a geneticist engages in laboratory work related to the analysis of DNA, RNA, and proteins. This covers, but is not limited to, genome sequencing, genetic marker identification, and gene function analysis.
• Interpreting Genetic Data: A geneticist also uses proprietary software and tools to analyze and extract important information from data files. This is most important for identifying mutations that lead to diseases or traits that can be passed down generations.
• Novel Treatment Development: Geneticists in medicine work in developing therapies based on the precise manipulation of genes and/or responsible chromosomes for a given disease. Gene therapy techniques are used on cancer patients, as well as patients with sickle cell disease and cystic fibrosis.
• Direct Patient Consultations: Clinical geneticists may see patients and their families directly, where they provide genetic counseling and estimate the chances of a child developing a hereditary condition.
• Modifying Farming Techniques: Geneticists who work in agriculture has a different scope of practice that includes, however, is not limited to intensive breeding and genetic engineering of plants to develop a variety of them that can resist pests and harsh weather conditions.
• Drafting Documents: The work of geneticists doesn’t end in the laboratory because they also compile their findings in writing and submit them to scientific journals, conferences, or stakeholders.

Key Skills of Geneticists

• Scientific Expertise. It’s critical to have reasonable knowledge of molecular biology, population genetics, and laboratory techniques.
• Technical Proficiency. Geneticists should be proficient in using DNA sequencers, PCR machines, and various bioinformatics programs.
• Analytical Thinking. Fresh approaches to data analysis and interpretation is essential.
• Communication Skills. Geneticists’ works must be published; they should also speak at conferences and explain their findings to the general public, which requires both communication and writing skills.
• Problem-Solving Mindset. Imaginative thinking is needed for diagnosing a rare genetic disease or for devising a method for cultivating crops resistant to drought.

What Licenses and/or Certifications Geneticists Need?

A physician’s license is needed for a medical or clinical geneticist because he or she is trained to perform diagnosis and treatment of genetic disorders. To obtain a certificate from the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomes (ABMGG), a clinical residency program and laboratory fellowship must be completed. 

The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) is another certifying board that deals with medical certification and maintenance of competence.

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Where Can a Geneticist Work? 

The workplace of a geneticist varies depending on what his/her specialty is, but they can often be found working in the following settings: 

• Research Laboratories or Educational Institutions (e.g. carrying out research activities and lecturing students theory or courses on genetics)
• Healthcare. Clinical geneticists often work in hospitals or private clinics, diagnosing genetic conditions and advising patients.  
• Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals. Many geneticists work in biotech companies developing gene-editing tools, genetic therapies, or personalized medicines.  
• Agriculture. Geneticists in agriculture focus on creating hardier and more productive crops or livestock. This includes working for companies specializing in GMOs like Monsanto or Syngenta.  
• Forensics. DNA analysts, a specialized class of geneticists, work in crime labs to help solve criminal cases through genetic evidence. 

How Much Is the Salary of a Geneticist?

Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average yearly salary of biologists, which includes geneticists, in 2020 was $89,910. Most geneticists work within the broader specialty areas of medicine, law enforcement, and agriculture. 

Many work in the pharmaceutical industry researching and treating genetic disorders, and agricultural geneticists work on developing new crop varieties. 

Geneticists can also work as laboratory detectives solving crimes through DNA analysis.

Data from healthcareers.nhs.uk suggests that new clinical geneticists starting with the NHS earn a salary of about £29,384. After completing your training, you can expect to make more, and if you progress to consultant level, you may earn around £85,000.

A rough estimate based on my website research suggests that outside the NHS, starting pay for academic positions is around £30,000, which is higher than in the manufacturing and pharmaceutical industry.

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Final Remarks on Geneticist Job Description

Those drawn to DNA along with the interest in solving scientific biological problems may choose to follow a career of a geneticist. 

Whether it’s finding new ways of treating people, enhancing food production, or teaching about the wonders of genetics, this branch of science has countless possibilities.

Geneticists help us understand the role of genetics in medicine and technology. Having a career in genetics allows one to work towards developing advanced therapies and treatments and improving human well-being.