How to become a Genetic Engineer

Genetic engineers are highly trained professionals who manipulate the genetic makeup of an organism to improve the organism's physical capabilities, be it plants, animals, or humans. These engineers use a variety of molecular technologies and tools to rearrange, remove or add fragments of DNA with the intention to enhance the organism or for research purposes. Through genetic engineering, a gene can be removed from an organism and inserted into another to give it the qualities of the donor gene. Moreover, genetic engineering can enable an organism to better thrive in a specific environment, such as adapting a bacteria to improve drug treatment or modifying a plant to withstand harsh conditions.

Genetic engineering is a rather broad field that allows aspirants to take on specialised roles such as breast cancer researchers, forensic scientists, molecular biologists, genetic counsellors, etc. Due to the nature of the work, genetic engineers are mostly found working in laboratories and research centres. Major employers of genetic engineers are pharmaceutical companies, universities, hospitals, agriculture, research and development firms, government agencies and healthcare organisations.

The role of a genetic engineer is multifaceted and generally comprises of the following tasks:

• Examine current DNA structures of organisms
• Design and carry out various experiments
• Prepare reports of the experiments 
• Handle tools like lasers, spectrometers, binocular light compound microscopes, etc
• Modify the DNA structure of organisms 
• Write and publish journalistic papers related to genetic engineering 
• Devise solutions to handle harmful organisms
• Treat human patients with genetic illnesses

Genetic engineers must have specific interpersonal skills and attributes to thrive in this industry. In addition, it is imperative that genetic engineers have solid morals and use their abilities for the greater good as this branch of science is controversial, and many are against it. Genetic engineer jobs require an eye for detail, precision, innovation and dexterous application of logical concepts, and thus, aspirants must exhibit these traits to at least some extent. Furthermore, applicants must have excellent decision-making ability, a strong intellect, excellent communication skills, an analytical mind, and problem-solving talents.