The specializations and capabilities of biotechnologists are very diverse. Following the acquisition of basic skills during academic studies, specialized knowledge can be obtained in the fields of chemistry and bioreactors, immunochemistry, enzyme technology, bioprocess technology, pharmaceuticals, ecology of microorganisms, technical biochemistry, genetics, disease and treatment of organs, clinical testing of drugs, cell culture technology, and legal foundations of biotechnology.
Another domain of biotechnologists is quality assurance and quality management. The Fraunhofer IZI is equipped with a modern GMP manufacturing facility where projects in the field of drug manufacture and quality control can be realized in accordance with the quality standards of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
In particular, these tasks comprise maintenance and further development of existing quality management systems in accordance with the European GMP guidelines for medical products and the coordination of validation and qualification work. Further tasks include the handling of projects around the GMP-compliant manufacture and quality control of cell therapeutics and the design of manufacturing processes and quality controls. Preparing required documentations, writing standard operating procedures (SOPs), as well as practical laboratory work is also part of the job.
As a biotechnologist you work in a team together with the head of unit and the technical assistants who support the practical routine work in the laboratory. The position offers a mix of technical and biological contents, combined with practical work in the laboratory. However, it should not be forgotten that the position is associated with very high demands on documentation. Therefore, you should have excellent organizational skills and a high degree of reliability and accuracy.
Professional training
Biotechnology can be studied in colleges and universities. The study course can be chosen as an independent branch of study or as a specialization within agriculture, biology, chemical engineering and other courses.