What does a genetic engineer do?

Genetic engineering sounds fascinating, maybe even something I'd study in college! Could someone break down what genetic engineers typically work on and what educational path would be best if I'm interested in this field?

Genetic engineers work with living organisms' genetic material (DNA/RNA) to manipulate, modify, or combine genes. This can cover a wide range of applications, from agricultural improvements to medical treatments and disease prevention.

Some of the specific tasks that a genetic engineer can do include:

1. Developing and efficient methods for gene delivery into cells.

2. Use of CRISPR, a powerful tool for editing genomes, to alter genes for various applications.

3. Researching and developing genetic tests to identify or rule out a range of diseases.

4. Designing and creating transgenic organisms to produce pharmaceuticals or other beneficial substances.

As for the educational path you might take, it typically begins with a strong foundation in high school biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. Once you get to university, you could pursue a bachelor's degree in fields like Genetics, Molecular Biology, or Biochemistry. These fields offer a solid foundation in life sciences and will cover key concepts in genetic engineering.

Many genetic engineers also pursue further postgraduate education, such as obtaining a PhD or a Masters. This is often required for research-focused positions and allows individuals to specialize further within the field. For instance, someone may choose to focus on agricultural genetics, human genetic therapy, or microbial genetics.

Remember that real-world experience is equally important. This can include participation in research projects, laboratory internships, or other related experiences. This can expose you to the actual process of genetic manipulation and give you a strong advantage when you enter the job market.

If genetic engineering sounds exciting to you after all this, go for it! It's a rapidly evolving field that has the potential to make substantial contributions to many aspects of human life. It is a demanding field, but also ripe with potential rewards and advancements.