Best Biotechnology Careers 2023: Courses, Jobs, Colleges & Eligibility
- Himank Koundal
- Updated Date: September 17, 2023
Table of Contents
Biotechnology is a field of science which involves application of biological process, organisms, or systems to make new products and technologies.
Its widespread application across multiple industries like food, pharmaceutical, chemical, bio-products, textiles, medicine, nutrition, environmental conservation and animal sciences makes a biotechnology career as one of the fastest growing fields with ample opportunities for qualified professionals.
Biotechnology combines the theoretical (genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, embryology and cell biology), and the practical (chemical engineering, information technology and robotics) scientific aptitude, a keen interest in the biological sciences, and problem solving skills. An analytical mind is essential for a successful career in biotechnology.
The candidate should be methodical and patient by nature, able to work neatly and accurately and have a flair for laboratory work. The ability to work independently is another important aspect. The knowledge of computers is a must.
Biotechnology Career Eligibility Criteria
Biotechnology careers encompass a wide range of disciplines and offer diverse opportunities for individuals passionate about making a difference in the world through scientific innovation. To ensure a successful path in this dynamic industry, aspiring professionals must meet specific requirements that qualify them for various roles. By understanding the eligibility criteria associated with biotechnology careers, you can strategically navigate your educational and professional journey to unlock the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
So, let’s delve into the key eligibility criteria for embarking on this transformative professional path and explore the qualifications needed to thrive in the realm of biotechnology career.
| Course | Duration | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
|
Diploma in Biotechnology |
3 Years |
10+2 Passed |
|
BSc in Biotechnology |
3 Years |
Passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology |
|
BTech in Biotechnology |
4 Years |
Candidates should have passed 12th with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Biology as compulsory subjects |
|
MTech in Biotechnology |
2 Years |
Must hold graduation degree in either Physics, Biological Sciences, Biotechnology or in any other related discipline |
|
MSc in Biotechnology |
2 Years |
Should have B.Sc degree in relevant discipline |
|
PhD in Biotechnology |
3 Years |
Candidates should have completed relevant Master or PG programme |
10 + 2 science stream graduates can opt for a B.Tech (Biotechnology) or an integrated M. Tech (Biotechnology); science stream graduates from any field (engineering, medicine etc.) can opt for a M. Tech (Biotechnology).
IIT Delhi and Kharagpur offer admission into a five year integrated M.Tech through a Joint Entrance Examination.
The Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi conducts an all-India entrance examination for their Msc Biotechnology program.
Any candidate with an undergraduate degree from a 10+2+3 system with at least 55% marks in:
- Physical, Biological, Agricultural, Veterinary & Fishery Sciences,
- Pharmacy,
- Engineering,
- Technology,
- 4-Years BS (Physician Assistant Course);
- OR Medicine (MBBS) OR BDS
Is eligible to apply for the JNU Msc(Biotechnology) as well as others.
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) also offers postgraduate courses in selected institutions, and through four prominent research institutes, further provides a two-year support for post doctoral programs; the objective is to prepare long term biotech professionals and scientists for frontier research and advance research methodologies.
Two other institutes, backed by the DBT, provide a one-year MD/MS training in medical biotech. The cover fields such as:
- vaccines,
- therapeutic hormones and enzymes,
- immuno-diagnostics,
- gene therapyÂ
SRM University offers B.Tech in Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, and Bioinformatics. They also offer an M.Tech in Biotechnology and Biomedical Engineering.
Affordable and intelligent R&D partnering with Chinese and American corporate bodies has great scope in mining India’s biotech potential and co-developing tech; India has a global market worth a $91 billion. That’s why so many global pharma companies are flocking to India for their own R&D initiatives.
Career and Job prospects in Biotechnology
Top biotechnology career in India for students according to their interests and what they want to do in their future.
- Medical Scientists
- Biomedical Engineers
- Microbiologists
- Biological Technicians
- Medical and Clinical Lab Technicians
- Biophysicists
- Microbiologists
- Epidemiologists
- Biomanufacturing Specialists
- Product Strategist
- Biopharma Sales Representative
- Medical Scientist
- Biotechnological Technician
- Epidemiologist
- Microbiologist
- Medical and Clinical Lab Technologist
- Biomanufacturing Specialist
- Bioproduction Specialist
While government institutes and organizations, such as Department of Biotechnology (DBT), several agriculture, dairy and horticulture institutes may offer biotechnology job opportunities in india and one can expect the best salary in private sector.
Drug companies in biotechnology like Dabur, Ranbaxy, Hindustan Lever and Dr Reddy’s Labs that have their R & D units offer Biotechnology professionals with handsome pay-packages. There are also ample biotechnology opportunities in India for food processing industry, chemical industry and the textile industry.
Some industries employ bio-technologists in their marketing divisions to develop business in sectors where their products would be required.
The major companies, hiring bio-technologists, include Hindustan Lever, Thapar Group, Indo American Hybrid Seeds, Bincon India Ltd., IDPL and Hindustan Antibiotics.
A career in biotechnology in india can be both challenging and rewarding. If you are interested in a biotechnology career in this field, I encourage you to learn more about the opportunities available and to take the necessary steps to prepare.
Most In Demand Biotechnology Course Jobs In India
Biotechnology course scope is a rapidly growing field with a wide range of job opportunities listed below:
- Research Scientist:Â Research scientists work in laboratories to conduct research on new biotechnology products and processes. They may work in academia, government, or the private sector.
- Bioinformatician:Â Bioinformatics is the application of computer science and information technology to biological data. Bioinformatics scientists work to develop and apply software tools to analyze biological data.
- Clinical Research Associate:Â Clinical research associates work in clinical trials to oversee the conduct of research studies. They may work for pharmaceutical companies, medical device companies, or contract research organizations.
- Biomedical Engineer:Â Biomedical engineers design, develop, and test medical devices and equipment. They may work in hospitals, research institutions, or the private sector.
- Microbiologist:Â Microbiologists study microorganisms and their role in human health and disease. They may work in research laboratories, hospitals, or the food and beverage industry.
- Laboratory Technician:Â Laboratory technicians perform routine laboratory tasks, such as preparing samples, running tests, and maintaining equipment. They may work in research laboratories, hospitals, or the food and beverage industry.
- Quality Control Analyst:Â Quality control analysts ensure that biotechnology products meet quality standards. They may work in pharmaceutical companies, medical device companies, or contract research organizations.
- Regulatory Affairs Manager:Â Regulatory affairs managers ensure that biotechnology products comply with government regulations. They may work for pharmaceutical companies, medical device companies, or contract research organizations.
- Business Development Manager:Â Business development managers identify and develop new business opportunities for biotechnology companies. They may work in the pharmaceutical, agricultural, or environmental sectors.
Biotechnology Course Salary
The salary for a biotechnology course graduate can vary depending on the level of education, the industry, and the location. However, the average salary for a biotechnology graduate in India is around INR 4.9 lakh per annum. At the entry level, a Biotechnology salary in india of a graduate draws around Rs 4 lakh per annum. After 4 years, the salary package is likely to be around Rs 5 lakh.
Here are some of the highest-paying jobs in biotechnology in India:
- Process engineer: INR 8-12 lakh per annum
- Medical technologist: INR 5-8 lakh per annum
- Regulatory affairs manager: INR 6-10 lakh per annum
- Business development director: INR 8-12 lakh per annum
- Biostatistician: INR 6-10 lakh per annum
- Software engineer: INR 5-8 lakh per annum
- Pharmacist: INR 6-10 lakh per annum
- Chief medical officer: INR 12-15 lakh per annum
The lowest salary for a biotechnology graduate in India is around INR 0.2 lakh per year. This is typically for entry-level positions in the public sector.
The biotechnology industry is growing rapidly, and the demand for skilled biotechnologists is high. As a result, the salary for biotechnology graduates is expected to continue to rise in the coming years.
Biotechnology Careers List And Salaries
The Government of India provides large-scale employment to most bio-technologists in its research laboratories. Those employed as researchers in government sector can have a starting salary of Rs. 9000 per month along with government perks/allowances.
Private sector pharmaceutical companies generally offer salary between Rs. 12,000- Rs. 20,000 per month to an entry-level postgraduate. A skilled and experienced bio-technologist can get salaries far beyond his expectations.
Here’s the list of careers in biotechnology in india :
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Scope of Biotechnology in India 2023
Biotechnology is a rapidly growing field, and the biotechnology scope in India is enormous. India has become one of the world’s leading destinations for biotechnology research and development, with a large number of companies and institutions involved in the sector.
The scope in biotechnology in India is expected to grow at a rate of 15% per year over the next five years, creating many new job opportunities for biotechnology graduates.
India has a vast pool of skilled and knowledgeable scientists, with strong expertise in biotechnology. The country is also home to a large number of research institutions, including the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
The biotechnology sector in India covers a wide range of areas, including agriculture, healthcare, environmental science, and industrial biotechnology. The country has been focusing on developing biotechnology products that are affordable, accessible, and can benefit the masses. Some of the notable achievements in biotechnology in India include developing vaccines for polio, hepatitis B, and human papillomavirus, and introducing genetically modified crops.
In recent years, the Indian government has also taken various initiatives to promote biotechnology research and development. These initiatives include the establishment of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) and the setting up of several biotechnology parks and incubators across the country.
How To Become Biotechnologist In India?
Biotechnology career opportunities in India have been rapidly growing, making it an exciting and promising path to pursue. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to become a biotechnologist in India, providing you with valuable insights and a comprehensive list of key points to consider as you embark on your journey towards a rewarding biotechnology career. So, let’s dive in and explore the realm of biotechnology career, where science, innovation, and endless possibilities converge.
Here are the steps on how to become a biotechnologist in India:
-
Complete your 12th grade with biology as a compulsory subject. You can also take physics and chemistry as additional subjects.
-
Pursue a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology. There are many colleges and universities in India that offer this degree. Some of the top colleges include:
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi
- National Institute of Biotechnology Education and Research (NITER)
- Jamia Hamdard University
-
Gain relevant experience. Internships and research projects are a great way to gain experience and make connections in the industry. You can also look for entry-level jobs in biotechnology companies.
-
Pursue a master’s degree in biotechnology. This will give you a deeper understanding of the field and make you more marketable to employers. Some of the top universities for master’s in biotechnology in India include:
- Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore
- University of Delhi
- University of Mumbai
- Anna University Chennai
- Jadavpur University Kolkata
-
Pursue a Ph.D. in biotechnology. This is the highest level of education in biotechnology, and it will give you the skills and knowledge to conduct independent research. Some of the top universities for Ph.D. in biotechnology in India include:
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay
- Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore
- National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS)
- Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR)
Once you have completed your education and gained some experience, you will be ready to start a biotechnology career. There are many different biotechnology career paths, such as:
- Research scientist
- Product developer
- Quality control specialist
- Regulatory affairs specialist
- Business development manager
- Biotech entrepreneur
Job Opportunities For Biotechnology Graduates In India
The biotechnology industry in India is growing rapidly, and there are many job opportunities available for biotechnology graduates. Some of the most in-demand jobs include:
- Research Scientist:Â Research scientists work in laboratories to conduct research on new biotechnology products and processes. They may work in academia, government, or the private sector.
- Bioinformatician:Â Bioinformatics is the application of computer science and information technology to biological data. Bioinformatics scientists work to develop and apply software tools to analyze biological data.
- Clinical Research Associate:Â Clinical research associates work in clinical trials to oversee the conduct of research studies. They may work for pharmaceutical companies, medical device companies, or contract research organizations.
- Biomedical Engineer:Â Biomedical engineers design, develop, and test medical devices and equipment. They may work in hospitals, research institutions, or the private sector.
- Microbiologist:Â Microbiologists study microorganisms and their role in human health and disease. They may work in research laboratories, hospitals, or the food and beverage industry.
These are just a few of the many job opportunities available for biotechnology graduates in India. The specific job opportunities in biotechnology in india will vary depending on your skills and interests. However, with a degree in biotechnology, you will have a wide range of biotechnology career options to choose from.
Here are some of the top sectors that offer job opportunities for biotechnology graduates in India:
- Pharmaceutical:Â The pharmaceutical industry is one of the largest employers of biotechnology graduates in India. Biotechnology graduates can find jobs in research and development, manufacturing, and quality control.
- Agriculture:Â The agriculture sector is another major employer of biotechnology graduates in India. Biotechnology graduates can find jobs in crop research, animal husbandry, and food processing.
- Environmental:Â The environmental sector is also a growing employer of biotechnology graduates in India. Biotechnology graduates can find jobs in pollution control, waste management, and water treatment.
- Healthcare: The healthcare sector is also a major employer of biotechnology graduates in India. Biotechnology graduates can find jobs in clinical research, medical diagnostics, and drug discovery.
Biotechnology Placements In India
According to a report by the National Association of Biotechnology Companies (NABC), the average salary for a biotechnologist in India is around Rs. 4.9 lakh per annum. At the entry level, a Biotechnology graduate can expect to earn around Rs. 4 lakh per annum. After 4 years of experience, the salary package is likely to be around Rs. 5 lakh.
Some of the top companies that hire biotechnologists in India include:
- Dr. Reddy’s
- Cipla
- Ranbaxy
- Biocon
- Bharat Biotech
- Indian Immunologicals
- Serum Institute of India Ltd
- ITC
- Hindustan Unilever
- Accenture
Top 20 Colleges and Universities for Biotechnology in India 2023
Here is a list of some of the top colleges and universities in India for biotechnology courses:
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi | Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani |
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi | University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad |
University of Delhi, New Delhi | Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi |
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur | Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Bombay |
National Institute of Technology (NIT), Warangal | National Institute of Immunology (NII), New Delhi |
University of Pune, Pune | Christ University, Bangalore |
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune | Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore |
Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai | SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai |
Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), Kochi | Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar |
Amity University, Noida | Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal |
Institutes Offering M.Sc Biotechnology
These esteemed institutions provide an excellent platform for aspiring individuals to delve into the captivating world of biotechnology careers. Whether you are fascinated by genetic engineering, molecular biology, or biomedical research, these programs will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in your biotechnology career. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this comprehensive compilation of institutes offering M.Sc Biotechnology programs that will pave the way for your bright biotechnology career.
- University of Allahabad, Allahabad
- Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu
- Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
- Calicut University, Kerala
- Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, lndore
- Goa University, Goa
- Gulbarga University, Gulbarga
- Guru Jambheshwar University, Hisar
- Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar
- Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla
- University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
- University of Jammu, Jammu
- Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
- Kumaun University, Nainital
- University of Lucknow, Lucknow
- MS University of Baroda, Vadodara
- Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai
- University of Mysore, Mysore
- University of North Bengal, Siliguri
- Pondicherry University, Pondicherry
- University of Pune, Pune
- Punjabi University, Patiala
- R.T.M. Nagpur University, Nagpur
- Sardar Patel University, Gujarat
- Tezpur University, Tezpur (Assam)
- Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Patiala
- Utkal University, Bhubaneswar
- Visva-Bharati University, Sanliniketan
Â
Institutes Offering B.Tech/M.Tech/PhD
Courses Offered:Â B.Tech., M.Tech. in Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, M.S. (Research) in Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology and Pre Ph.D. Courses
Courses Offered : M.Sc and M.Tech degree in Animal Biotechnology
Courses Offered : B.Tech.(H) in Biotechnology and Biochemical Engineering, B.Tech.(H) and M.Tech. in Biotechnology and Biochemical Engineering, MS (Biotechnology), M.Tech. – Biotechnology and Biochemical Engineering, Ph.D. (Biotechnology)
Courses Offered : M BiotechÂ
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology
Amity Noida Campus, Sector – 44
Noida – 201303 (U.P.)
Phone : 1800-11-00-00 (Toll-Free)
Courses Offered : B.Tech in Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering, and Bioinformatics. M.Tech in Biotechnology and Biomedical Engineering
Best Universities for Biotechnology Abroad
Harvard University, USA | University of California, Berkeley (UCB), USA |
Stanford University, USA | California Institute of Technology (Caltech), USA |
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA | Imperial College London, UK |
University of Cambridge, UK | University of Toronto, Canada |
University of Oxford, UK | ETH Zurich – Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, Switzerland |
University of Melbourne, Australia | Technical University of Munich, Germany |
National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore | University of Zurich, Switzerland |
University of Tokyo, Japan | Johns Hopkins University, USA |
Karolinska Institute, Sweden | University of Pennsylvania, USA |
University of Copenhagen, Denmark | University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), USA |
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FAQ
Biotechnology can be a good career option for individuals who have an interest in science and a desire to contribute to the development of new technologies and products that can improve human health and the environment.
The field of biotechnology is constantly evolving and offers a wide range of career opportunities in areas such as research and development, manufacturing, quality control, regulatory affairs, sales and marketing, and more.
Biotechnology can offer high-paying jobs, but it depends on several factors such as the specific job, location, level of education and experience, and the industry sector.
Jobs in biotechnology can range from research and development to sales and marketing, and salaries can vary widely depending on the level of responsibility and expertise required. For example, research scientists and engineers with advanced degrees and several years of experience can earn a high salary, whereas entry-level technicians may earn a lower salary.
The scope for biotechnology for startups has quietly exploded from a paltry 52 in 2014 to a mammoth 5300 plus in 2022. It may surprise people to know that India is the third-largest destination for biotechnology in Asia and one of the top 12 destinations for biotechnology worldwide.
Some of the best biotechnology careers options in India are listed below.
- Biomedical Engineer
- Biochemist
- Medical Scientist
- Clinical Technician
- Microbiologist
- Process Development Scientist
- Biomanufacturing Specialist
- Business Development Manager
- Product Strategist
- Biopharma Sales Representative
- Medical Scientist
- Biotechnological Technician
- Epidemiologist
- Microbiologist
- Medical and Clinical Lab Technologist
- Biomanufacturing Specialist
- Bioproduction Specialist
- R&D Scientist
The biotechnology course scope is quite vast. With a broad range of courses, you get huge opportunities to grow professionally. Moreover, keeping yourself updated with essential knowledge and skills can boost up your career to new levels. The degree obtained from the best college for B.
The minimum educational requirement for a career in biotechnology in India is a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology. However, many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree or a PhD in biotechnology.
The market of jobs after biotechnology in India is expanding rapidly. With the growth of the biotechnology industry and government initiatives promoting research and innovation the career opportunities for biotechnology graduates is in demand for skilled professionals in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, healthcare, and environmental sciences.
Here are some of the most in-demand biotechnology jobs:
- Research Scientist:Â Research scientists work in laboratories to conduct research on new biotechnology products and processes. They may work in academia, government, or the private sector.
- Bioinformatician:Â Bioinformatics is the application of computer science and information technology to biological data. Bioinformatics scientists work to develop and apply software tools to analyze biological data.
- Clinical Research Associate:Â Clinical research associates work in clinical trials to oversee the conduct of research studies. They may work for pharmaceutical companies, medical device companies, or contract research organizations.
- Biomedical Engineer:Â Biomedical engineers design, develop, and test medical devices and equipment. They may work in hospitals, research institutions, or the private sector.
- MBBS:Â This is the highest-paying course for BiPC students. The average salary for an MBBS doctor in India is around Rs. 6 lakh per annum.
- BDS:Â This is another high-paying course for BiPC students. The average salary for a BDS doctor in India is around Rs. 5 lakh per annum.
- B.Tech. Biotechnology:Â This is a rapidly growing field with high demand for skilled professionals. The average salary for a B.Tech. Biotechnology graduate in India is around Rs. 4 lakh per annum.
- B.Pharm:Â This is another high-paying course for BiPC students. The average salary for a B.Pharm graduate in India is around Rs. 3.5 lakh per annum.
- B.Sc. Nursing:Â This is a good career option for BiPC students who want to work in the healthcare sector. The average salary for a B.Sc. Nursing graduate in India is around Rs. 3 lakh per annum.
- B.Sc. (Forensic Science):Â This is a relatively new field, but it is growing rapidly. The average salary for a B.Sc. (Forensic Science) graduate in India is around Rs. 3 lakh per annum.
A degree in Biotechnology can open up a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as medicine, agriculture, and food production. With this degree, you could work as a scientist, researcher, or entrepreneur, using your knowledge of biology and technology to make a positive impact on the world.
| Positions | Salary |
|---|---|
| Biochemist | INR. 5.5-6 lakh pa |
| Epidemiologist | INR. 5-6 lakh pa |
| Lab technician | INR. 3-4 lakh pa |
| Research scientist | INR. 5.5-6 lakh pa |
- Clinical technician
- Chemical operator
- Biomedical equipment technician
- Microbiologist
- DNA analyst
- Business development manager
- Pharmaceutical manufacturer
- Scientist
- Biomedical engineer
- Process engineer
The average salary for a biotechnologist in India is ₹493,163 per year. However, the salary range can vary depending on the job title, experience, and location. For example, a senior research scientist in a leading biotechnology company in Mumbai can earn up to ₹1,800,000 per year.nt
The number of biotech startups has quietly exploded from a paltry 52 in 2014 to a mammoth 5300 plus in 2022. It may surprise people to know that India is the third-largest destination for biotechnology in Asia and one of the top 12 destinations for biotechnology worldwide.
Medical, environmental, marine, and industrial biotechnology may be the major types of biotechnology research and development, but there are other areas of application, as well.
Article Updates:
16/07/2023: General Update
16/07/2023: Interlinking
16/07/2023: FAQS Update
16/07/2023: Infographic Update
