Skills Developed through a Biotechnology Degree

A background in Biotechnology ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges.

Core Skills

• Sound understanding of fundamental concepts of physics, biological processes and mathematical principles and applied theory
• Exposure to the ethical and legal questions raised by biotechnological advancements and the modification of biological organisms or processes in the quest of better living standards
• The ability to solve problems and carry out experiments using the scientific method
• Extensive laboratory exposure and familiarity with techniques and procedures in laboratory settings

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

• The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written statements and written opinion pieces
• Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
• The ability to organize, understand and analyze sources of information and to apply novel forms of technology or new information to different professional settings and tasks
• The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas
• The skills to collect various types of information, assess them, analyze and incorporate potential linkages from different fields, put them into writing and efficiently convey your message and the goal of your work

Management and Teamwork

• The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project's intended end result
• Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
• The ability to debate, persuade, mediate and present your thoughts and opinions to others, as well as the capacity to recognize and incorporate other potential solutions or applications to given problems
• The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field.

• Student Biotechnology Network
• Society for Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology
• Biotechnology Industry Organization
• National Center for Biotechnology Information
• York University Biotechnology website