About
- Biochemistry, microbiology, and immunology examine the processes regulating DNA, RNA, and proteins within cells and the world of viruses, and bacteria and how infections occur and are combatted by the immune system. Mutations, metabolic disorders, cancer, and the determination of protein structure are of particular importance to humans in how we advance modern medicine. Studies of the immune system and microbial processes allow the development of protective solutions such as antibiotics and vaccines.
Careers
Research: A variety of technical positions are available in academia (e.g. universities), industry (e.g. biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies), government laboratories (e.g. agricultural and food agencies and police forensic laboratories), and healthcare systems (e.g. hospitals).
Teaching: Biochemists, microbiologists, and immunologists are involved in teaching at high schools, universities, and technical colleges.
Communications: Some biochemists, microbiologists, and immunologists work as science writers for textbooks and prepare technical reports for the industry.
Business: Biochemists, microbiologists, and immunologists play an important role in the management, sales, and marketing of science-based companies, such as pharmaceutical firms.
Regulatory/Law: Many biochemists, microbiologists, and immunologists are employed by regulatory bodies such as the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, and the Food and Drug Administration, to develop government policies and patent laws.