Question about Forum

[Bill Estes]

Are you taking questions about non-science careers for scientists as well? Or, as the name implies, are you only taking questions about science careers?

Bill

[Dave Jensen]

Bill,

We are prepared here for all kinds of questions, about any sort of "science career" or "alternative career" that a technically trained person would consider. Have at it!

PS - Also, any level of degree . . . This isn't a PhD only site. The site advisors and moderator all have experience working with a variety of career types and levels of educational qualifications.

Dave Jensen, Moderator

[Bill Estes]

Great . . .

I've heard that there are many manufacturing jobs coming up in the near future in biotech, since so many companies have moved into product development now. Are there PhD level jobs also -- or, aren't those just BS level jobs? In other words, is there any truly challenging work or is it just routine.

If so, what kinds of backgrounds do they look for?

B.E.

[Dave Jensen]

Bill,

Many companies are gearing up for manufacturing and it is a major job category. For PhD's, this means that certain kinds of scientists (fermentation microbiologists, cell biologists, biochemical engineers, analytical biochemists, etc) will be needed for core manufacturing facilities.

PhD's are often found running the show in manufacturing, but they often start in jobs like Quality Control/Assurance or Assay Development, Tech Services, etc. By sheer numbers, there are more BS level positions, because these folks are operating the equipment. Even community colleges are gearing up to support certain hiring trends in manufacturing.

However, don't be concerned if you still like the bench. There are about 800 companies in the Northern CA area, and only 100 of them see a need for manufacturing staff in the short term (the next couple of years). So -- that means a lot of firms are still in the search for a product to manufacture.

Dave Jensen, Moderator