BioScience Career Pathways
Table of Contents
Bioengineering:
Bioengineering is an emerging field focused on solving real-world medical and biological challenges by designing equipment, developing software/systems, and producing health products from living cells to improve human health.
Microbiology:
Microbiologists study micro-organisms such as bacteria, viruses, algae, or fungi. Microbiologists work in a variety of contexts, including food production, environmental science, medicine, and laboratory research.
BioScience combines high-tech and biology to create organic creations like sustainable farming techniques, vaccines, and clinical research to protect against deadly diseases.
Visit our BioScience education/training page to see a comprehensive list of Montana BioScience training programs.
Bioengineering
In-demand Specialties:
Agricultural Engineering
Bioinformatics
Bionics
Regenerative Medicine
Education:
Bioengineering jobs typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in bioengineering, biomedical engineering, or a related science or engineering field. Graduate degrees (M.S., Ph.D.) are often necessary for research or leadership roles.
High-Growth Jobs:
Emerging high-growth roles in the broad field of bioengineering include bioengineer, bioinformatics scientist, biomanufacturing technician, and clinical data manager. Read on to learn more about these rapidly growing careers.
Suggested Montana Careers
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Median MT Salary: $60,000 - $80,000
Growth Rate: 8% (nationally)
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Median MT Salary: $85,000 - $115,000
Growth Rate: 7% (nationally)
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Median MT Salary: $99,000
Growth Rate: 31% (nationally)
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Median MT Salary: $105,000
Growth Rate: 6% (nationally)
Core Skills
Technical Skills
Analytical or scientific software like BD Biosciences CellQuest or Laboratory information management system (LIMS)
Database user interface and query software like Microsoft Access and SQL
Knowledge of basic biology, chemistry, and physics
Programming languages like Bash C/C++, Java, Pearl, and Python
Project management software like Microsoft Project or Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management
Spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel
Strong math skills
Writing documentation
Soft Skills
Analytical
Communication
Critical thinking
Detail-oriented
Organization
Perseverance
Problem-solving
Teamwork
Time management
In-demand Specialties:
Virology
Education:
Microbiologists need at least a bachelor’s degree in microbiology or similar field. Certification and higher education can lead to greater responsibility. Ph.D. microbiologists usually lead research teams and control the direction of projects.
High-Growth Jobs:
Emerging high-growth roles in microbiology include environmental scientists and specialists and microbiologist. Read on to learn more about these rapidly growing careers.
Microbiology
Suggested Montana Careers
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Median MT Salary: $78,500
MT Growth Rate: 17%
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Median MT Salary: $84,000
MT Growth Rate: 14%
Core Skills
Technical Skills
Analytical or scientific software like BD Biosciences CellQuest or Laboratory information management system (LIMS)
Database user interface and query software like Microsoft Access and SQL
Familiarity with lab equipment and quality assurance/quality control clean room procedures
Knowledge of basic biology and chemistry
Project management software like Microsoft Project or Oracle Primavera Enterprise Project Portfolio Management
Spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel
Strong math skills
Writing documentation
Soft Skills
Analytical
Communication
Curiosity
Detail-oriented
Organization
Perseverance
Problem-solving
Teamwork
Time management
Do you have a helpful resource you’d like to suggest we add to this guide? Do you have information you are searching for, or other feedback? The Montana High Tech Business Alliance would love to hear from you. Please reach out to us at communications[at]mthightech.org.