There are many professions of the future, among which the geneticist stands out for his special professional activity. Science and technology do not stand still, scientists have yet to make many discoveries. And today, people on themselves notice the benefits of their work. What does genetics study and why are the results of these scientists so important for our society?
Profession Features
What does genetics study? The subject of her research is not only a person, but also plants and animals. Depending on the subject being studied, genetics is divided into medical, environmental, molecular, genetic engineering and more. Each industry has its own characteristics.
What are professions related to human genetics? A scientist studying medical genetics considers the dependence of pathology on a genetic predisposition and environmental conditions. The direction is promising and contributes to the prevention and treatment of hereditary diseases. The main task of the scientist is to correctly establish the genetic nature of the disease and its possible manifestation in the future.
Geneticist conducts genetic counseling. He thoroughly analyzes the family tree of the patient, gives a prognosis and draws up a written opinion.
In the genetics clinic, studies are being conducted to establish kinship when planning pregnancy, which allows to identify the pathology of the unborn child. In this situation, at the risk of transmission of hereditary diseases, the gene that causes this pathology is determined. Then the most effective methods of prevention or therapy are developed.
Medical genetic research allows you to establish the identity of the offender when detecting his traces at the crime scene.
Another promising area is environmental genetics. She studies the interaction of chromosomes with the environment. Ecological genetics branches into several directions.
Mutation of genes can be caused by the following factors: radiation, chemicals, viruses or parasites. The study of mutations is a task of ecogenetics.
Where to get the profession of genetics
A person who has graduated from a university in an appropriate direction can become a geneticist.
Students who study at the biological faculties of the university, at medical universities, agricultural and veterinary educational institutions can get a profession.
At present, many higher educational institutions that train geneticists are represented in Russia. The most prestigious universities are known:
- The First Moscow State University named after I.M.Sechenov.
- St. Petersburg University.
- Novosibirsk State University.
- North-West State Medical University. I.I. Mechnikov.
However, specialist training does not end there. For the constant development of genetics, you need to go to various seminars and courses. You also need to constantly study a large amount of literature so that the knowledge gained is not out of date.
Where to work
The experience gained opens up many career opportunities for scientists. They can work in the following institutions:
- Research institutes of genetics, research centers and universities.
- Agricultural institutes.
- Pharmaceutical companies.
- Biomedical laboratories.
- Educational organizations.
- Bodies of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and prosecutors.
- The Center for Medical Genetics, an organization specializing in genetic analysis. Typically, such information can be used for medical purposes or to confirm kinship.
As in other professions, the career of genetics should be carried out in three areas: scientific, administrative and professional.
Scientific activity is closely related to obtaining scientific degrees and titles. This helps to increase the prestige of the scientific institution.
A professional career has similar features, but is carried out in a laboratory or in a medical organization. Career growth consists in career advancement.
Administrative activity consists in the departure of the geneticist from completing his professional occupations and turning him into a leader.
What are the requirements
The main requirements that apply to future genetics include:
- Higher medical education with a valid certificate in genetics.
- Ability to establish contacts with colleagues and patients.
- Knowledge of English at a level that allows you to read professional literature.
- Necessary experience in research and writing conclusions.
Of no small importance is the analytical mindset, punctuality and a tendency to study scientific literature.
Geneticist
The specialist diagnoses, provides medical care and prevents hereditary pathologies. He observes the pathologies caused by incest, and explores issues related to the birth of healthy children.
The most common profession related to human genetics is a geneticist. He also deals with the following issues:
- predicting the ability to have children with a particular couple;
- identifying a hereditary predisposition to a particular disease and the degree of its probable transmission from parents to children;
- calculation of the risk of gene mutations if one or both parents are carriers of the gene;
- therapy of babies born with gene pathology;
- establishment of paternity and motherhood.
In some cases, the geneticist participates in the commission on the decision to terminate the pregnancy, deals with various forms of infertility, stillbirth.
Geneticist is a profession that is quite in demand in modern medical practice. And cloning and stem cell transplantation make it even more promising.
How to move on the job
To get such a profession, you must:
- Graduate from the specialty "General Medicine" or "Pediatrics."
- Get an accreditation sheet with a diploma. Pass test items and exam, pass an interview.
- During the year to work in a clinic or outpatient clinic, and then study in residency. And after 2 years to get the specialty "Genetic."
There is another way. It is possible to obtain a higher biological education, and then specialization in genetics. Typically, these specialists carry out their activities in the field of science, but have no relation to practical medicine.
The growth of professionalism of a specialist, the level of knowledge and experience are reflected in the qualification category. They are assigned by the commission in the presence of the geneticist himself. It provides a written research paper that includes a description of skills and knowledge.
The following assignment dates are known:
- more than 3 years of experience - 2nd category;
- over 7 years - the first;
- more than 10 years - the highest.
The doctor may not qualify, but this will be a big minus for professional growth. Also, the professional growth of a specialist will be facilitated by writing candidate and doctoral dissertations, publications in scientific journals, and speaking at conferences and congresses.
Personal qualities of genetics
For people who choose the profession of genetics, an increased level of personal responsibility is of great importance. They always work on important scientific discoveries. And also conduct a lot of research, so any inaccuracies are unacceptable.
A geneticist must possess:
- ability to analyze;
- penchant for the natural sciences;
- attentiveness;
- purposefulness.
The profession of genetics is complex, so it is not suitable for people indifferent to science. Research and practical activities are needed for those specialists who have a high level of interest and developed thinking.
Another important factor here is the ability to process a huge amount of information and the ability to apply modern technology.
To succeed in the profession of genetics, you must be able to solve the following issues:
- Correctly set current tasks.
- Achieve your goals.
The profession of genetics requires perseverance and confidence in a person, the ability to listen to the opinions of their colleagues.
A modern geneticist is required not only to conduct research, but also to record the results in an appropriate form. This means that he must possess the art of speech and correctly present information.
Profession advantage
In Russia, as in other countries, the profession of genetics is in demand. Science is rapidly gaining momentum, because this is a promising direction. The role of genetics is huge, and the facets of its further development have not yet been determined.
In public and private institutions in various fields, there is a shortage of specialists in this field.
Disadvantages of the profession
Ongoing genetic research is hard work. A person is constantly experiencing great stress, work is almost round-the-clock and causes overwork. Ultimately, this leads to the development of various diseases.
A negative effect on the body is exerted by working with various reagents that are used in scientific research. Therefore, it is important to follow certain precautions. Otherwise, they can lead to negative consequences.
A minor genetic error can affect the lives of others. Therefore, genetics often encounter negative public opinion and strict state control. They also feel severe emotional pressure.
Beginning scientists have to work not for material gain, but to realize their own ambitions. This is not surprising, because it is difficult for a young specialist to get a well-paid position.
Genetics salary
The salary of scientists depends on the place of work and the region of the country. Employers of the Moscow and Leningrad Region are ready to offer the highest wages.
The minimum salary in the profession of genetics is 11,000 rubles, and the maximum is in the region of 200,000.
Conclusion
Geneticist is the profession of the future. People who apply for this position must have special education and a special character. Indeed, in the process of work, they will have to solve complex production problems.