Biological sciences
Eugene Cloete
Biochemistry
The role of bio-molecules in all livings systems (fungi, parasites, bacteria, plants, animals, humans and insects) are studied in order to explain the life processes, for example photosynthesis, the physiological effect of hormones, the basis for growth and differentiation, metabolic control and structural and functional aspects of macro molecules or the cell. You can also examine the functions of vitamins and hormones, the functioning of the brain and nerves as well as the body’s defence mechanisms against infections, cancer and other diseases. If this interests you, you will be able to apply your knowledge to the fields of agriculture, veterinary sciences and medicine by for example determining the causes of diseases and developing preventative medicines.1
Biochemistry provides nearly unlimited opportunities for an exciting and challenging career in industries (for example fine chemicals, food, pharmaceutical and refuse processing firms), research councils (MRC, LNR, KANSA, ARC) and institutes, academic institutions, the CSIR as well as forensic and pathology laboratories.
Bio-informatics
Bio-informatics is applicable to Computer Science, Mathematical, Statistical and Information Technologies on biological data. Biological data in the form of protein or nucleic acid orders, complete genomes, macro molecular structures, expression levels, transcription levels or models or metabolic lanes are used. Bio-informatics can be applied on different levels, from pure application of biological data to programming and algorhythm development. Bio-informatics can be applied in agriculture, veterinary science, medicine and IT-related fields.
Bio-informatics provides career opportunities in applied sciences as well as research. It includes universities, research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnological companies and related industries.
Human physiology
In Human Physiology the workings of the human body is studied. This field of study is ideal if you are very interested in the human body, which is more complex than any machine or computer. In order to truly understand it, you must have knowledge of how all the millions of pieces that the body consists of function separately and together. Understanding and knowledge of the nature of the underlying molecules, cells, membranes and organs will be of no value if you don’t understand how these body parts work together in the total living being.
Research is done in cooperation with medical teams in private and government research institutes, for example the CSIR, MRC, SABS, pharmaceutical companies, universities and industrial bodies, specific government departments (for example the Department of Health) and health resorts. Physiologists are also found in several other fields, for example as teachers and lecturers at schools, colleges and universities. They act as consultants and representatives in the following fields: sport physiology, biostatistics, bio-engineering, industrial hygiene journalism, medical technology and in the business world as representatives of pharmaceutical companies.
Genetics
Over the past few years Genetics has expanded from the more classical population level approach, which mainly focused on the study of heredity patterns of characteristics, to a strong focus on the study of the molecular basis of genetic material. The arrival of recombinant DNA technology and, more recently, biotechnology has paved the way for an increasing series of available technologies. These technologies continuously enrich the existing research strategies and provide new opportunities for research, not only in Genetics, but also in other living sciences.
With a thorough background in Genetics you will be prepared for a challenging career in a variety of professions within a diverse range of fields. Nevertheless, it is important to remember that your level of training or qualification will play a big role with regard to the type of work where you as geneticist can become involved in. Most career opportunities in genetics incorporate work in a laboratory environment. While some laboratories mainly concentrate on research and analytical work, others focus more on routine and diagnostic work, like DNA sifting tests and testing of numerous genetic diseases and syndromes. Job opportunities, depending on your research focus, will also include fieldwork during which field experiments or material collections are done. There are also opportunities in private diagnostic and forensic laboratories. Geneticists can also be involved in teaching and education at several academic institutions.
A background in genetics is also valuable in other occupations like pharmaceutical representatives, or, if combined with an appropriate degree in law, a patent lawyer.
Biotechnology
Molecular biotechnology involves the use of in vitro genetic manipulation and recombinant DNA methods to genetically modify plants, animals and micro-organisms. This has become possible thanks to greater insight in the composition, structure and functioning of the genetic material in the cells of all living organisms. Biotechnologists make it their goal to repair, modify or strengthen specific characteristics in their target organisms in order to cover a broad spectrum of practical applications including improved food production, disease treatment, conservation and bio-correction. The growing series of new available technologies continuously enrich the existing research strategies and provide new opportunities for research, not only in genetics and biochemistry, but also in applied life sciences, like plant science, microbiology, plant pathology, the veterinary sciences and wildlife sciences.
It is clear that biotechnology will play a decisive role in the future of the medical, agricultural, veterinary and ecological sciences. It is our responsibility to ensure that this progress is done in a responsible and well-controlled way so that it doesn’t have a negative influence on the environment and our own health.
A background in biotechnology will enable you to compete for positions in a wide spectrum of areas in the living sciences. Career opportunities in biotechnology include work in a laboratory environment. Biotechnology laboratories can form part of an industrial, research or academic facility. There are an increasing number of opportunities at private biotechnological laboratories that specialise in contract work. Biotechnologists can also be involved in teaching and education at several academic institutions, or work as pharmaceutical representatives. It is important to remember that the level of education or qualification will be a strong determining factor with regard to the type of work that biotechnologists can get involved in.
Microbiology
Microbiology includes the study of micro-organisms, mainly bacteria, viruses and fungi (mould and yeast). The knowledge of taxonomy, metabolism and molecular biology are applied in ecology (the preservation of the environment), food microbiology, industrial microbiology, biological management and genetic manipulation of organisms.
Microbiologists have a wide variety of career choices at a variety of employers with activities ranging from basic research to applied activities. Here are a few examples:
Quality control, research and technology development at food and dairy industries, beer breweries, wineries and the bakers’ yeast industry;
Research on products of ethanol, antibiotics and other chemicals;
Research and consultation with regard to corrosion management and efflux treatment;
Research with regard the microbial recycling of gold and uranium;
Research and routine work as medical or veterinary microbiologists;
Research positions at institutions like the CSIR, the research institutes for animal and dairy science, plant protection, vegetables and ornamental plants, viticulture and oenology, and the Medical Research Council;
Lecturers and researchers at academic institutions.
Plant science
Plants are remarkable organisms, but we know way too little about them and their use for people. We already know that plants are the world best “factories” of chemical compounds. In Medicinal Plant Sciences you will get an overview of the discovery and use of plant medicines and important phytomedicinal molecules produced by plants. Some of these compounds are poisonous and play an important ecological role since it is secreted and serves as protection mechanisms against herbivores. In Crop Biotechnology molecular methods are discussed for the examination of total crop plant physiology used by model plants. Gene and promoter identification and transfer techniques for crop improvements are also examined.
In Plant Ecology and Plant Diversity the rich and diverse vegetation of South Africa is studied with a view on conservation and management for our descendents. Studies in Plant Science provide you with the opportunity to learn more about different types of plants and their use for humans and animals.
As plant scientist you can work at the National Botanical Institute, a variety of research institutes, the CSIR, seed merchants, nature conservation institutes, the Agricultural Research Council, academic institutions and the Department of Education.
Ecology and conservation biology
Ecology as science explains the spreading and numbers of organisms through the unravelling of the interactions between organisms and their environments. Conservation biology focuses on the application of ecological principles to the benefit of the preservation of biological diversity. Together ecology and conservation biology form the academic platform for the preservation of all forms of life on earth to their own benefit and to the benefit of each other.
Besides the classical methods which are based on the descriptive and experimental approach, computer-based methods like geographical information systems and distance observation are currently also used. Ecology as subject field is a very dynamic field which offers exciting research and job opportunities for graduates who are interested in the discerning use of natural systems. A background in ecology and conservation biology is also of great value in other scientific fields of study.
With a background in Ecology and Conservation Biology most career opportunities are environmentally based. Graduates find work at statutory and private conservation organisations, at organisations involved in the direct or indirect development of natural resources, and with the necessary academic background, at academic and training institutions.
Animal science and entomology
Animal scientists study the patterns and processes subjacent to ecology, as well as the threats that biodiversity faces in landscapes influenced by people. The subject field includes interdisciplinary focus areas in Ecology, Physiology, Physiological Ecology, Behavioural Ecology, Macro Ecology, Conservation Ecology and Evolutionary Biology to a dynamic student body.
Graduates can look forward to a variety of career opportunities at nature conservation institutes, environmental consultants, conservation planning agencies, the biochemical and biotechnological business, educational institutions and the business sector. Career opportunities include the full spectrum of modern research, development and training. It can range from full-time participation in the field to full-time training activities. The above often includes a stimulating combination of analytical, field and human research oriented work.
The contributions and comments of the following people are gratefully acknowledged: Stroh, A, Kirsten, J, Malherbe, JB and Lubuma, J – Faculty Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria.↩︎