Overview

Biotechnology is a broad umbrella of biological research and development that draws upon the traditional fields of biochemistry, cell biology, molecular genetics, and microbiology to develop biological products and tools for human medicine, agriculture, and environmental management. The field emerged from the DNA cloning revolution of the 1970's but has now expanded to include a variety of applications from chemistry, computer sciences, mathematics, and physics. Since biotechnology concerns the application of science to human welfare and economic development, many business and law school programs have incorporated issues related to biotechnology into their curriculum. Currently, broad-based education encompassing all of these fields have been largely developed for masters-level programs; however, a small number of baccalaureate programs have emerged around the country, the B.S. in Biotechnology at UHD is the first in Texas and is still one of only three baccalaureate programs available in Texas. Numerous Texas community colleges offer associates degrees in biotechnology that is suitable for entry-level jobs in a variety of technical areas (see below). However, there is an urgent need in Texas for graduates with baccalaureate degrees to fill numerous jobs that require a rigorous liberal arts education. The Governor of Texas has called upon a task force (Governor's Council on Science & Biotechnology) to address this issue.

Biotechnology Careers in Texas

Career opportunities are increasing in Texas, and in the Houston area in particular. While Texas is far behind California, Massachusetts, and Michigan in industry development, it is expected to catch up to these states in the next decade. Currently, career opportunities cover a broad range of jobs (levels of academic education is listed in parentheses):

The key skills needed for any of the above jobs in biotechnology include:

Companies in the Houston Area

There are 20 major biotechnology companies in Texas and many smaller ones or branch offices of companies with home offices in other states. Half of the 20 major companies are in the greater Houston-San Antonio-Austin area. Below are interesting companies in the Houston area but a more complete list is available at the Texas Biotechnology Directory:

Biotechnology at UHD

UHD offers several degree programs in the life sciences suitable for students interested in pursuing a career in biotechnology, including a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology, which is a highly-interdisciplinary degree program that calls upon students to complete at least one semester of independent research. UHD also has a nationally-recognized academic program for ambitious science students, the UHD Scholars Academy, that provides training and education for students seeking challenging, satisfying careers in science, including biotechnology. Students in the Biotechnology Program at Montgomery College can participate in the 2+2 articulation program between UHD and Montgomery College. Students in the Biotechnology Program will complete at least one semester of independent research (fast becoming essential for entry into graduate school and higher paying entry-level jobs in the industry), which can involve research at the Texas medical Center, University of Houston, or Rice University.

Masters and Doctoral Programs

Masters and Doctoral degrees in biotechnology are increasing around the country. Any doctoral degree in molecular life sciences will prepare you for research & development positions of responsibility. The Houston area has several outstanding institutions that can provide doctoral training: University of Houston, Rice University, University of Texas Health Science Center, and Baylor College of Medicine.

Masters programs are fewer; however, they often provide a broader training outside of basic sciences that can be useful to individuals interested in careers outside of research in biotechnology-related sciences. Below are the Texas programs of which I am aware: