Kiran was very enthusiastic about joining a medical college and becoming a doctor but didn''t succeed in getting admission
because of the arduous procedures of entry tests. Later, keeping in view her inclination towards biological sciences, she took admission in Genetic Engineering. Earlier she wasn''t very enthusiastic but after a few months Kiran realised that, the subject holds key of human existence and it is the medical science of modern age. Now she feels lucky to have chosen Genetic Engineering and is very happy. Now the question is what genetic engineering is, and why it is called a modern day science? Genetic engineering is the science of DNA which is the protein holding information of heredity and variation in a human being. One of the best known applications of genetic engineering is that of the creation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). ‘Dolly'', the world''s first cloned living being was the miracle of genetic science. There are potentially momentous biotechnological applications of GE, for example vaccines produced naturally in fruits at very low cost. Genetically modified food is becoming very common in some foreign countries these days. Through this science, scientists play with the structure and enhance the wanted flavour and calorie for nourishment. And very interestingly, with the help of this DNA, criminals could easily get caught. Even a hair or tooth could become a strong clue for the holder. Identification of culprits through DNA is fast catching on in progressive countries. Although there has been a tremendous revolution in the biological sciences in the past twenty years, there is still a great deal that remains to be discovered. The completion of the sequencing of the human genome, as well as the genomes of most agriculturally and scientifically important plants and animals, has increased the possibilities of genetic research immeasurably. Responsibilities of a genetic engineer 1) Laboratory work usually with micro syringes, plastic disposable apparatus, controlled sterility/temperature/humidity/lighting environments, DNA separation and transfer systems, DNA analysis etc. 2) Maintaining organisms used for the genetic engineering: patients, animals, plants and micro organisms including cells and tissues from the higher organisms. A great deal of care and expense goes in keeping these living beings alive and healthy. 3) Keeping abreast of the scientific literature in genetic engineering. This involves searching literature abstracts databases and reading current journals in one''s speciality. 4) Dreaming up, designing, executing and interpreting experiments. 5) Publishing one''s experimental results by writing papers for scientific journals. 6) Attending international conferences on one''s subject area. These are advertised in the relevant journals. Daily functions, educational requirements/ licensure/ certification, career demand and specialties, salaries and personal qualifications. 7) Communicating with one''s colleagues both within and outside one''s workplace. Science is nowadays generally a team effort. 8) Attending to laboratory, dangerous organisms and radiological health and safety requirements. 9) Ordering equipment and organisms. 10) Teaching both theory and practice to junior colleagues and, if in a university, students. 11) Inventing new techniques and applications. Specialities within genetic engineering Gene therapy (germ line and somatic), cloning, cancer treatment with genetic engineering (a form of gene therapy), genetic diagnosis, genetic screening, genetic fingerprinting in forensic science, population genetics, human genome project, human genetic biodiversity project are some of the sub specialities that come under the wider umbrella of genetic engineering. Other areas include GE of animals for instance to make them into ‘bioreactors'' for producing valuable pharmaceutical proteins; genetic manufacturing of food crops, fibre crops, trees, etc. ; micro orgabacteria, moulds) used to produce vaccines, food additives/flavourings, pharmaceutical proteins (e.g. insulin), carbohydrate polymers, biochemical (e.g. amino acids), cheese, yoghurt, beers, and wines. Micro organisms also include viruses which are used as vectors to carry genes into higher organisms. Educational requirements High school and entrance exam to university covering biology, chemistry and mathematics, as well as genetics as part of biology. An undergraduate education in molecular biology or molecular genetics and a Bachelor of Science degree to qualify for studying for a research degree (Doctor of Philosophy, PhD). A PhD degree based on at least three years of your original research under the guidance of a supervisor. Some post-doctoral research experience in which you choose a domain of molecular biology to make your own. Practical experience in recombinant DNA techniques can be gained during academic research or through research and development (R&D) in industry. Laboratory technicians including those charged with the care of the living organisms to be genetically modified in many countries often require special training at technical colleges. Some technicians work their way up by coming in with no qualifications and learning on the job.