Biological Technician Responsibilities

Biological technicians work in the field of life sciences. The life sciences encompass the study of plant life, animal kingdom, human life, and microscopic organisms. Scientists require strong technical support while conducting research on livings things and their life processes. This responsibility of providing technical assistance is shouldered by the biological technician. They gather the materials and knowledge necessary for research and provide it to the biological technician. There are several more aspects to the biological technician responsibilities. We have discussed them in detail below.

Responsibilities of a Biological Technician

• Conduct field trips to collect samples of the species and of their environment
• Clean, operate, and prepare the equipments required for experiments
• Assist the lead scientist in noting down the readings of the experiments and in prescribed format
• Provide assistance to scientists in conducting microbiological, biological, chemical, etc., tests
• Analyze the research data post experiments and report the conclusions
• Clean and maintain the materials used for experiments such as test-tubes, microscopes, scales, etc.
• Cultivate specimens of species required for research
• Prepare solutions of appropriate composition as necessary for the experiments
• Maintain stock of laboratory supplies

Biology is a vast subject. Hence, there are several applications of science of biology. These are a few prominent biological technician types:

• Laboratory animals care technicians provide assistance during the experiments conducted on animals. They look after the animals such as guinea pigs and mice and ensure they are kept under clean conditions.
• Microbiology technicians provide assistance to scientists who conduct experiments on microscopic organisms. They study molds, viruses, and bacteria. They identify the formation and growth of bacteria in environment and its impact on other life forms.
• Certain technicians work for experiments conducted on insects. They study different insects, their life cycle, and their negative effects on the environment. They identify the ways of controlling insect growth and methods to cure the diseases they spread.
• Certain technicians work in the food processing industry. They develop ways of canning and preserving the food items without compromising on its health benefits. They find out ways of improving food production.
• Technicians associated with agriculture conduct experiments to develop new varieties of seeds and fertilizers in order to enhance the food production. They develop sources that will allow farmers to yield 2-3 varieties of crops throughout the year with improved productivity.
• Technicians associated with environmental firms invent new ways of curbing the negative impact of industrialization on the environment by finding alternative energy resources and adopting environment friendly products.

A biological technician requires bachelor's degree in biology or chemistry to work at this position. Also, it is preferred that one has knowledge about other branches of science in addition to the knowledge of biology science. Qualities such as analytical skills, ability to observe and make conclusions, finger dexterity and precision in work, and proficiency in making reports are vital for this profile. Also, knowledge of lab safety procedures and first aid is important for this profile.

A technician spends most of the time in laboratories. However, at times he is expected to travel to distant places and go on-field to gather specimens. Exposure to infectious microorganisms and stay at unhygienic conditions posses the threat of affecting the health of the technician. Biological technicians work with research centers, associated with private firms, government, and educational institutes. Their job role remains same in all the organizations. Although the biological technicians earn healthy remunerations, there is a limited scope for growth opportunities in this position.

Biological technician responsibilities are related to research and development functions. Scientists fulfill the research projects due to the support of the technician. If you take keen interest in research activities, then the work profile of a biological technician is apt for you.