Study the genes
GE or Genetic Engineering belongs to the higher genre of Science and can be very complicating as it entails various methods that can be used to change the hereditary factors in the DNA system of existing life forms. The meaning of Genetic Engineering is that of deliberately modifying the characteristics of a life form by manipulating the hereditary factors therein. Genetic Engineering features in the family of Biotechnology. There are good opportunities in this line as the need for engineers specializing in Genetics is expanding not just in India but all over the world.
The tiniest living form is a cell which is the foundation as well as that of the functioning form of all organisms such as plants, animals, humans or even fungi. The cells of every life form vary from just one cell in an organism to several cells in other forms that include human beings, the animal kingdom and the plant family. To cite an example, human beings are noted to have around cells amounting to three million!
The cell is made up of membrane that encircles the complete cell. The cell consists of several “organelles” that are similar to bodily organs. It also has a “nucleus” which is the central commanding section in a cell. Within the nucleus lie the chromosomes. This is the place provides storing of all information pertaining to genetic factors and this defines the character and behavior pattern of a life form. This knowledge is what you find on a slim thread known as DNA. The DNA is nothing but an acid of a nucleic which consists of the genes which are also known as hereditary units. The DNA overlooks the growth of cells and takes responsibility in the transmitting of hereditary information from one chronological group to the consecutive one.
The purpose of Genetic Engineering is the re-arranging of the DNA sequence pattern in a gene by making use of man-made methods. A genetic engineer is therefore involved in the extraction of DNA from one life form and rearranging it by making use of radiation or chemical compounds and ultimately restoring it into the same life form or even another one. To take an example – DNA genes and segments are removed from one type of life form and sent into another type. During this transmission process, Genetic engineers get to see the characteristics and behavior patterns passing from generation to generation and see how hereditary imbalances happen. Their field of research revolves around studying the causes and coming up with possible cures, if such be the case. Genetic engineering has certain specialties that relate to the plant family, the animal kingdom and that of humans. Genetic Engineering done on the plant family and the animal kingdom may look to improving the unaffected traits that are valuable, in decreasing the risk of disease or damages and to enhance new traits, etc. Genetic Engineering is used in changing of color, re-sizing and the quality, etc of plants and this also called as Genetically Modified (GM) foods. Genetic engineering in human beings can be used to change critical genetic imperfections by engineering healthy genes in the cells, thereby replacing the ones that are missing or imperfect.
The requirement for a BE / B.TECH degree requires 12th Standard or an examination that is similar. The subjects should consist of Biology which also deals with genetics as a subject, Chemistry, Mathematics. Otherwise, one requires a Science bachelors’ degree or that of Molecular Biology.
With regards to career and job opportunities, there is a rising need for genetics engineers in India and overseas. Genetic engineers mainly focus on medicals and pharmaceuticals or agriculture. They are also involved in researching and developing undertaken by the Government or Private companies. Teaching is another option for Genetic Engineers. Post Graduation in Genetic Engineering allows a salary between Rs.5,000 to Rs.8,000
Institutions of Genetic Engineering for Bachelors’ degree includes Kakatiya University in Warangal, The University of Osmania in Hyderabad. Both these colleges are in Andhra Pradesh.
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