Biowissenschaftler/Biowissenschaftlerin

To learn more about the profession of a Biowissenschaftler/Biowissenschaftin, you can consult the following publications: transkriptBiologie in unserer Zeit, BIOspektrum, Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences, Current Biology, Deine Zukunft: Biowissenschaften, Journal of Theoretical Biology, Online-Studienführer "Bachelor in den Biowissenschaften", Online-Studienführer "Master in den Biowissenschaften", PLOS Biology, vifabio - virtuelle Fachbibliothek Biologie.

Big Data in science is a significant trend for Biowissenschaftler/Biowissenschaftin. Researchers can analyze large datasets to identify risk factors for diseases or uncover complex interactions between proteins in medications. These analyses enable informed decisions for developing new technologies, designing better products, and maintaining competitiveness. Scientists need to familiarize themselves with this methodology to filter and evaluate relevant information.

Certain interests are important for success in this field. An interest in theoretical-abstract activities includes tasks such as developing new pharmaceutical products or examining water samples for microorganisms. An interest in organizational and auditing activities involves tasks like monitoring manufacturing processes for quality and environmental compatibility.

Biowissenschaftler/Biowissenschaftinnen primarily work in laboratories, office and meeting rooms, lecture halls and seminar rooms, production halls, and outdoors. Additionally, they may also work from a home office or remotely as needed.

Core competencies acquired or deepened during studies include biochemistry, biology, biomathematics, biophysics, biotechnology, development, research, microbiology, molecular biology, and cell biology. Furthermore, additional competencies that may be significant for this profession include drug development, bioanalytics, bioinformatics, biomass (energy use), biotechnological CO2 recycling, preparing scientific publications, genetic engineering, basic research, expert and consulting activities, clinical research, clinical trials (drugs), laboratory control software (DasyLab, Visio, Labview), university teaching, medical technology, molecular genetics, regulatory affairs (drug approval), stem cell biology, radiation biology, environmental analysis, and conducting and evaluating experiments.

The ongoing digitalization of the working world can change job profiles and requirements for Biowissenschaftler/Biowissenschaftinnen. Professionals in this field may have the opportunity to engage with technologies, procedures, or systems such as 3-D printing (e.g., participating in the production of osteochondral implants), 3-D simulation (modeling interactions of molecules, cells, and organisms), blended learning (preparing teaching materials for virtual and in-person learning), digital whiteboards (using interactive digital whiteboards in university lectures), laboratory information systems (analyzing microorganisms in water samples with networked lab equipment), Massive Open Online Courses - MOOC (conducting online courses at a university), and numerical simulation (calculating and analyzing results from biological experiments).

Bioscientists deal with the structure and function of living cells and organisms, their diseases and defects, as well as their healing. This knowledge is a prerequisite for a responsible approach to the environment and requires a sense of responsibility and a meticulous working method. Laboratory examinations demand precise observation, dexterity, concentration, and perseverance. When investigating the molecular structure and the structure of cell components, bioscientists need analytical thinking skills. When coordinating the production-oriented implementation of research results, they utilize their organizational and planning abilities. If they are active in teaching at universities, they also apply current pedagogical and subject-specific didactic knowledge and measure the quality of their teaching by the progress and feedback of students. They collaborate interdisciplinarily with representatives from various fields.

Example gross basic remuneration in the public service sector (monthly): 5,106 € to 5,874 €. Example gross basic remuneration in the commercial economy sector (monthly): 5,066 € to 6,439 €. Sources: Collective Agreement for the Public Service of the States (TV-L), Collection of Collective Agreements of the Bavarian State Ministry for Family, Labor and Social Affairs. Note: These figures are for orientation only. No claims can be derived from them.

Universities, universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen), professional and specialized academies. Universities. Universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen), dual universities (Duale Hochschulen), administrative universities of applied sciences (Verwaltungsfachhochschulen). Advanced training, schools for professional advanced training. Vocational schools (Berufsbildende Schulen). Post-secondary, non-tertiary education in healthcare schools. Natural, engineering, agricultural sciences and medicine. Other research and development in natural, engineering, agricultural sciences and medicine, e.g., research and development laboratories at pharmaceutical companies, Max Planck Institutes, biomedical research institutes. Research and development in biotechnology. Chemistry. Manufacture of other chemical products, e.g., fuels from biomass or microorganisms. Manufacture of pesticides, plant protection products, and disinfectants. Pharmacy. Manufacture of basic pharmaceutical products. Manufacture of pharmaceutical specialties and other pharmaceutical products. Healthcare. Hospitals, e.g., research and examination laboratories.

Those who wish to work in this profession typically need a completed undergraduate degree (grundständig Studium) in biosciences or biology. Leadership positions or specialized tasks usually require a master's degree (Masterstudium). Activities in science and research often require a doctorate (Promotion) or habilitation (Habilitation).

Biology (undergraduate - grundständig). Biology (postgraduate - weiterführend). Biosciences, Life Sciences (undergraduate - grundständig). Biosciences, Life Sciences (postgraduate - weiterführend).

Bioscientists find employment, for example, at universities and research institutes, in companies in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries, in healthcare (e.g., in neurobiological departments of hospitals), and in public administration (e.g., in environmental agencies).

Job Title: Bioscientist (Biowissenschaftler/in). Job Title in English: Bioscientist (m/f).

Project managers in genetic engineering facilities must demonstrate the required expertise. This includes an advanced university degree (Hochschulabschluss) in a relevant field, corresponding professional experience, and participation in a further training event recognized by the competent state (Bundesland) authority. A certificate of expertise according to the Plant Protection Expertise Ordinance may be required. Those working with pathogens of notifiable animal diseases require permission from the competent authority.

Some characteristics of work and social behavior are equally relevant for all professions and are therefore not mentioned separately. These include: reliability, punctuality, honesty, ability to criticize, and appropriate manners. In addition, the following profession-specific characteristics are required to practice this academic profession: Willingness to perform and commitment (e.g., willingness to actively and dedicatedly take on additional, technically demanding laboratory and monitoring tasks during work bottlenecks). Perseverance / determination (e.g., persistently working on the research of new biomedical active ingredients and their industrial manufacturability despite setbacks). Diligence (e.g., error-free planning and execution of test series in the laboratory). Independent working style (e.g., independently developing and optimizing biotechnological production processes for active ingredients and pharmaceutical intermediates). Creativity (e.g., developing new approaches).

Bioscientists research interactions between molecules, cells, and organisms with each other and their environment, working, for example, in product development, quality assurance, pharmaceutical consulting, or expert assessment.

Job and applicant portals: Alfred-Wegener-Institut für Polar- und Meeresforschung, analytik.de, Biologie.de, BiologyJobs.com, BioM, Bionity.com Karriere, Deutsche Zoologische Gesellschaft e.V., Environmentjob.co.uk, hum-molgen, inVitro+Jobs - Das Portal für tierversuchsfreie Forschung, jobvector, life-science Karriere Services, nature careers, SciTechCareer, Stellenmarkt-Umweltschutz.de, WILA-Arbeitsmarkt.

Associations and organizations: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG), Deutscher Bauernverband e.V. (DBV), VBIO Verband Biologie, Biowissenschaften und Biomedizin in Deutschland e.V., VDI-Gesellschaft Technologies of Life Sciences (VDI-TLS), ver.di - Vereinte Dienstleistungsgewerkschaft.

Bioscientists assume responsibility for individuals by adhering to hygiene and safety regulations to protect people and the environment. They also bear responsibility for assets by developing validation activities to ensure that production facilities and all manufacturing processes consistently meet required quality standards. They perform precise and delicate work, such as accurately concentrating chemical solutions. They engage in customer contact, for example, by informing doctors, clinics, and research institutions about pharmaceutical products. They perform manual tasks, such as setting up experimental apparatuses. They work with technical devices, machines, and systems, including testing equipment and laboratory facilities. They engage in screen work, for instance, by processing newly acquired data. They work with plants. They wear protective clothing and equipment, such as gloves, lab coats, and face masks. Their work takes place in laboratories, office spaces (e.g., preparing and evaluating data), and outdoors (on agricultural experimental fields). They handle microbiological substances and chemicals (during application).

Bioscientists have diverse career opportunities, categorized by fields of activity. These include laboratory analysis, laboratory management, lecturing at universities, teaching at universities and academies, and study program coordination. In quality assurance and management, they can serve as heads of quality management or quality assurance, or as quality managers. In process and product development, they can be heads of research and development, medical advisors, product developers, clinical study specialists (CRA), regulatory affairs managers, or approval officers. In scientific research, they can work as research specialists, leaders of research groups, geneticists, human biologists, or scientific staff members.

Objects of investigation for bioscientists include organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, cells, cell components, tissues, plants, animals, and ecosystems. They use laboratory equipment and accessories like microscopes, centrifuges, spectroscopes, chromatographs, cooling and heating devices, sequencing robots, measuring and testing instruments, reaction vessels, and pipettes. They work with chemical substances such as nutrient solutions, acids, alkalis, and disinfectants. They utilize documents like experimental protocols, training and lecture materials, expert opinions, biotope plans, quality guidelines, and hygiene, safety, and environmental protection regulations. Office equipment such as PCs, internet access, and telephones are also essential.

Bioscientists work in various fields. In research, they investigate areas such as molecular biology, microbiology, or genetic engineering, publish their findings, and conduct lectures at universities. In the pharmaceutical and biotechnological industries, they develop products and optimize existing pharmaceuticals. They are also involved in the approval and registration of new medicinal products. Furthermore, they advise doctors about pharmaceutical products or undertake tasks in environmental protection.

Continuing education for professional adaptation helps keep professional knowledge current and adapt it to new developments (e.g., in biology, biotechnology, chemistry, environmental protection, or research and development).

Bachelor's graduates can enhance their career opportunities through further studies, for example, in biosciences, life sciences, molecular science, or biotechnology. A doctorate is generally required for an academic career at a university, and a habilitation (postdoctoral qualification) is usually needed for appointment as a university professor. A doctorate may also facilitate access to advanced professional positions in the private sector, in research, and in public administration.

Bioscientists conduct basic research, for example, on the interactions of organisms and their environment. They develop biotechnological manufacturing processes for active ingredients and pharmaceutical intermediates. They participate in the transition of newly developed products from research to production, for example, by transferring manufacturing processes to a pilot plant scale, considering occupational and environmental protection guidelines. In science and teaching, they contribute to research projects and write reports, conduct courses, possibly administer exams, and supervise thesis and doctoral candidates. In development and production, they develop processing and testing procedures, transfer and adapt laboratory-developed production and processing methods to large-scale industrial production. They improve, find new applications for, or develop products. In manufacturing, they monitor quality, environmental compatibility, and business management specifications. If necessary, they develop and document validation activities.

The following additional employment alternatives are available for the profession of bioscientist: Scientific Research field, Biotechnological Engineer, Agricultural Scientist / Agricultural Economist, Horticultural Scientist, Bionicist, Environmental Scientist. Commonalities: conducting biological measurements, analyses, and laboratory tests; setting up experimental apparatus and conducting experiments, documenting results. Note: The mentioned job alternatives may require a longer training period or an additional Ausbildung (vocational training).

Bioscientists research the interactions between molecules, cells, and organisms among themselves and with their environment. Besides science and teaching, they are active, for example, in product development, quality assurance, pharmaceutical consulting, or expert assessment. In scientific research and teaching, they deal with the investigation of life processes. Bioscientists conduct studies at the molecular or cellular level, examining tissues, simple and complex organisms, up to entire ecosystems. The goal is to recognize connections, processes, and interactions and to identify regularities that can be applied in practical areas, for example, in medicine. Nanotechnology plays a forward-looking role here, which can be utilized, for example, in biomedicine for the transport of biological active substances such as medications. In general, interdisciplinary thinking is required.

The following abilities, knowledge, and skills are required for performing possible activities in this Studium (university degree) profession. Abilities: numerical (computational) thinking (e.g., applying computer-aided mathematical modeling); figural-spatial thinking (e.g., understanding the structure and interaction of complex molecules or the spatial structure of molecular compounds); technical understanding (e.g., developing large-scale technical processes and production facilities for pharmaceutical products); ability to plan and organize (e.g., coordinating the production-oriented implementation of research results).

Ordinance on Safety Levels and Safety Measures for Genetic Engineering Work in Genetic Engineering Facilities (Gentechnik-Sicherheitsverordnung - GenTSV) promulgated as Article 1 of the Ordinance of 12.08.2019 (BGBl. I S. 1235). Plant Protection Expert Ordinance (PflSchSachkV), amended by Article 376 of the Act of 31.08.2015 (BGBl. I S. 1474). Ordinance on Working with Animal Pathogens (Tierseuchenerreger-Verordnung - TierSeuchErV) of 25.11.1985 (BGBl. I S. 2123), last amended by Article 8 of the Ordinance of 31.03.2020 (BGBl. I S. 752).

The exercise of the profession may entail the following physical requirements. This information does not necessarily apply to every activity profile or every professional application. Functionality of arms and hands (e.g., setting up experimental apparatus in the laboratory); fine motor skills of hands and fingers (e.g., handling pipettes and sensitive laboratory equipment); undisturbed speech ability (e.g., advising established doctors or research institutions in sales regarding new medications; conducting sales negotiations); near vision - even corrected (e.g., processing newly acquired data on screen); color vision (e.g., recognizing color changes in experiments/procedures); hearing and speech comprehension (e.g., understanding inquiries from doctors about newly developed pharmaceutical products); healthy, resilient skin on hands and arms (e.g., handling chemicals when applying biochemical procedures; working with potentially allergy-triggering substances).

This section lists professions or activities that show similarities to the profession of Biowissenschaftler/Biowissenschaftlerin (Bioscientist). These professions can be a possible alternative for applicants who cannot find a vacant position in their learned profession. Furthermore, employers can consider specialists from these professions as alternatives for filling a position in the original profession. Some alternative professions only include partial activities of the original profession, while others may require an induction period, which can vary in length in individual cases. The following immediate employment and staffing alternatives are available for the profession of Bioscientist: Biochemist, Biologist, Biophysicist, Microbiologist, Molecular Biologist, and Neuroscientist. A list of all possible degrees of relatedness can be found in the explanations on BERUFENET.

The activity as a Bioscientist is not regulated. Therefore, no professional recognition is necessary to work in this profession with a qualification acquired abroad. However, there is the possibility to apply for an individual certificate evaluation for foreign university degrees through the Zentralstelle für ausländisches Bildungswesen (ZAB - Central Office for Foreign Education). This can be helpful for applications in the German labor market. Further information on living and working in Germany can be found at: 'Hotline Arbeiten und Leben in Deutschland' (central information hotline of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) and the Federal Employment Agency (BA)), 'Für Menschen aus dem Ausland' (an information offer from the Federal Employment Agency), 'Zentrale Auslands- und Fachvermittlung der Bundesagentur für Arbeit' (Central International and Specialist Placement of the Federal Employment Agency), and 'Make it in Germany' (the welcome portal of the skilled labor initiative for international specialists).

The following health limitations could lead to problems when performing this profession. The information does not necessarily apply to every activity profile or every professional application. Increasingly, there are also possibilities to compensate for limitations, for example, through technical aids. Restricted functionality of arms and hands (e.g., setting up experimental apparatus in the laboratory), restricted fine motor skills of hands and fingers (e.g., handling pipettes and sensitive laboratory equipment), speech disorder, speech impediment (e.g., advising established doctors or research institutions regarding new medications; conducting sales negotiations), uncorrectable poor eyesight for close proximity (e.g., preparing newly acquired data on screen), color vision deficiencies (e.g., recognizing color changes in experiments/procedures), hearing impairment, hard of hearing, deafness, hearing disorder, chronic ear ailments (e.g., understanding follow-up questions from doctors) could pose challenges.

The following additional staffing alternatives are available for the profession of Biowissenschaftler/Biowissenschaftlerin (Bioscientist) from an employer's perspective: In the field of Scientific Research: Engineer (Biotechnology), Agricultural Scientist / Agricultural Economist, and Horticultural Scientist. Commonalities include: conducting biological measurements, analyses, and laboratory tests; setting up experimental apparatus, conducting experiments, and documenting results. Note: The mentioned staffing alternatives may require an induction period, which can vary in length in individual cases.