University at Buffalo (UB)
What do cheese, biofuels and genetic engineering have in common? They're all possible thanks to biotechnology—a field that uses living organisms to create useful products. If you like working hands-on in a lab and you’re good at bio, then this might be the perfect program for you—especially if you want a flexible major that can lead to careers in environmental research, pharmaceuticals, the food and beverage industry and many other paths.
Get the lab time you need to master your skills while also learning about biotechnology theory. You’ll typically start by taking mostly bio and chem classes and labs (like cell biology and organic chemistry), then move into advanced subjects like cell culture techniques, immunology, genetics and ethics in medicine. You’ll also be able to take electives in areas like anthropology, forensic science and toxicology.
This program is in UB’s medical school, which means students have access to expert faculty, state-of-the-art labs, research projects and other opportunities through UB's affiliated hospitals and clinics.
If you're looking for real-world experience and a head start on your career, then think about an internship. UB students have interned at Bayer Pharmaceuticals, national research labs and a children’s hospital lab, among (many) other locations.
You can conduct research on campus with UB faculty to practice your lab skills—and present your findings.
Some students choose to study abroad, and spend a summer living and learning in a different country.
You can also make friends, build your network and meet speakers by joining student clubs and attending events on campus throughout the year.
One of the great things about a biotechnology degree is that it opens up doors for you to work in many different types of organizations.
For example, you can use your talent and skills in a lab, a private business, a university or a government agency.
As a biotechnology graduate, your career choices may include:
Not ready to get a job right away? Some students decide to go to graduate school in biology, forensics or another science-related field. Other students choose to go to a professional school such as medical school, dental school or veterinary school.
In a hands-on field, it’s important to have teachers and mentors who will take the time and work closely with you—which is who you’ll find at UB. In fact, our faculty members have received numerous awards for their teaching results and expertise, including the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching.
In addition, our faculty members have been recognized and honored by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Society for Neuroscience, American Neurological Association and Genetic Toxicology Association, among other organizations. They also typically hold memberships and fellowships in many leading professional organizations, including the Association of Clinical Scientists, American Society for Clinical Laboratory Sciences and American Association for Clinical Chemistry.