In its broadest sense, biology is the study of living organisms - the science of life. Living cells come in an astounding array of sizes, shapes and forms and biologists endeavour to understand the basis of this diversity.
Over the last fifty years biology has undergone a major revolution and has evolved from what could be termed a ‘natural history’ approach with a somewhat dowdy image to a subject which is now at the forefront of major new scientific advances. This has been achieved by huge advances in technology and the growth in our understanding of the natural world. It is now widely recognised by governments world-wide that biology will be one of the key scientific disciplines of the next millennium and will have a similar impact on our lives as chemistry did in the 20th century.
Many biologists are currently working on problems that critically affect our lives such as the world’s rapidly expanding population, diseases such as cancer and AIDS, biological control of pests, bioremediation of polluted environments, increased food production and global warming to name but a few. This knowledge is fundamental to our ability to manage the world’s resources in such a way that we prevent/cure diseases and improve the quality of our lives and those of future generations.
One of the pivotal events in modern biology was the elucidation of the structure of DNA by Watson and Crick. This discovery in turn led to rapid and exciting advances in molecular genetics (also known as recombinant DNA technology). The application and ramifications of this powerful new technology in solving fundamental biological problem such as evolution of life on earth, cell development and regulation of gene expression as well as its potential in novel biotechnological processes are currently at an exciting stage of development. It will however be many years before the full potential of this technology will be realised.
The biotechnology industry, which has exploited the developments in recombinant DNA technology, has expanded rapidly since the 1970’s and today there are more than 1,800 companies involved world-wide with a stock-market valuation in excess of £70 billion. Many of the early developments were focused on health care and the production of pharmaceutical products. For example, novel processes for producing genetically engineered proteins in transgenic livestock have been developed and the recent birth of ‘Dolly’ the sheep has brought closer the concept of ‘biopharming’. Proteins produced and excreted in the milk of these animals can, after purification, be used as a replacement therapy for patients with genetic deficiencies which are life threatening, e.g. cystic fibrosis and multiple sclerosis. Such developments are not without their controversies and the ethics of cloning will need to be addressed if this technology is to be exploited.
Other exciting developments in the medical sector include in vitro production of tissues and organs required for transplantation surgery, personalised drug delivery systems and improved vaccines. Plant biotechnology (Agribiotech) is another burgeoning sector of the biotechnology industry. The challenge for plant biotechnology in the 21st century is how to feed the increasing populations in developing countries without damaging the planet. The ‘Green Revolution’ has already achieved dramatic results with the introduction of high yielding crops such as wheat, rice and maize. The next phase of development will focus on improving resistance to insect pests, disease and stress. The recent introduction by Monsanto of genetically modified soya beans, resistant to the herbicide ‘Round-up’, is an example of selective weed-control and it is now possible to genetically engineer resistance to viral, bacterial and fungal pathogens. Such developments, albeit controversial, will be needed to feed a world population predicted to reach 6 billion by the y ear 2000 and 10.8 billion by 2050.
Given that biology impacts on almost every aspect of our lives the range of jobs available is enormous and increasing. Historically, biologists have identified themselves with particular specialities such as botany, biochemistry, ecology, microbiology, physiology, anatomy, genetics, pharmacology etc. However, it is now widely recognised that a broad-based as well as specialised training is required by many employers. Many UK Universities therefore now offer degrees in Biological Sciences rather than individual subject disciplines. Biologists are employed in agriculture, aquaculture, biotechnology, education, environmental health, ecology, healthcare, wildlife conservation, bioremediation, the food industry and sports science. In addition many graduates now use their training in biology for careers in management, regulatory affairs, patent documentation and the media.
Further details of career prospects and opportunities in the U.K may be obtained from:
Careers in the Biological Sciences, Institute of Biology, 20-22 Queensbury Place, London SW7 2DZ
A Career in Pharmaceuticals, Association of the British Pharmaceutical Societies, 12 Whitehall, London SW1 2DY
Careers in Biomedical Science, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, 12 Coldbath Square, London EC1E 7AE
Careers in Biochemistry, The Biochemical Society, 59 Portland Place, London W1N 3AJ
Careers in Microbiology, The Society for General Microbiology, Marlborough House, Basingstoke Road, Spencer’s Wood, Reading RG7 1AE.
