Molecular Biology & Biotechnology Specialist

Back to Program Pathways Index Page   |   Go to Department of Biological Sciences Website

[Download PDF]

Program Overview

This program first establishes foundational knowledge across the major disciplines of biology, and then combines this knowledge with increasingly molecular, analytical and reflective approaches to the study of Biology. This is a laboratory-rich program that integrates an understanding of chemical and physical processes within our complex biological systems. Broad training in biology and rigorous ancillary training in cognate disciplines, positions graduates to apply to professional and graduate schools or work in a broad range of government regulatory agencies, clinical, or research-focused industries. Co-op terms provide full-time work placements in laboratories, government, health care, or public and private industry. Placements help students both define and refine their career goals while providing invaluable work experience.

Check out future career opportunities and skills acquired from completing this program:

1. Competencies & Skills

  • RESEARCH: Experimental design, data analysis using statistics, critical interpretation of literature, advanced experimental techniques in molecular biology
  • COMMUNICATION: Written, oral, poster, debate, multimedia
  • CAPACITY: Teamwork skills, meet deadlines and expectations
  • VALUES: Advocate for Biology & fundamental research

2. Careers for Graduates

  • Academic Research Scientist • Clinical Research Assistant
  • Laboratory Research Associate (university, hospital, industry)
  • Laboratory Technician for Clinical Trials
  • Coordinator or Researcher
  • Biotechnologist
  • Pharmaceuticals (Research, Development, Sales)
  • Food Science
  • Quality Control & Inspection • Healthcare Professional

3. Further Education

  • Graduate Studies
  • Public Health
  • Genetic Counselling
  • Medical School
  • Dental School
  • Pharmacy
  • Optometry
  • Physical Therapy
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Nursing
  • Teacher Education
  • Clinical Research
  • Medical Laboratory Technology
  • Radiology Technologist (MRI, CT)

Program Pathway

Year 1
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY
DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER
Year 2
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY

DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS

  • Seek support from professors and TAs during office hours.
  • Check the Research Catalogue on CLNx for possible research opportunities.
  • Volunteer in research labs, hospitals, doctors offices, community organizations, foundations.
  • Consider doing a directed research course (BIOB98).

APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE

  • Take part in Conversation with Biologists, an event where students can interact with leading scientists and learn about their research and career trajectory.
  • Consider Work Study (>Jobs & Recruitment>Work Study) jobs or take a directed supervised research course (e.g., BIOB98).

BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)

PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER

  • Gain experience by applying for a summer, part-time or Work Study position via CLNx (>Jobs & Recruitment).
  • Speak to professors and program advisors so you know what to keep in mind for grad school.
  • Explore careers through AA&CC’s Job Shadowing and In The Field programs.
  • Apply for DSL’s All-In Leadership program.
Year 3

CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY

DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE
  • Continue to build on your skills and knowledge through relevant events offered through your department, student groups, DSL and the AA&CC.
  • Consider being a peer reviewer for the Journal of Natural Sciences.
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER
Year 4 or Final Year
CHOOSE YOUR COURSES WISELY
  • 0.5 Credit in Advanced Molecular Techniques: BIOD21H3.
  • 0.5 credit D-level Research-oriented “Cell & Molecular” Course Work from selected courses on Degree Explorer.
  • Use Degree Explorer to ensure you are on track to graduate.
  • Register your “Intent to Graduate” on ACORN by the deadline.
DEVELOP YOUR ACADEMIC & RESEARCH SKILLS
APPLY THEORY TO PRACTICE
BECOME AN ENGAGED CITIZEN (LOCALLY & GLOBALLY)
PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER
  • Attend the AA&CC’s Get Hired job search conference in April/May.
  • Attend the Jobs for Grads orientation for a job search “crash course”; find job opportunities on CLNx.
  • Discuss grad school plans early with staff at the AA&CC and your professors.
  • Get your Personal Statement reviewed in the AA&CC.

Contacts

Did You Know

Check out co-op work term presentations to learn how our students excel in a diverse range of jobs!