Geneticists research and study the inheritance of traits at the molecular, organismal or population level.
Primary Duties:
- Collaborate with biologists and other professionals to conduct appropriate genetic and biochemical analyses.
- Maintain laboratory notebooks that record research methods, procedures, and results.
- Prepare results of experimental findings for presentation at professional conferences or in scientific journals.
- Search scientific literature to select and modify methods and procedures most appropriate for genetic research goals.
- Supervise or direct the work of other geneticists, biologists, or technicians working on genetics research projects.
- Attend clinical and research conferences and read scientific literature.
- Evaluate genetic data by performing appropriate mathematical or statistical calculations and analyses.
- Review, approve, or interpret genetic laboratory results.
- Maintain laboratory safety programs and train personnel in laboratory safety techniques.
- Create or use statistical models for the analysis of genetic data.
- Design and maintain genetics computer databases.
- Write grants and papers or attend fundraising events to seek research funds.
- Analyze determinants responsible for specific inherited traits, and devise methods for altering traits or producing new traits.
- Geneticists in academia teach university students, supervise lab activities, as well as conduct and publish their own research findings.
Education and Training:
Undergraduate degree in Biology, Microbiologist and Cell and Molecular Biology, or other related biology science is required. Most geneticists earn doctoral degree.
Salary and Wages:
Average hours worked: 38.9 hours per week
Average wage: $40.98 per hour
Average salary (Alberta): $82,460.00 per annum