- knowledge of biology
- excellent verbal communication skills
- science skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- thinking and reasoning skills
- maths knowledge
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to read English
- the ability to use your initiative
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
In your day-to-day duties you may:
- use laboratory techniques to prepare and analyse samples of genetic tissue
- record and interpret the results of experiments and tests
- use data and statistics to develop computer models of genes
- write reports for other professionals
- report and publish your findings in scientific papers
- plan lectures and teach students
- supervise, train and mentor other laboratory staff
You may need to wear protective clothing.
You could work at a university, in a laboratory or at a research facility.
As a research geneticist, with experience you may be able to work your way up to laboratory supervisor or clinical study manager. Lecturing in a university or teaching may also be an option.
You could move into scientific sales or, with further studies, qualify as a genetic counsellor.
You can find out more about careers in genetics from The Genetics Society and the The British Society for Genetic Medicine.