Molecular Genetics

Overview

The research and teaching interests of the faculty range over all areas of modern genetics as well as molecular, cellular and developmental biology. 

The common focus of the department faculty is on the role of genes and the use of molecular and genetic techniques to answer questions in modern biology. The goal of molecular geneticists is to get a better understanding of basic biology and to apply that knowledge to practical problems in medicine, plant and animal breeding, and conservation. The Department of Molecular Genetics emphasizes studies on eukaryotes (animals, plants, fungi and protists), although most of the basic principles apply to prokaryotes (bacteria) as well.

Possible careers

Molecular geneticists with a BS degree often work as laboratory technicians. They are in demand to work on research projects in universities. Federal and state government agencies such as the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Energy, the Department of Agriculture and the Environmental Protection Agency hire molecular geneticists to work on a variety of applied research problems. In the private sector, agricultural and pharmaceutical companies are increasingly hiring molecular geneticists to apply their skills to genetic engineering as well as classical breeding programs. The new and growing biotechnology industry is largely based on the expertise of molecular geneticists.

Many molecular genetics majors go to medical or other professional schools. The major program is rigorous, and molecular genetics is an important area in modern medicine. Also, well-qualified majors are encouraged to participate in the faculty’s research programs. As a result, molecular genetics majors have been successful in gaining entrance to professional schools.

Many molecular genetics graduates go on to graduate school. A few of these get an MS degree, which qualifies them for higher-paying laboratory technician jobs. Most go directly to the PhD program. Molecular geneticists with a PhD are widely employed by government and industry to design and supervise research and development projects. Nearly all colleges and universities have molecular geneticists on their faculties, teaching and doing research. Molecular geneticists with a PhD plus postdoctoral research training are eligible for faculty positions at research-oriented universities like Ohio State.

A Molecular Genetics program at The Ohio State University does not limit one’s options to careers in medicine or biological research. Because this major provides the academic preparation and strong science background appropriate for students who plan careers in marketing, business or management in high technology industries, some molecular genetics students choose to use their science background to pursue a professional degree in business or law. A few students choose to put their molecular genetics training to use by obtaining a master’s degree in education and becoming science teachers.