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Jump Start -- by Mark Sproxton
Biotechnology can be a tough industry to crack. Despite a need for employees, employers prefer to hire those who have experience. That's where the First Job Internship program fits in.
First Job is available to those under 30 who have at least a high school diploma, although a university degree in a related discipline is the best bet to land an internship, said Brigitte Savoie, Manager of Professional Development with the Biotechnology Human Resource Council (BHRC).
"There is a big chunk missing between university and a biotech job," she said. "And that's experience. The intention is to get people who have no experience, that experience."
The internship program, through the federal government and BHRC, gives employers a grant to help cover costs of taking on an intern. Depending on whether companies take an intern for six months or a year, means there'll be anywhere from 21 to 42 opportunities available this year. Savoie said a majority of the program's interns have been hired as permanent employees by their internship sponsor.
While the number of job vacancies in biotechnology across the country are many, the opportunities for internships are limited. In the year-and-a-half the First Job program has been around, Savoie has received over 600 applications.
To apply, click here and fill out the form accordingly.
For some more ideas on where to go for related education/training, job boards, and organizations and associations, read on:
Education/training
Through its faculty of medicine, the University of Calgary offers a master of biomedical technology program for graduate students to experience the world of biotechnology. Medical degrees are also available at the U of C with concentrations in areas such as biochemistry and molecular biology, medical genetics and pathology and laboratory medicine.
The University of Calgary offers graduate and post-graduate science degrees in numerous fields including biochemistry, cellular, microbial and molecular biology and zoology through the faculty of science. The U of C also offers degrees in chemical engineering.
SAIT offers a two-year diploma in chemical engineering technology and chemical technology. A medical laboratory technician program is also available.
The University of Lethbridge offers degrees in programs such as: biological sciences, chemistry and biochemistry, environmental science and agricultural biotechnology & agricultural studies.
The University of Alberta offers several different science degrees in addition to offering medical degrees relating to biotechnology and genetics.
Job Boards
Organizations/Associations
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