Geneticist

Career path and progression

With experience you could become a clinical science laboratory supervisor or clinical study manager.

You might also use your skills in genetics to move into:

• bioinformatics
• agricultural science
• forensic science
• genetic counselling
• university lecturing
• medical ethics

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of biology
• science skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• excellent verbal communication skills
• analytical thinking skills
• maths knowledge
• persistence and determination
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Biology - Geneticists work at the heart of biology, studying how genes control growth, development, and inherited traits in humans, animals, plants, and microbes. They need a deep understanding of cell biology, DNA structure, and how organisms reproduce and pass on genetic information.
• Chemistry - Geneticists use biochemical techniques every day in the lab, such as extracting DNA, running gel electrophoresis, and working with enzymes and chemical reagents. Understanding molecular structures and chemical reactions is essential for preparing and analysing genetic samples.
• Mathematics - Geneticists use statistics to interpret experimental results and assess whether patterns in genetic data are significant. They also use probability when studying how traits are inherited and when developing computer models of gene behaviour.
• Computer Science - Geneticists develop computer models of genes and work with large genomic datasets that require programming and computational analysis. Bioinformatics – using algorithms and software to process DNA sequence data – is a major and growing part of modern genetics research.

Also relevant

• Physics - Geneticists use lab equipment that relies on physical principles, such as centrifuges, spectrophotometers, and X-ray crystallography. Understanding concepts like radiation, light absorption, and electromagnetic waves helps when working with these analytical tools.
• English Language - Geneticists write detailed scientific papers to publish their findings and prepare reports that communicate complex results clearly. They also give lectures and present at conferences, so being able to explain technical ideas to different audiences is important.
• Psychology - Geneticists who work in areas like genetic counselling need to understand how people respond to sensitive information about inherited conditions. Research into behavioural genetics also explores how genes and environment interact to influence human behaviour and mental health.
• Environmental Science - Geneticists studying plants, animals, and microbes often consider how genetic variation helps species adapt to changing environments. This is particularly relevant in agricultural genetics and conservation, where understanding ecosystems and environmental pressures shapes the research.