As the genes that cause diseases are identified, the companies need molecular biologists to create drugs to correct imbalances in faulty genes. A relatively small number of people are employed as biological scientists in Minnesota. Employment is projected to grow from 684 in 1996 to 814 in 2006, an above average growth rate of 19 percent. Training and Aptitudes. Persons in this career should have above-average intelligence, excellent math skills, and good communication skills, both verbal and written.
Computer skills are increasingly important.
Runner up Hot Track. Over the past decade, new gene discoveries have helped doctors develop gene therapies to fight once fatal diseases. Over the next 10 years, experts predict plenty of work at biotech firms, research hospitals, and medical schools for geneticists to help identify the 90 percent of genes yet to be name-tagged. U.S. News and World Reports, MN Career Information System, MN Department of Economic Security, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Am. Chem. Society, Univ. of Cali.