Biotechnological Advances and the Human Race
Moral debates in bioethics continue to surround the field of biotechnology. The public response to issues such as the value of genetically-modified organisms (GMOs), versus the risks involved in their release into the environment, more-or-less quenched the enthusiasm of the bioremediation industry for GMO research, in the early 1980’s. Genetically modified foods (GMFs) continue to be produced, but with more and more governments clamping down on production and distribution and answering calls by the public demanding strict testing and labelling procedures.
Exciting new developments are being made in bio-fuels research, at a time when fossil fuel prices are continually increasing. However, the question of whether a diminishing supply can meet the ever-increasing demand is under debate by those who don’t believe the fossil fuel crisis is imminent, and those who are concerned about the diversion of food crops for fuel production. If they are correct, there is still some question of whether the cost of biofuels research and development is worth the effort.
The Stem Cell Research Debate
Stem cell research is a highly controversial area of biotechnology wherein pluripotent cells are used for biomedical purposes. There are the highly publicized and emotional debates surrounding the use of human embryos to derive stem cells and although the benefits of such research are obvious to most, the cost to human rights, morality and religious integrity are too high for some. There are other sources of stem cells, however, and these alternatives are proving just as effective for regenerative medicine, therapeutic cloning and other technological purposes.
The Current State of Affairs
Despite on-going debates and occasional road-blocks, the biotech industry continues to persevere. Anyone looking for a career in biotechnology can choose from a wide variety of scientific and non-scientific disciplines, ranging from molecular genetics to chemistry, to business management and law. A chosen career in a biotech startup is sure to lead to a variety of roles and responsibilities on a daily basis. A startup is a risky endeavor, both as a job choice, or for venture investors. However, the many roles of a startup employee are what makes this career path appealing to many.
Almost every aspect of human life is touched by biotechnology. We continue to look for ways to improve our health, increase food production with an eye to feeding the poor in less industrialized countries, and clean up our environment. Green biotechnology offers environmentally sound solutions to the onslaughts of the industrial revolution, and a wealth of hidden answers to our most intriguing medical questions. For those reasons, biotech research will carry on and the industry is here to stay.