Duties and Responsibilities: Biological Technicians aid scientists both in the field and in house laboratories for research. They are considered a critical support team for research projects and often times lead campaigns. Typical duties and responsibilities for a Bio Tech: setting up and operating lab instruments, equipment, computer and software programs, performing routine analysis, providing technical support for both engineers and scientists, monitoring experiments while recording observations and producing calculations.

More experienced Biological Technicians can also be found identifying and preparing specimens for study, encouraging culture growth, collecting and recording field data, and heading up quality control (QA) assurance programs. Further duties involve conducting operational programs at fish hatcheries and greenhouse and livestock programs, managing plant and animal inventory surveys, handling biological, microbiological, chemical and biochemical tests, preparing reagents, performing analyses, and preparing and producing progress reports.

For animal research, Biological Technicians need to understand and practice good animal husbandry, understand and be familiar with applicable regulations governing the use of animals in research, prepare for inspections by accrediting bodies such as AAALAC.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

The biological technician needs good communication skills, the ability to keep detailed, accurate records, the ability to use scientific rules and methods for problem solving and trouble shooting, a strong understanding in mathematic principles, more and more a strong understanding of computers and software, the ability to work independently and as a team.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

Two year or four year degree in biological sciences, often a certificate in science and engineering, first aid training, a valid drivers licence, and other safety training.

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