More and more people are demanding that less chemicals are used to make

products they use, while the manufacturers of these products are continually trying
to improve and increase their output without harming the environment. The key to
meeting both these needs has been found in enzymes – natural substances which
are used to speed up chemical reactions (catalysts).

Who can help industry find the right

enzyme-based product, or introduce a newly-
discovered enzyme to solve a specific problem?
The Technical Sales
Representative!
Meet Thando Mbandlwa,
a Technical Sales Representative
at Novozymes SA in Johannesburg
BSc (Biochemistry and Chemistry)

… the challenge of the job:

“In sales, the reality is that you will be
turned down at some stage, regardless of how
good your product is!”
… career satisfaction:
“Grasping the problem and selling the solution!”
… a common misconception encountered:
“People who say that they don’t eat bread
with enzymes in it!”

What does Thando do?

Thando helps producers in the sugar,
baking, brewing and detergent industries
to select enzyme-based products to improve
their performance.

Different enzymes are used for different

tasks, depending on what chemical reaction
they help. For example, enzymes are used
in bread baking to ensure longer shelf-life,
improve crumb structure, and to add
volume. The detergent industry uses
enzymes to ensure cleanliness without
using too many chemicals. The enzyme
protease speeds up the breakdown of
proteins to remove a gravy spill or a dirty
collar whereas lipase speeds up the
breakdown of fat, making it water soluble.

What do I need to be a
technical salesman?
Characteristics:
Good communication and problem-solving
skills, ability to move between a scientific,
manufacturing and margin-driven sales
domain
Important school subjects:
Biology, Mathematics, Physical Science
Qualifications:
NDip or BTech in Biotechnology or Food
Technology; BSc – Natural Sciences/
Biotechnology/Microbiology/Chemical,
Molecular & Cellular Sciences/
Biochemistry/Biological Sciences/Molecular
and Cellular Biotechnology

Where can I get a job as a

technical salesman in the
biotechnology domain?
Multinational, commercial companies
producing biological products with
distributing offices in South Africa
The variety of genes present in different populations (groups of people) throughout the
world has changed over hundreds of years. These changes have been caused by natural
and man-made disasters, changes in lifestyle and by historical events. Can this history
of populations help us to understand the links between certain genetic variations and
disease - or health?

Who can explain why one group of people is more

likely to get a certain disease and help us use this
knowledge to fight sickness and improve health?

The Human Geneticist!

Meet Himla Soodyall,
a Human Geneticist at the National
Health Laboratory Service (NHLS)
affiliated with the University
of the Witwatersrand
BSc (Microbiology and Biochemistry),
BSc Hons (Microbiology),
MSc (Biotechnology),
PhD (Human Genetics),
Post Doc in Anthropology

… the challenge of the job:

“It is challenging to work in a field
fraught with public fears and misconceptions.”
… career satisfaction:
“It is extremely rewarding to contribute to capacity
development in the country in which I was given
chances during the apartheid era.”
… a common misconception about the job:
“Everyone thinks I do everything
related to genes!”

What does Himla do?

Himla studies how DNA, the inherited material
that makes us who we are, is passed from
parents to children. This helps us understand
why certain people are at risk for certain
diseases and how this risk developed through-
out history. DNA often changes for no reason
(mutations). Some mutations can cause
disease, while others do not, and geneticists
are able to identify those that are and those
that aren’t linked to disease.

Recently, Himla has been studying the differ-

ences in people from all over Africa and how
this compares with people from around the
world. This can explain why people in certain
countries are prone to certain diseases, such
as diabetes and types of cancer.

What do I need to be a
human geneticist?
Characteristics:
Natural inquisitiveness, endurance
Important school subjects:
Biology, Mathematics, Physical Science
Qualifications:
BSc – Biochemistry/Natural Sciences/Biological
and Life Sciences/Biotechnology; Microbiology/
Molecular and Cell Biology/Environmental
and Biological Sciences/Chemical and Biological Sciences
Note: You need an MSc or PhD for higher positions in lecturing and research.

Where can I get a job as a human geneticist?

Laboratories conducting medical diagnostic services, universities, medical research
laboratories

Related careers:
Pathologist, Geneticist, Clinical Geneticist, Genetic Counsellor
To stay healthy, people everywhere need to keep their immune systems,
which recognize and fight microbes that attack their bodies, working well.
This is difficult for people that do not eat properly because of lack of food,
those with stressful lives and those affected by environmental pollutants. Without
an optimal immune system that can fight infections, diseases such as tuberculosis
(TB), hepatitis and HIV/AIDS cause millions of deaths every year.

W h o k n o w s e n o u g h a b o u t h o w c e lls w o r k
to d e v e lo p n e w v a c c in e s a n d tr e a tm e n ts
to fig h t th e s e d is e a s e s ?
T h e Im m u n o lo g is t
M e e t P a tr ic k B o u ic ,
an Immunologist at Synexa
Life Sciences in Cape Town
B S c (B io lo g ic a l S c ie n c e s ),
B S c H o n s (I m m u n o lo g y a n d E m b r y o lo g y )
P h D (I m m u n o lo g y )

…the biggest
challenge of the job:
“You have to believe in the research
route you are taking even though you cannot
anticipate the outcome.”
… career satisfaction:
“Developing a test that indicates who is prone
to a certain disease or developing a therapy
which could improve the quality
of life of someone suffering from
a disease.”

W h a t d o e s P a tr ic k d o ?
Patrick studies how the cells designed to
protect humans against infections, work.
To develop a vaccine against a specific
disease, he has to find out how to trigger
these protective cells to work before we get
infected. A vaccine teaches our bodies to
recognise disease-producing microbes.
Patrick is also researching the immune
activities of natural products, such as
Buchu, a small indigenous shrub only
found in the Western Cape, and how it can
be used with man-made medicines to treat
chronic diseases such as arthritis.

His job at Synexa focuses on ensuring that

the biological products they make, are of a
high quality and as safe as possible.

W h a t d o I n e e d to b e a n im m u n o lo g is t?
C h a r a c t e r i s t i c s : Curious nature, critical mind, enjoy interacting with people
I m p o r t a n t s c h o o l s u b j e c t s : Biology, Mathematics, Physical Science
Q u a l i f i c a t i o n s : BSc – Biotechnology/Microbiology/Molecular and Cell Biology/
Biological and Life Sciences and BSc Hons – Medical Cell Biology/Immunology
N o t e : You need an MSc (Immunology/Medical Cell Biology) and/or PhD for higher
positions in lecturing and research
P r e - r e q u i s i t e : Registration with Health Professional Council of SA (HPCSA) to work
with human blood and tissues

W h e r e c a n I g e t a jo b a s a n im m u n o lo g is t?
Research organisation (e.g. Medical Research Council), universities, biotechnology
start-up companies, large pharmaceutical companies

R e la te d c a r e e r s :
Cell Biologist, Vaccine Development, Microbiologist, Medical Technologist
Worldwide, people are becoming more concerned about the safety of food.
Can we combine our knowledge of micro-organisms (tiny living things) and
how plants work to ensure a safer global food supply?

Who can help us ensure that our food

is of the highest quality?
The Plant Pathologist!
Meet Margareth Mahlangu,
Quality Assurance and Food Safety
Manager at the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market
B Inst Agrar (Plant Protection),
M Inst Agrar (Plant Pathology)

...the biggest
challenge of the job:
“Many people battle with the concept
of micro-organisms because they can’t
be seen. They only realise something is
wrong with their food when customers
start complaining.”
… career satisfaction:
“Affecting change, no matter
how small.”

What does Margareth do?

A plant pathologist studies micro-
organisms and environmental
conditions that cause plant
diseases and recommends how
these diseases can be managed
or controlled.

Margareth is an expert in
plant diseases, and has a back-
ground in microbiology (study
of microscopic living things).
Some micro-organisms cause
food to spoil and others cause
diseases. Contamination with chemicals or pesticides can also make food
unsafe. Her job at the Johannesburg Fresh Produce Market (JFPM) is to
make sure that the fresh fruit and vegetables traded every day (average
of 2700 tons) are safe to eat and of the highest quality.

What do I need to be a plant pathologist?

Characteristics:
Attention to detail, patient, dynamic, persistent
Important school subjects:
Biology, Mathematics, Physical Science
Qualifications:
BAgric/BScAgric/B Inst Agrar

Where can I get a job as a plant pathologist?

Agricultural research organisations, universities, Department of Agriculture,
retailers, agricultural consulting companies, diagnostic laboratories, biological
control companies, seed and plant production companies

Related careers:
Microbiologist, Crop Scientist, Molecular Biologist, Plant Physiologist

science and technology

Department:
Science and Technology
REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
…the working environment:
At a junior level, it can involve
a lot of lab work, and the ‘yuck’
factor can be quite high, as you
will work with contaminated
plants or be doing quality checks.
At a more senior level there is
more office work.”
Cancer of the oesophagus – the tube that links the mouth to the stomach - is
the most common cancer in South African black males. Research looks at what
causes this disease, how it can be treated, and why some people are more likely
to develop it than others.

W h o c a n h e lp u s u n d e r s ta n d w h y a n o r m a l c e ll
tu r n s in to a n a b n o r m a l c e ll a n d c a u s e s c a n c e r ?
T h e M e d ic a l B io c h e m is t!
M e e t Iq b a l P a r k e r,
Head of Medical Biochemistry and
Director of Research at the Faculty of
Health Sciences, University of Cape Town
and Head of the MRC/UCT
O esophageal Cancer Research Group
B S c N a tu r a l S c ie n c e s ,
B S c H o n s (B io c h e m is t r y ),
P h D (B io c h e m is t r y )

…a common
misconception about the job:
“That you can design an experiment to
finish on a F riday afternoon or prior to
a public holiday!”
…the ultimate career satisfaction:
“B eing at a dead-end and then suddenly realising that
there is another option. W hat looks like a disappointing
result can lead to something truly exciting! ”
… worst nightmare:
“C oming up with something that contradicts
the findings of one of the major players
and engaging in a battle
to get it published.”

W h a t d o e s Iq b a l d o ?
Biochemistry is about trying to understand the chemical processes that
happen in living cells that are needed for the cell to survive, reproduce, and
do its “ job” . For example, the job of red blood cells is to make haemoglobin
which carries oxygen around the body. To do all this, a cell needs DNA.

Iqbal’s job is to find new ways to treat and cure medical conditions and
diseases by using his knowledge about what happens within the building
blocks of cells. Iqbal and his team are finding, for example, that some
people are less likely to get cancer because their “ detox” genes code for the
“ best” enzymes to remove toxins caused by smoking and drinking.

W h a t d o I n e e d to b e a m e d ic a l b io c h e m is t?
C h a r a c te r is tic s :
Perseverance, commitment, analytical mind, meticulous nature
I m p o r t a n t s c h o o l s u b j e c t s : Mathematics, Biology, Physical Science
Q u a lific a tio n s :
BSc – Biochemistry/Natural Sciences/ Biological and Life Sciences/ Biotech-
nology/ Microbiology/Molecular and Cell Biology/Human Life Sciences/
Bio-organic Chemistry/Chemical, Molecular & Cellular Sciences, or similar

W h e r e c a n I g e t a jo b a s a m e d ic a l b io c h e m is t?
Mostly research institutions, including universities and medical research
groups such as the Medical Research Council (MRC), biotechnology
companies, some multinational pharmaceutical companies

R e la te d c a r e e r s :
Clinical Biochemist, Chemical Pathologist, Medical Scientist
Can we use living things to clean up waste and pollution
caused by industry, without stopping industrial development?

W h o c a n h e lp u s f in d m ic r o -o r g a n is m s (t in y liv in g
th in g s ) th a t c a n b e u s e d in r e c y c lin g o r u s e d
to b r e a k d o w n a n d r e m o v e to x in s fr o m w a s te ?
T h e E n v ir o n m e n ta l
B io te c h n o lo g is t!
M e e t P a tr ic ia M o lip a n e ,
a Biotechnologist specialising
in waste water treatment at
Sasol’s Research and Development
Department in Secunda
B S c (M ic r o b io lo g y a n d B io c h e m is t r y ),
B S c H o n s (B io t e c h n o lo g y ),
M S c (B io t e c h n o lo g y )

… the challenge of the job:

“The industrial research programme
is shorter than in many other research
environments and focuses on practical aspects
and not fundamental research.”
… a common misconception:
“The responsibility of the job is sometimes
underestimated. Important decisions
are taken based on your
recommendations!”

W h a t d o e s P a tr ic ia d o ?
Sasol is an international chemical and
fuel company that uses a lot of water for
cooling. This results in a lot of different
types of waste water (sewage). Patricia’s
job is to evaluate new technologies and
to find the best and cheapest ways of
cleaning this waste water. Some of the
water is cleaned using “ biological treat-
ments” – meaning that micro-organisms
are used. These ‘b ugs’ use the carbon in
the wastewater as an energy source.

W h a t d o I n e e d
to b e a n e n v ir o n m e n ta l
b io te c h n o lo g is t?
C h a r a c t e r i s t i c s : Team player, good
interpersonal skills, independent
problem-solving abilities, assertive
and self-motivated

I m p o r t a n t s c h o o l s u b j e c t s : Mathematics, Biology, Physical Science

Q u a lific a tio n s :
BTech – Biotechnology; BSc – Biochemistry/Biotechnology/Microbiology/Chemical
and Biological Sciences or similar
N o t e : Some employers require a minimum of a BSc Honours degree.
You need a Masters or PhD for higher positions in lecturing and research.

W h e r e c a n I g e t a jo b a s a n e n v ir o n m e n ta l
b io te c h n o lo g is t?
Companies in the chemical, paper, sugar and electricity domains as well as some
universities

R e la te d c a r e e r s :
Industrial Microbiologist, Biochemist, Biotechnologist, Bioprocess Engineer
Around the world, making sugar is a very competitive industry. In South Africa,
half of the sugar produced is exported, but it is difficult to make a profit due to
the low sugar prices worldwide. New ways have to be found to keep our sugar
production competitive. O ne way is to grow types of sugarcane that are best
suited to the South African growing conditions.

W h o c a n h e lp o u r s u g a r c a n e g r o w e r s
b y m a k in g th e ir p la n ts r e s is ta n t to
p e s ts a n d d is e a s e s ?

T h e A g r ic u ltu r a l
B io te c h n o lo g is t!
M e e t S a n d y S n y m a n ,
a Senior Research O fficer in the
Biotechnology Department of the
South African Sugarcane Research
Institute (SASRI) near Durban
B S c (B o t a n y a n d M ic r o b io lo g y ),
B S c H o n s (P la n t P a t h o lo g y ),
M S c (B io lo g y ),
P h D (P la n t B io t e c h n o lo g y )

…the biggest
challenge of the job:
“The personal frustration that comes from
knowing that although we have succeeded
in creating an improved plant through genetic
engineering, it might never be sold commercially
because of consumer resistance to GMO s!”
... a common misconception:
“That we are lab rats! The job is both
in the lab and field and we interact
with many different
researchers.”

W h a t d o e s S a n d y d o ?
Sandy’s job is to improve sugarcane in
South Africa. She uses different methods,
including Genetic Modification (GM), which
changes the genetic “ recipe” of the sugar-
cane. This is when a new gene that codes
for a particular characteristic (e.g. insect
resistance) is put into the sugarcane plant.

Sandy and her team also use tissue culture

techniques in the laboratory. This is when
different plant cells are multiplied or
grown in a specially prepared hormone
medium which provides them with every-
thing they need to grow. These clusters of
cells can develop into whole plants. They
are also investigating how the amount of
sugar in sugarcane can be increased.

W h a t d o I n e e d to b e a n
a g r ic u ltu r a l b io te c h n o lo g is t?
C h a r a c t e r i s t i c s : Natural curiosity,
methodical and precise by nature

I m p o r t a n t s c h o o l s u b j e c t s : Biology, Mathematics, Physical Science

Q u a lific a tio n s :
MSc – Natural Sciences/Biological and Life Sciences/Biotechnology/
Microbiology/Molecular and Cell Biology or similar
M Tech (Biotechnology)

W h e r e c a n I g e t a jo b a s a n a g r ic u ltu r a l b io te c h n o lo g is t?
Agricultural research institutes, many of which are linked to the Agricultural
Research Council (ARC), universities and commercial companies such
as Mondi and Sappi

R e la te d c a r e e r s :
Plant Pathologist, Molecular Biotechnologist, Plant Molecular Biologist,
Plant Breeder, Agricultural Scientist
 Breakthroughs in mapping the genetic material of living things – finding
out where genes “ live” in the DNA and what they do – plus new laboratory
techniques, are generating huge amounts of data.

W h o c a n h e lp u s fin d o u t w h a t a ll th is d a ta
te ll u s a b o u t a liv in g o r g a n is m ?

T h e B io in fo r m a tic is t!
M e e t N o th e m b a K u la ,
a Bioinformaticist at the South African National
Bioinformatics Institute (SANBI) in Cape Town
B S c (M ic r o b io lo g y ),
B S c H o n s (M ic r o b io lo g y ),
M S c (M ic r o b io lo g y ),
M S c (B io in f o r m a t ic s )

… the biggest
challenge of the job:
“Making sure what you’re
doing hasn’t already been done -
keeping up with the developments
in this domain!”

… career satisfaction:
“R esearching issues that will
benefit people.”

W h a t d o e s N o th e m b a d o ?
Bioinformaticists are usually experts in both biology and computer
science. With this combined knowledge they develop new software to
make sense of all the biological data that has become available.
They can, for instance, find specific genes in bacteria and plants or other
living things. Nothemba is working with other bioinformaticists from
around the world to find a way to cut out the specific stretch of DNA of
the malaria parasite which causes the disease. If this was removed, it
could reduce the number of people infected and dying from malaria.

W h a t d o I n e e d to b e a b io in fo r m a tic is t?
C h a r a c t e r i s t i c s : Attention to detail, ability to work independently,
and to integrate and acquire new skills fast
I m p o r t a n t s c h o o l s u b j e c t s : Biology, Mathematics, Physical Science
Q u a lific a tio n s :
BSc - Applied Biotechnology/Biotechnology/Biochemistry/Microbiology/
Molecular and Cellular Biology or similar combined with a post-graduate
university qualification in Bioinformatics or one of the national courses
presented at a node of the National Bioinformatics Network.

W h e r e c a n I g e t a jo b a s a b io in fo r m a tic is t?
Medical Research Council, South African National Bioinformatics Institute
(SANBI), various universities, some pharmaceutical multinationals

R e la te d c a r e e r s :
Genomics, genome technology, software developing, pathogen genomics,
bioinformatics analyst.

science and technology

Department:
Science and Technology
REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
… the most common
misconception:
“That you need to be
a hard core computer
programmer and that
it is impossible to learn
these skills if you come
from a biological
background.”
 Although the world’s population continues to grow, the amount
of land available to grow crops for food remains the same.

Who can help us grow

more and “better” crops
to keep feeding the world?
The Plant Breeder!
Meet J.D. Rossouw,
a Plant Breeder at Monsanto
in Gauteng BSc (Agric),
MSc (Plant Breeding/Genetics),
currently enrolled for PhD
(Plant Breeding/Plant Pathology)

…the biggest
challenge of the job:
“Commercially-speaking, to stay ahead of the
competition!”

…career satisfaction:
“To stand alongside a farmer who has experienced
the benefits of one of our products.”

… a common misconception:
“That I’m a farmer!”

What does J.D. do?

J.D.’s job is to develop new, improved
types of maize that produce more and
better cobs, cope better with stress and
can resist diseases that infect the maize.
He does this by selecting maize plants
with these characteristics and breeds
them. This results in the genetic “recipe”
of the plants being changed and
improved. Once these “hybrids” have
been fully tested, which can take many years, they are sold to farmers.

Most plant breeders specialise in one crop only, and in J.D.’s case, this is maize. To
do his job he has to understand the science behind plant breeding, the growing
conditions of maize in South Africa, the agricultural market and the needs of those
who use or eat the maize. He also has to predict how these factors will change in
the next ten years.

What do I need to be a plant breeder?

Characteristics: Passion for working outdoors; patience, as it can take five to
seven years before a hybrid is ready to be sold; an ability to work systematically,
independently and in teams
Important school subjects: Biology, Mathematics, Physical Science
Qualifications:
BSc – Natural Sciences/Biological and Life Sciences/Microbiology/Molecular
and Cell Biology/Agriculture or similar

Where can I get a job as a plant breeder?

Private, commercial seed companies (international and local) such as Monsanto,
Pannar, Pioneer, Syngenta and various smaller companies, public research
institutes and universities

Related careers:
Plant Pathologist, Plant Geneticist, Plant Biotechnologist, Genomics
Drought and plant diseases are two of the biggest problems we face in
feeding the continent, as they can drastically limit the amount of food produced.

Who can help us change and improve living things,

such as plants, so they can survive better in
droughts and fight diseases?
The Plant Molecular Biologist!
Meet Ndiko Ludidi,
a Plant Molecular Biologist
at the University of Stellenbosch
BSc (Biochemistry and Microbiology),
BSc Hons (Biochemistry),
MSc (Biochemistry), PhD (Biochemistry)

… the biggest
challenge of the job:
“Not being able to track progress visually.
You are working with DNA, RNA and proteins –
you do not know whether you have successfully
isolated DNA until you get to the results – months later.”
… career satisfaction:
“My work could ultimately benefit
a whole lot of people.”
..a common misconception:
“That I am into manipulating
all living things!”

What does Ndiko do?

Ndiko studies the DNA of plants, which
is the inherited material that is passed
on from generation to generation and
is found in almost all living things.
His specific job is to identify and
describe genes (a stretch of DNA) in a
plant that carry the code for specific
characteristics. He especially looks for
genes that can be used to improve crop
plants by making them better at coping
with drought and making them resistant
to fungal/bacterial infections. Changing
the genetic recipe of a plant in this way
is called genetic engineering. This can
often be quite complex because more
than one gene is involved in controlling
a characteristic.

What do I need to be a
plant molecular biologist?
Characteristics:
Patience, accuracy, curiosity
Important school subjects: Biology,
Mathematics, Physical Science

Qualifications: N Dip – Biotechnology; BTech – Biotechnology;

BSc – Biochemistry/Natural Sciences/Biological and Life Sciences/Biotechnology/
Microbiology/Molecular and Cell Biology/Environmental and Biological Sciences/
Chemical and Biological Sciences.

Where can I get a job as a plant molecular biologist?

Agricultural research organisations, universities, commercial seed companies,
research institutes funded by a specific agricultural industry

Related careers:
Plant Biotechnologist, Plant Geneticist, Biologist, Agronomist, Molecular Geneticist,
Plant Pathologist, Agricultural Biotechnologist
South Africa has a rich and diverse wildlife. Although wildlife can be used to make
money, it also needs to be protected so that future generations can benefit from it.
If we don’t look after it, some plants and animals could become extinct and be lost
forever. Who can help us understand how different plants and animals live together
and survive?

Who can help us manage and protect

our diverse wildlife?
The Conservation Geneticist!
Meet Paulette Bloomer,
an Associate Professor in the
Department of Genetics of the
University of Pretoria
BSc (Zoology and Microbiology),
BSc Hons (Zoology),
PhD (Zoology)

… the biggest
challenge of the job:
“I am not only a conservationist,
I also support sustainable development.
Balancing all the issues is not simple.”
… career satisfaction:
“Contributing in a small way to the under-
standing and protection of South Africa’s
rich biodiversity for future generations.”
..a common misconception:
“That using biotechnology in
conservation is about
‘bringing back’ species.”

What does Paulette do?

Paulette studies species of animals which
are in danger of becoming extinct and finds
out why they only live in certain areas and
how they are genetically related to one
another. For example, a type of mole called
“Juliana’s Golden Mole” is almost extinct and
is only found in small numbers at three
different places in South Africa. Paulette and
her collegues in the Zoology department are
finding out why only a few moles are left
and what has caused this (nature or man).
She will also see if the three populations
(groups) of moles at the three different
locations are related. One of the populations
may be completely lost because of urban
development – and Paulette will investigate
to see what could happen if this group of
moles is lost.

What do I need to be a conservation geneticist?

Characteristics: Passion for the environment, good communication skills
and ability to work in multi-disciplinary teams
Important school subjects:
Biology, Mathematics, Physical Science
Qualifications:
BSc degree with Zoology, Botany, Genetics or Microbiology
BSc – Molecular and Cellular Biology/Conservation Ecology/Natural and
Environmental Science/Biotechnology

Where can I find a job as a conservation geneticist?

Research institutions, universities, National Zoological Gardens, diagnostic
laboratories

Related careers:
Careers in biology eg Zoologist, Botanist, Microbiologist, Ecologist, Phylogeneticist,
Botanist, Conservation Biologist; Molecular Geneticist, Molecular Taxonomist,
Museum Scientist
 Amino acids are the building blocks of protein that are needed for growth,
health and reproduction. Plants and many tiny organisms can make these
amino acids, but animals have to get amino acids from their food. Scientists
found a very tiny organism with a built-in ability to over-produce certain
amino acids. This lead to a new way of making amino acids for animal feed
companies.

But who knows enough about these tiny

organisms and how to grow them in
enormous quantities?

The Bioprocess
Engineer
Meet Thomas Potgieter,
Technology Manager at
Bioproducts SA in Durban
BSc Chemical Engineering,
PhD (Bioprocess Engineering)

… the biggest
challenge of the job:
“Living in an undefined world.
Research is about not knowing.”
… career satisfaction: “The Eureka feeling.
The privilege of finding a solution.
…work environment:
“This is not a desk job. Junior bioprocess
engineers could spend a lot of time
in a plant and in the lab.”

What does Thomas do?

Thomas works at Bioproducts SA, which
owns the only lysine plant in South Africa.
Lysine is an essential amino acid needed
by pigs and poultry. It is made through a
fermentation process that converts sugar
into cells, carbon dioxide, water and lysine,
using a specific type of bacteria. Amino
acids like lysine are important because
they balance the protein in animal feed
and thereby increase the nutritional value.
Thomas’ job is to ensure that the fermen-
tation process using the bacteria to make
lysine, is as effective and efficient as
possible. He also researches new ways
to produce amino acid products for which
different types of bacteria are used.

What do I need to be a
bioprocess engineer?
Characteristics: Aptitude for maths and science, problem-oriented,
perseverance
Important school subjects: Biology, Mathematics, Physical Science
Qualifications: BSc Chemical Engineering combined with a Biotechnology
qualification

Where can I get a job as a bioprocess engineer?

Universities, research organisations, private companies such as SA Bioproducts
as well as smaller, entrepreneurial companies

Related careers:
Biotechnologist, Biochemist, Process Engineer, Analyst, Biological Systems
Engineer, Bioengineer, Industrial Microbiologist, Plant Production Manager

science and technology

Department:
Science and Technology
REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
..a common
misconception:
“That you have
to be exceptionally
clever to be a
chemical engineer.
You do have to be
exceptionally
committed, but
you don’t have
to be a rocket
scientist!”
 The South African Constitution states that every South African has the right
to sufficient safe and nutritious food. To provide enough food for our people,
we have to use our natural resources responsibly. If we don’t, we could lose
many of our plants and animals species.

Who can help us secure our food through

responsible use of our animal and plant heritage?
The Biosafety Regulator!
Meet Julian Jaftha,
Senior Manager:
Genetic Resources Management
of the Department of Agriculture
BSc (Biological Sciences)
BSc Hons (Microbiology)
MSc (Virology),
PhD (Microbiology)

…the worst thing that

can go wrong:
“Non-compliance to conditions set in a permit
could have a serious effect. It is our job to monitor
compliance.”
...the most common misconception
about the job:
“Some see my job as simply stating
“Yes” and “No” for genetically modification
(and that we mostly say “Yes”.)

What does Julian do?

Julian ensures that the gene pools of our animals and our plants are conserved and
used in such a way that our food supply is secured, now and in the future. To do
this, laws have to be made to protect the genes of those plants and animals from
which we get our food. For instance, regulations exist which determine what
genetic material (e.g. seeds) can be imported and exported. Julian’s team also
studies the indigenous seeds farmers are using in rural areas and the characteristics
these seeds have, for example a hybrid of a plant species that has adapted over
many years to grow in very dry conditions. They store some of these seeds in the
national genebank to make sure that the useful characteristics that these seeds
“carry”, are not lost.

Julian and his team also make sure that modern scientific advancements, such as
scientists’ ability to change the genetic make-up of a plant, do not influence the
safety of our food for animals and humans and are not harmful to the environ-
ment. As part of this regulation process, Julian works with independent experts
and other government departments to decide whether they will issue a permit
for field trials or to import a GMO crop. Scientists do not need permits for research
in laboratories.

What do you need to be a biosafety regulator?

Characteristics: Sound linguistic capabilities have to back up your aptitude for
science as you will draft laws and formulate conditions of permits; sound
communications skills and assertive qualities
Important school subjects: Biology, Mathematics, Physical Science
Qualifications: BTech – Biotechnology; BSc – Natural Sciences/Biological and
Life Sciences/Biotechnology/Microbiology/Molecular and Cell Biology or similar
Post-graduate degree and research experience in the relevant scientific fields
would be advantageous

Where can I get a job as a biosafety regulator?

Government, consultants

Related careers:
It is crucial to have a scientific background and therefore a microbiologist or
biotechnologist could progress to a career as regulator, which is not a career entry
point.
Worldwide, violent criminals continue to leave a trail of victims behind them.
But they also leave a trail of biological evidence behind in the form of blood,
saliva, hair, skin... Today we know that an individual’s unique DNA is found in
all human tissue. How can we put this knowledge to work in solving crimes?

Who can help us put the criminals

behind bars and set the innocent free?
The Biological Forensic Analyst!
Meet Arnold Greyling,
a Control Forensic Analyst at the
South African Forensic Science
Laboratories of the South African
Police Services (SAPS) in Pretoria
BSc (Human Physiology and
Biochemistry), BSc Hons
(Biochemistry) and numerous
applied training courses from
international forensics bodies

… a misconception:
“That, because we work for the SAPS,
we work for the prosecution. We are objective
scientists. Sometimes our evidence helps to find
people guilty and sometimes it helps to prove
their innocence!”
… the challenge of the job:
“You need to be able to rise above the
routine and realise that every case has
impacted on someone’s life.”

What does Arnold do?

Just like fingerprints, DNA can link a
person to a crime scene, because every
human has unique DNA. Detectives take
samples from the scene and supply it to
the forensic analyst at the laboratory to
identify the type of material, for
instance the type of body fluid that was
found. The analyst determines whether
the DNA profile of the crime scene
sample can be matched to the DNA
profile of a reference sample. The
analyst gives his results in terms of
statistical probability, for example,
there is a 90% chance that the DNA
profile found at the crime scene is the
same DNA as the profile in the sample
provided.

Forensic analysts are routinely called to

court to interpret the scientific findings
as objectively (neutrally) as possible.
It is also Arnold’s job to decide which
new, state-of-the-art technology and
equipment could be used to improve
the laboratory’s ability to produce
reliable results.

What do I need to become a biological forensic analyst?

Characteristics: High moral values and work ethics – you will testify in court and
write affidavits; confidence; sound time-management skills
Important school subjects: Mathematics, Biology, Physical Science, English
Qualifications: B Tech (Biotechnology); BSc with subjects such as Biochemistry,
Human Genetics, Human Physiology, Microbiology. Intakes preferred without
Masters degree or PhD. In-house training is compulsory and individuals will work
under mentorship before forensic case work is taken on independently.

Who employs biological forensic analysts?

South African Police Services, some small, independent contractors

Related careers and fields:

Biochemist, Molecular Biologist, Human Geneticist
 Smoking chimneys and chemical waste streams are side effects of
modern living standards. Can we find more environmentally friendly
alternatives from Mother Nature in the form of enzymes?

W h o c a n h e lp u s u n lo c k th e p o te n tia l o f e n z y m e s
in o u r fa c to r ie s , fo r n u tr itio n a n d fo r m e d ic in e s ?
T h e E n z y m o lo g is t!
M e e t B e th u e l N th a n g e n i,
Research Scientist at
the CSIR in Johannesburg
B S c (B io c h e m is t r y ,
M ic r o b io lo g y
a n d P h y s io lo g y ),
B S c H o n s
(B io c h e m is t r y ),
M S c (B io c h e m is t r y ),
P h D (B io c h e m is t r y )

… the future:
“Most people do not understand
the potential of enzymes! I believe we
will get to a future where enzymes will have
replaced chemical synthesis of products!
N o more chimneys with dark smoke!”
… career satisfaction:
“S ometimes you have to dig really hard into your
intellectual resources to get an enzyme to perform
a certain job. O nce you do – especially if
it has commercial value –
it feels great!

W h a t d o e s B e th u e l d o ?
Enzymes, which are a type of protein that
speed up biological reactions (catalysts), are
found in every living thing (plants, animals,
humans, insects and microbes). Enzymes are
made in the cells, according to their specific
genetic recipe. To work, an enzyme needs a
very specific target called a “ substrate” with
which it matches like a key fitting into a
lock. Like other catalysts, an enzyme does
its job without being used up or destroyed,
but being a protein, it is completely
biodegradable. Some enzymes found in
nature work at very high or low tempera-
tures. All of these factors make enzymes
good environmental-friendly alternatives to
chemical methods used for making products.

Bethuel’s research aims at finding and

making enzymes of the highest quality for
use in the pharmaceutical industry. He is
also interested in enzymes from extreme
environments (extremophiles) that occur,
for example, very deep under the ground
in the South African goldmines, for use in
chemical and food industries.

W h a t d o I n e e d to b e c o m e a n e n z y m o lo g is t?
C h a r a c t e r i s t i c s : Natural curiosity about all living things, good observation
and analytical skills, patience
I m p o r t a n t s c h o o l s u b j e c t s : Mathematics, Biology, Physical Science
R e le v a n t tr a in in g a n d q u a lific a tio n :
B Tech - Biotechnology, M Tech – Biotechnology; BSc – Biochemistry/Natural
Sciences/Biological and Life Sciences/Biotechnology/Microbiology/Molecular
and Cell Biology/Chemical and Biological Sciences or similar
N o t e : You need an MSc or PhD for higher positions in lecturing and research

W h e r e c a n I fin d a jo b a s a n e n z y m o lo g is t?
Pharmaceutical, food, brewing and agrochemical industries, research organisations,
universities, medical research institutes, vaccine producing companies

R e la te d c a r e e r s :
Biochemist, Molecular Biologist, Molecular Geneticist, Microbiologist,
Cell Biologist, Bioprocess Engineer
Many biotechnology based inventions with great potential for mankind are now
being developed.

Who can help protect these inventions, and

enable the research costs to be recovered so
that the South African economy can benefit?
The Patent Attorney!
Meet Sandra Clelland,
Patent Attorney and
partner at Spoor & Fisher
in Johannesburg
BSc (Biochemistry and Chemistry),
BSc Hons (Biochemistry),
LLB

… the challenge of the job:

“You are working with other
people’s intellectual property –
the responsibility can be daunting!
Also, it’s a job defined by deadlines!”

… a common misconception:
“That the job is glamorous.
It is a desk job, entailing loads of
administration and long hours.”

What does Sandra do?

Sandra helps clients in the biotechnology
industry to protect their inventions by
means of patenting. A patent is a govern-
ment approval to an inventor so that he
has the sole right to use and make profit
from his invention and can prevent others
from making, using or selling it for a
specific time period (usually 20 years).
Sandra usually has an in-depth discussion
with the scientist (inventor), for example on
how his HIV/Aids vaccine works, so that she
can understand the invention. She then
starts to write the patent specifications,
and if the inventor has enough money, she
may also do a local or international patent
search to make sure that the idea has not
been used before and is not obvious.
Sandra also manages the patent application procedure worldwide, as a patent
needs to be filed in every country where the inventor wants protection for his
invention. In some cases, protecting a patent also involves preparing a court
case for a patent owner who wants to take legal action against a patent
“infringer”, in which case a lawyer will be hired to work with Sandra.

What do I need to be a patent attorney?

Characteristics: Meticulous, ability to work under pressure, sound
communications skills
Important school subjects: Biology, Mathematics, Physical Science, English
Relevant training and qualification: BSc – Natural Sciences/Biotechnology/
Microbiology/Chemical, Molecular & Cellular Sciences/Biochemistry/
Biological Sciences, or similar combined with a law degree, such as an LLB

Where can I get a job as a Patent Attorney?

Major patent law firms with a biotechnology department, universities,
biotechnology investment and funding organisations, biotechnology
incubators, large pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies

science and technology

Department:
Science and Technology
REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
… career
satisfaction:
“Passing the patent
attorneys’ exams
was an absolute
highlight, as not
everyone passes on
their first attempt!
The job can be
financially
rewarding!”

Produced in Pretoria by:

Loretta Steyn Graphic Design Studio
Email: loretta@icon.co.za
Tel: (012) 804 1674