Career opportunities in Stem Cell Technology Research
Stem cell research is considered as the future of modern medicine and offers one of the most viable career options for youngsters. The remarkable ability of stem cells to regenerate into additional stem cells or to differentiate into specialized cells like muscle cells, blood cells, or nerve cells makes them invaluable in medical treatment. Stem cells possess the potential to cure diseases ranging from diabetes to Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and even cancer.
So what does stem cell technology research involve? It is the advanced research carried out by researchers from various science backgrounds, to find new and efficient ways to treat various illnesses. Key areas where stem cell therapy can result in effective treatment are Orthopedics, Neurological conditions, Liver Diseases, Chronic Kidney Diseases, Autoimmune disorders, COPD and other Lung diseases, Cardiology, Ophthalmologic diseases, Infertility, and Cosmetic Procedures.
Stem cell technology is one of the most rapidly growing fields of science. Numerous scientists around the world and even in India are carrying out research in this field, hoping to develop new therapies based on stem cells. This booming field requires skilled and trained manpower, offering excellent career opportunities.
After Japan and South Korea, India is a major player in the biotech field, with Banglore, in particular the hub for stem cell research. There are immense opportunities for students with a large number of prominent research institutes, biotech, and pharma companies carrying out stem cell research. More than Rs. 1,000 crore is invested in stem cell research in India. Job opportunities ranging from lab assistants to scientists are plenty and highly rewarding.
Institutes like National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS), Pune, National Centre for Biological Science (NCBS), Bengaluru, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, and Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) Hyderabad provide skill training in this field.
Aspiring candidates from a life science background can take up certification courses in stem cell biology as well as obtain hands-on experience from research laboratories, before stepping into this field.
Stem Cell Market In India
The Indian stem cell market is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. Over the past few years, chronic diseases like neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and leukemia have become prevalent and have resulted in a high mortality rate. Due to the lack of efficiency of conventional treatments, they are now getting replaced by regenerative therapies.
With increasing investments in stem cell research by government and private organizations, stem cell therapy is expected to become the new elixir for treating various ailments. According to reports, India might become the fastest growing stem cell market in the world.
Major players in the Indian stem cell market include;
- Reliance Life Sciences
- LifeCell International Private Limited
- Cryobanks International India Private Limited
- Cordlife India, StemCyte India Therapeutics Private Limited
- ReeLabs Private Limited
- Stempeutics Research Private Limited and others.
Career Opportunities In Stem Cell Research
Numerous research positions are available involving stem cells both in India and abroad. Research laboratories working with stem cells frequently call for laboratory technicians, junior research fellows, senior research fellows, research associates, project coordinators, and research scientists. Aspirants can find jobs in clinical research also. There are many other career opportunities that involve working with stem cells, most of the students are unaware of. They include bioengineering researchers, biomedical research assistants, animal technicians, cancer, and immunology researcher. One can begin their career in stem cell research in production, R&D, quality, human resources, supply chain, or clinical research.
A stem cell researcher is entitled to grow stem cells in the research laboratory, study them, and edit them to produce the desired type of cells, like heart muscle cells, nerve cells, and blood cells. These cells could be then used to treat different illnesses. For example, heart muscle cells produced from stem cells could be transplanted to patients suffering from heart ailments, so that the injected cells can repair the defective heart muscle.
Educational Qualification Required
The minimum educational qualification required for finding a job in the stem cell research domain is a postgraduate degree in either regenerative medicine or in basic biology. B. Pharma, MBBS, B.V.Sc., B.D.S., or B.E. Biotechnology students can also find jobs in this field.
Starting Salary in Stem Cell Research
An eligible postgraduate can earn up to Rs. 30,000 per month in the beginning and those with a PhD can earn more than Rs. 50,000 per month. PhD holders can earn around Euro 25,000 to 30,000 or US$ 35,000 to 40,000 annually if recruited abroad.
Skills Required for a Career In Stem Cell Research
A stem cell researcher should possess the same basic skills that any other researcher requires. Aspirants should be really interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms inside a cell. Since they could be working on a project that demands a long time to get results, they should have real patience. It took 15 years to make bone marrow transplants safe and effective. So the aspirants must have a long term view. Knowledge of cellular and molecular biology is also required.
Employers also look for theoretical and practical expertise in;
- Regenerative Medicines
- Cell Therapies
- Cell Culture
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemical Engineering
- Cell Engineering
- Analytical Development
- Process Science
- GMP Manufacture
- Clean Room/Aseptic
- Tissue Culture
- Biochemistry
- T-Cells etc.
To summarize, stem cell technology research is a booming field with numerous career opportunities that offer high payment packages. Although it could take a few more years to fully realize the potential of stem cell therapies, stem cell research is already one of the brightest areas in biology that offer a promising career ahead.