Is becoming a molecular biologist right for me?
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How to become a Molecular Biologist
Becoming an expert in molecular biology requires a lot of hard work, mental effort and dedication. Individuals who aspire to become molecular biologists have to possess excellent reasoning abilities, high intelligence, patience, discipline, and the motivation to conduct potentially breakthrough research.
The ability to cope with failure is also an important quality since success in research is achieved only after multiple instances of trial and failure. Individuals who want to become proficient in molecular biology usually have a passion for life and for making the lives of others easier through their research or academic work. Molecular biologists who work with students at universities require excellent communication skills, the ability to present difficult molecular concepts in a manner that will not frustrate the student, and a passion for teaching and mentoring.
The first step in becoming a molecular biologist is earning a degree in biology or a related field such as biochemistry or biophysics. Post-graduate studies are almost always required. They include masters and doctoral degrees combined with some form of research and participation in scientific conferences and meetings.
Some molecular biologists go even further in their career development and conduct post-doctoral research, which allows them to become recognized by their colleagues and achieve success. The study process is quite complex and requires the knowledge of basic concepts of physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics and even information technology. However, with enough dedication and motivation, one is able to successfully become an expert in molecular biology.