Biological Technicians: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more

Biological technicians help biological and medical scientists conduct laboratory tests and experiments.

What do Biological Technicians do?

Biological technicians typically do the following:

• Set up, maintain, and clean laboratory instruments and equipment, such as microscopes, scales, pipets, and test tubes
• Gather and prepare biological samples, such as blood, food, and bacteria cultures, for laboratory analysis
• Conduct biological tests and experiments
• Document their work, including procedures, observations, and results
• Analyze experimental data and interpret results
• Write reports that summarize their findings

Biological technicians, sometimes called laboratory assistants, typically are responsible for doing scientific tests, experiments, and analyses under the supervision of biologists (such as microbiologists) or medical scientists who direct and evaluate their work. Biological technicians use traditional laboratory instruments, advanced robotics, and automated equipment to conduct experiments. They use specialized computer software to collect, analyze, and model experimental data. Some biological technicians, such as those who assist the work of zoologists and wildlife biologists, may collect samples in the field, so they may need the ability to hike rugged terrain or otherwise travel through wilderness areas.

Biological technicians work in many research areas. They may assist medical researchers by administering new medicines and treatments to laboratory animals. They may separate proteins from other cell material, and analyze data from an experiment.

Biological technicians working in a microbiological context typically study living microbes and perform techniques specific to microbiology, such as staining specimens to aid identification.

Biological technicians also may work in private industry and assist in the study of a wide range of topics concerning industrial production. They may test samples in environmental impact studies, or monitor production processes to help ensure that products are not contaminated.