"A person needs to be a jack of all trades, and then he or she can become master of bioinformatics," Prof. K Kannan, dean, School of Biotechnology, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU)

Prof. K Kannan started his career as a scientist at the Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad. He has the corporate experience too. He had served as general manager and associate director of biotechnology at Ranbaxy Research Laboratories. He has been advising several industries about diversification into biotechnology as a consultant. He shared his perspective on the biotech opportunities with BioSpectrum. Excerpts:

Is bioinformatics very prospective?

In the next few years, the bioinformatics sector will definitely offer at least 7,500 job opportunities. This is because bioinformatics will act as an active tool for almost every segment of biotech research, whether its is drug discovery or even environmental research work. Its application can ease the burden of research work. At least bioinformatics can indicate the scientist about what is needed in their research and what is unnecessary to work on. I am sure that in the coming few years, this will be attractive to young people.

Where are the opportunities?

These opportunities will come from corporate houses, research institutes and academic institutes. For example, if you see the industry today, a lot of big companies are coming up in the field of biotech and bioinformatics. Big players in IT and pharma industries are showing good interest in this field, and this is the correct time for youngsters to move in to this industry. Development in this segment is taking place at a high speed.

Shouldn’t academia focus more on this subject?

Yes, since it has a potential for growth and its industry is in need of specialized people. Biotech has been added in CBSE syllabus for class 12th. The students are also showing good interest in it. There are many educational institutes that have shown active interest in imparting the biotech and bioiformatics courses.

What is necessary to be a good bio-informatian?

It requires a computer background. It would be a plus point if someone has biology background as well. But, bioinformatics requires quite a fair amount of knowledge of statistics and mathematical calculations. So, in my view a person needs to be a jack of all trades and then he or she can become master of bioinformatics.

What is the prime focus area in this field?

Systems biology is an up coming term in the field of research. It is a handy tool in the research work. Although bioinformatics is itself one of the most unique dimensions of biotech field as it offers the customized solutions, its application in the research work made its progress faster and result-oriented.

Will biotechnology replace chemistry in academics?

Biotech is not replacing any subject, though it is true that the academic institutions are talking more about biotech rather than chemistry.

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