This area involves information about Proteomic Jobs, what Proteomic scientists do and where they get employed
What is Proteomics?
Proteomics is the overall study of proteins, and their structures and functions. All of the proteins in an organism throughout its life cycle are considered to be its proteome. Or all of the proteins found in a specific cell type in particular situations are referred to as the proteome of that cell type.
Proteomics is analogous to genomics but is much more complicated. The genome is somewhat constant. Proteomes are not only different from cell to cell, but change throughout it biochemical interactions with both the genome and the environment. In one organism there can be different proteome activity in various parts of the body, in different environmental conditions and at different life stages.
What Do Proteomic scientists do?
Laboratory research and analysis and computer modeling are primary tasks of proteomics. Gel techniques and staining are used to conduct 2D gel electrophoresis and analyze protein images. Mass spectrometry is used to identify proteins. Senior laboratory researchers work to develop RNA labeling techniques and generate analytical microarrays.
Protein profiling data is used in cancer research. Additional biomedical applications of proteome research and analysis include autoimmune disorders, Alzheimers disease, infectious diseases and cardiovascular disease. Researchers also use protein profiling for drug discovery and to assess effectiveness of treatment
What do qualifications do Proteomics scientists need?
Attention to detail and interest in molecular biology and biochemistry are essential. Laboratory skills, research experience and the ability to work with other highly specialized scientists are critical. Good communication is needed both within the team and with others. Excellent computer skills as research tools, ability to design experiments and recognize the limitations of such designs and the ability to integrate thought from multiple perspective are all valuable qualifications in this field. A proteomics scientist needs an awareness of ethical issues in the molecular life sciences.
What areas do Proteomic Scientists cover in their courses?
Undergraduate preparation should include a biochemistry or molecular biology major with a strong chemistry foundation. Knowledge of organic chemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology and advanced computer skills, calculus level mathematics and physics are needed. Research experience is an essential part of the undergraduate experience. Proteomics may be found in biochemistry or molecular biology or chemistry departments.
At the Masters level, coursework is likely to include Bioinformatics and advanced computer science and courses such as: Introduction to Microarray Data Analysis
Theory and Applications in Bioinformatics
The Bioinformatics of Protein Structure
Molecular Modeling and Structure-based Drug Design
What areas of specialization are available in Proteomics?
Proteomics specialties continue to evolve along with this emerging science. Each distinct phase of protein analysis or function is a specialty:
Protein sequence analysis
Cellular proteomics. A new branch of proteomics.
Research associates may specialize in the technologies used in proteomics:
One and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis
X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance
Tandem mass spectrometry
Reverse phase chromatography
Where do Proteomic Scientists work?
These highly technical and specialized scientists work at institutions with the financial capability of supporting extensive research. Proteomics research associates are employed at universities, research institutes, corporations. pharmaceutical companies or hospitals.
Jobs available to people without PhDs in this field are specific laboratory technician work, education, communication or sales and marketing, manufacturing, business development, or information technology.