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Biotechnology is not actually a new concept but it has become a new industry around the world in recent years. Biotechnology is about using genetics to improve agricultural products. Once upon a time that meant the slow process of cross-breeding. Now scientists use high technology to map the genes they are interested in and a combination of traditional breeding methods and molecular techniques to achieve their goals.
Australian innovation has led much of the way in the use of these research techniques in areas such as crop breeding (new cereal and legume varieties, gene mapping and the use of computer technology for routine management of crop breeding programs), animal production (in vitro fertilisation, cloning and embryo transfer) and wine science.
Jobs – what and where?
Government research groups and industry bodies are key employers in this area. Researchers often work in collaboration with industry and universities to combine their knowledge and resources.
