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There's no doubt that biotechnology can offer someone a diverse career. In fact, even people without science degrees can find it a very rewarding life.

"As someone who promotes careers in biotechnology, I find it rewarding because we promote careers, training, and skills development to those who are going to discover the cure for cancer or a new alternative energy source," says Siobhan Williams. She works in marketing and communications for a biotechnology company. "I am not a scientist but I can help those who are or want to be."

For those actively employed as scientists in the field, like Catherine Rodriguez and Beth Biederman, the work itself has even more meaning. And what they do can contribute to making a great impact on our world.

Rodriguez is a microbiologist with the U.S. Army. Taking on that role has made a big difference in her life.

"Being a microbiologist has changed my life drastically," she says. "I decided that I wanted to further my career in this field so I enrolled in a master's program at Johns Hopkins University. I am willing to put all other personal aspirations on hold until I complete the program."

Clearly, the work she does matters. And it matters not only to her, but also to people who don't even know her. The implications of much of what she does may not be felt for years.

"Social importance plays a significant role in what I do. My work is changing the world in that what I do in the lab will someday be transitioned to another laboratory," she explains. "The protocols I am writing and developing will set a standardized and quality-assured program that will aid other government agencies and private industries."

Biederman, meanwhile, works in microbiology research and development. She also has the opportunity to change the world, although on a level more important to individuals.

"I work on a sexually transmitted disease diagnostic project, which does have social impacts," she says. "People who are infected with STDs need to know as soon as possible in order to get properly treated so they don't pass it on to other people. I wouldn't say my work could change the world, but it certainly changes individual lives dramatically."

Whether helping potential scientists reach their goals or working to come up with solutions to make all of our lives better, those in biotechnology find their careers fulfilling despite the challenges they may face.

"The hardest and most frustrating part of my job is being involved in an integral project," says Biederman. "As a microbiologist, I provide organisms for a variety of projects, but I am on the periphery of the project. So when/if the project is recognized for accomplishments, I typically am not included since I am not a main part of the team.

"The most satisfying part is being involved with many teams and interacting with a great variety of people."

For Rodriguez, the hardest part of her job is the need to bring in new business and write proposals for additional funding opportunities.

"Now that I have decided to pursue a master's degree in biotechnology, I am hoping that the knowledge I obtain will serve as a stepping stone in broadening my biology horizons," she says.