Abstract
This essay provides insight into the daily life of a scientist in biotechnology, drawing on experience gained from working in companies ranging in size from four to more than 80,000 employees. The basic scientific training in molecular biology required for the work is similar between academia and industry, but the way in which these skills are applied differs. Biologists in industry settings work as part of large, multidisciplinary teams. This requires relinquishing the degree of intellectual freedom allowed in academia but offers an increased opportunity to see the fruits of one's labor translate into products with the potential to positively impact human or environmental health.