More Biotech Jobs Seen

Jobs in California's biotechnology industry could more than double to 250,000 by 2015, according to a report released online this week by the state Employment Development Department. The report, "Under the Microscope; Biotechnology Jobs in California," highlights 36 occupations vital to the industry, from plant breeders to sales representatives. Each job is described by the type of training needed, wages, job outlook and types of skills employers want. Department spokeswoman Suzanne Schroeder said the agency's goal was to "entice students and workers interested in (a) career change to consider a career in biotechnology." California is the nation's leader in biotechnology, which includes everything from insect-resistant plants to new cancer drugs. More than 400 biotech firms employ approximately 100,000 Californians. The report is online at www.calmis.ca.gov/file/occmisc/biotechreport.htm