Expert: Dana Krempels, Ph.D. - 6/12/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hello sir, I am Yogesh Bodhe a Computer Engineering student from India! I will complete my Engineering degree in coming July 2010! I want to do carrier & research in evolutionary biology! How should i plan my carrier in this field? Can Evolutionary biology & Theory of Computation work together?  What are the applications of Game Theory in Evolutionary biology? Would i get the opportunity to work in the field of Evolutionary biology?

ANSWER: Dear Yogesh,

Now is a good time for interdisciplinary research in the biological sciences.  What you do with your career will ultimately be up to you, of course.  But there are many directions you could pursue.  

If you are interested in both evolution and computers, then you might find bioinformatics, the application of computer techniques to study genomes, to be an interesting area.  The study of genomes is about the most basic and critical level of studying evolution, as it not only seeks to determine the function of various genes, but also to compare genomes across species to monitor changes and follow the course of evolution at the genetic level.

Gaming theory is a bit more tricky.  This would be more in the realm of the evolutionary psychologist.  But in any of these fields, you'll need to seek a higher degree (Master's or Ph.D. to really have a chance at guiding and being involved in original research.  

The key now will be to seek out faculty who have published research in your areas of interest, and then contact each of them via email to see whether they are interested in taking you on as a graduate student.  Your precise project will depend on what you and your major professor agree would be a relevant, interesting problem that incorporates the use of computers in the study of evolution.  Genomics and Bioinformatics seem like natural areas to me.

Good luck!

Dana

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks a lot for answering! But i am quite confused because carrier opportunities in evolutionary biology or bioinformatics are very less in India! Even for the post graduation most of colleges need bio as a subject at graduation level! as i am computer engineer i did not have bio as a subject! So it is extremely difficult to get admission for post graduation! Can i get opportunity to work on the live projects? Would you suggest some names where i can apply? I am going in right direction or should i change the way i think? Would you do me a favor please?

Answer
Dear Yogesh,

Unfortunately, I am not at all versed in what opportunities might be available in India.  Here in the U.S., a person who wishes to start a different career path after receiving a degree can take additional post baccalaureate courses in order to prepare for graduate school or other professional path.  I'm not sure how it works where you are.

I would suggest that if you are interested in evolutionary biology, you check some of the links here:  

http://www.gradschools.com/search-programs/evolutionary-biology

Go to the institutions' web sites and find faculty who are doing research in areas that interest you and just write to them as you have written to me.  These are all U.S. institutions, but they might well have connections in India that they will share with you, or at least be able to point you in the right direction.

You may also be able to find additional resources for degree programs here:

http://tinyurl.com/24hajwg

Don't give up!  Follow your passion, even if it takes a bit of searching and writing to those who can help you directly.  I hope this helps you get there.

Dana