Biotech Career Profiles
Michael Bullock
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Michael analyzes the effect
enzymes have on denim. |
Senior Research Associate
Novozymes Inc.
Franklinton, NC
I've always been a hands-on-person and loved math in high school. So, it's not surprising that I eventually ended up in the science and math field. After finishing high school, I joined the Air Force. After leaving the Air Force I began working for a local manufacturing company and trained as a machinist, where I used my math skills and worked with my hands.
I really enjoyed being a machinist but soon found out that it was an unstable career. I started in the science field as a chemical lab operator in Novozymes and discovered how rewarding and challenging this career is. Although I do not have a degree in chemistry, I feel that was not necessary in order to work in an analyst position. However, I do recommend further education for advancement opportunities. Local community colleges offer training for chemical operators.
I have taken additional math courses and had the assistance of several excellent chemists and scientists as mentors, which helped my advancement. I progressed into a lab technician position in the textile area. In this position, we use enzymes in place of stones in the processing of denim. Traditionally, stone washing of denim used stones that gave denim the "worn look," but this causes excessive damage to the denim as well as the machinery. We analyze enzymes for activity and wash denim in the lab to determine the effect enzymes have on denim. Enzymes eliminate the need for stones in denim processing.
Currently, I am a Senior Research Associate and continue to enjoy my job because of the challenges you face when an experiment doesn't work. You constantly try to improve the methods and procedures which make your job more challenging and rewarding. My words of advice are to get as much "hands-on" experience and math courses during school as possible. Take advantage of opportunities for internships during the summers. Prepare yourself by attending college and taking classes your school's career and technology program. There are lots of opportunities to make great things happen in science. However, because of the ever-changing textile industry, you have to be versatile and willing to take on change and new responsibilities. With the focus on math and science in high school, you will have great opportunities in a multitude of jobs.
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