Bioprocess Engineering

Bioprocess Engineers work at the frontiers of biological and engineering sciences to “Bring Engineering To Life” through the conversion of biological materials into other forms needed by mankind. Application areas commonly associated with bioprocess engineering include the production of biofuels, design and operation of fermentation systems, development of food processing systems, application and testing of product separation technologies, design of instrumentation to monitor and control biological processes, and many more. Like other engineering disciplines, bioprocess engineers are trained in the application of engineering sciences and problem solving techniques. What separates them from other engineers is their understanding of how every engineering field relates to living materials. With the rapid growth of biologically based technologies, bioprocess engineers are uniquely qualified to solve the problems of today and tomorrow. The demand for bio-process engineers continues to grow. They provide a bridge between the research lab and the economic, large-scale implementation of biotechnologies and food production systems.
Professional Organizations
Professional organizations bioprocess engineers can become affiliates of include:
Institute of Biological Engineering
American Society of Agricultural Engineers
Institute of Food Technology
American Institute of Chemical Engineers
International Society for Pharmaceutical EngineeringOpportunities in Bioprocessing
With its agricultural heritage and high technology industrial base, North Carolina and the U.S. provide a wide range of opportunities for the Bioprocess Engineer. Biotechnology- based applications are poised to leave the research lab and enter commercial production.
Over the next 20 years in North Carolina these industries are expected to generate up to $15 billion in annual sales and employee up to 100,000 North Carolinians. North Carolina Agribusiness ranks third nationally in terms of net farm income and provides 22.5 percent of the total gross state product. The U.S. food industry is currently employing 20,000 engineers from all disciplines and exceeds $400 billion in annual sales, and represents over 25% of all nondurable goods produced. Each of these provides potential career opportunities for the well-trained engineer with the knowledge, interest, skills and commitment to be a part of this diverse and increasingly important field.
Bioprocess engineers are employed in:
U.S. food industry
International corporations
Biotechnology companies
Government agencies
Private consulting firms
Agricultural commodity processors