The percentage of women in the field of biotechnology varies by country and region. According to a 2020 report by UNESCO, the global average of women working in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, including biotechnology, is around 28% and according to a report by the Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises (ABLE), the percentage of women in the biotechnology industry in India is estimated to be around 30%.

This percentage includes women who are working in research, development, manufacturing, sales, and management roles in the biotechnology industry.

The job prospects for women vary significantly depending on the industry, country, and cultural context.

In India, the job prospects for women have improved in recent years due to a number of factors, such as increased education and training, government policies promoting gender diversity, and greater awareness of gender equality issues. We are seeing a good spike in the ratio of women pursuing higher studies.

Women are now seen in leadership roles more as compared to the past. Also, organisations promoting gender diversity and inclusion has added to the women workforce into their systems.

Rising opportunties

Research and Development: According to a report by the Indian Brand Equity Foundation, women constitute approximately 30% of the total workforce in the research and development sector in biotechnology.

Pharmaceutical and Healthcare: The pharmaceutical and healthcare sector in biotechnology is another significant employer of women. According to a report by the Confederation of Indian Industry, women constitute approximately 40% of the total workforce in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector in biotechnology.

Agriculture and Environment: The agriculture and environment sector in biotechnology is also emerging as a significant employer of women. According to a report by the National Biotechnology Development Strategy, women constitute approximately 30% of the total workforce in the agriculture and environment sector in biotechnology.

Academia and Education: Academia and education is another sector where women are increasingly finding job opportunities in biotechnology. According to a report by the Indian Journal of Science and Technology, women constitute approximately 40% of the total faculty in biotechnology departments in various academic institutions in India.

Overall, it can be concluded that the biotechnology industry in India is offering numerous job opportunities for women across different sectors, and the trend is expected to continue in the coming years. 

Adding support & flexibility

Here are some ways in which addressing the needs of women can improve work-life integration-

• Providing flexibility can help women to balance work and family responsibilities more effectively.
• Creating a supportive work culture which includes initiatives such as mentorship programs, diversity and inclusion training, and family-friendly policies.
• Addressing gender bias and stereotypes in the workplace can help to create a more equitable and supportive environment for women.
• Providing opportunities for career development

Biotech industry requires multidisciplinary knowledge and managing skilled professionals.

Providing opportunities like mentorship, coaching to be assertive, training in leading and managing within organisations is important for both personal and professional growth.

Even organisations like BIO has now come up with BIOequality Agenda to support women in Biotech and Health Industry.