Guide on Bioprocess Engineering
                     BIOPROCESS ENGINEERING
Introduction
A bioprocess is any process that uses living cells 
to create a product, while engineering is the 
science of designing and building complex 
machines or processes. To that end, bioprocess 
engineering is the planning, construction, 
execution, and revision of the biological and 
mechanical processes required to create new 
products within the life sciences.
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Bioprocess 
Engineering
Engineering of this type can be expansive, given 
the complex nature of the intersecting scientific 
fields. Bioprocess engineers require advanced 
knowledge in and understanding of systems 
engineering, chemistry, biology, and government 
regulations.
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What does a bioprocess 
engineer do?
Employers may list a variety of duties for 
bioprocess engineers. Developing and revising 
manufacturing processes is a common 
requirement for the role. Bioprocess engineers 
are often tasked with utilizing their knowledge 
and skills in math, chemistry, biology, and 
engineering.
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Common bioprocess 
engineering
• Research into the production of new 
products
• Experimentation
• Process troubleshooting and 
maintenance
• Process evaluation
• Data analysis
• Report writing
• Laboratory equipment purchasing and 
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Which industries use or need 
bioprocess engineering?
• Bioprocess engineering and its practitioners are 
essential in every industry that relies on 
biological products. 
• While pharmaceutical companies commonly hire 
bioprocess engineers to help create and organize 
manufacturing processes for new drugs and 
treatments, they are not the only type of 
employer that may hire bioprocess engineers.
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Bioprocessing 
projects
• Data analysis of different biochemicals and 
monitoring their effects on viruses and bacteria. 
• Process evaluation in manufacturing or food 
processing plants by optimizing existing 
techniques to increase yields. 
• Investigate additives, preservatives, ingredients, 
and other nutrients to determine if they could 
enhance the shelf-life or quality of certain foods. 
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How much do bioprocess 
engineers make?
• The distinctly technical nature of the role helps 
ensure bioprocess engineers are extremely well 
compensated for their work.
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Education required to do 
bioprocess engineering
• Those interested in a career in bioprocess 
engineering will require at least a bachelor's 
degree in biology or chemistry. In addition, most 
bioprocess engineers go on to pursue a graduate 
degree. You also need experience in a laboratory 
setting. 
• A doctoral or master’s degree allows a person to 
become a senior researcher, who is free to 
design research projects and can supervise 
junior engineers in their daily work.
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Key challenges
• Some of the technical challenges are expensive 
processes, novel technologies, and sophisticated 
instrumentation and their control. To develop 
methods for rapid identification of new 
biochemical properties, immunogenicity, and 
efficacy of protein-based pharmaceuticals also 
requires improving the processes used for 
existing products. 
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Current trends in 
bioprocess engineering
• Expanded pharma facilities and biological 
product possibilities, but often with smaller 
markets
• Wider range of manufacturers producing 
biosimilars and biogenetics
• Improved efficiency of bioprocessing, with yields 
continuing to increase
Source: www.labmanager.com