Not offered at NJIT
Biological & Agricultural Engineering
Engineering applied to food, farming, and biological systems.
Core careers
Agricultural Engineer
Career Description
An Agricultural Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and improving farm technology, equipment, and systems to enhance the sustainability of agricultural lands. They employ their engineering expertise to maneuver pollution control issues, sustainable agricultural production, and natural resources management. They are also responsible for designing and constructing agricultural infrastructures, including warehouses, water reservoirs, dams and conducting research on farms, performing tests on farm equipment, performing environmental impact evaluations, and more.
Example Projects
- Climate Control SystemsDevelop systems to increase livestock comfort and productivity.
- Farming Tools and SystemsDesign equipment to grow more crops with fewer resources, like water and energy.
- Agricultural InfrastructureDesign and build agricultural infrastructures like water reservoirs and dams.
Relevant Skills
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
- Data Analysis
- Communication
Bioprocess Engineer
Career Description
A Bioprocess Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing biological systems (i.e. microorganisms, enzymes, biological materials) to produce food, fuel, pharmaceutical, and chemical products. They develop systems, processes, and equipment to convert biological and agricultural materials into products, construct bioprocessing facilities, improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of manufacturing bioproducts, and ensure work safety. They work in a variety of industries including Pharmaceuticals, Agricultural Research and Development, Food Processing, Fuel, and Biotechnology.
Example Projects
- BiomedicineCreate medical devices or synthetic materials for 3D printing organs, medical imaging equipment, and life support devices.
- Food ProcessingEvaluate processes in food processing plants to improve yields and investigate ingredients to improve quality and shelf-life.
- PharmaceuticalsDevelop vaccines, painkillers, and cancer therapies.
Relevant Skills
- Project Management
- Data Analysis & Innovation
- Communication & Collaboration
Food Process Engineer
Career Description
A Food Process Engineer is responsible for designing, operating, and optimizing food production from safety and quality to efficiency. A Food Process Engineer may work in a lab, office, or on-site at an industrial plant in manufacturing, packaging, quality control, or product development. They focus on optimizing industrial systems, conducting research to develop new food and pharmaceutical products, marketing products, designing manufacturing equipment, and more.
Example Projects
- Test ProductsTest new products to determine their shelf life, taste, smell, and nutrient retention.
- Design PackagingDesign packaging material for food items like meat, dairy, and products; testing non-plastic and recyclable packaging materials to meet product needs.
- Design EquipmentDesign manufacturing equipment to maximize food flow, such as machines for cutting vegetables or dispensing beverages.
Relevant Skills
- Project Management
- Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills
- Communication & Collaboration
Also open to this major
Pharmaceutical Engineer
Career Description
A Pharmaceutical Engineer is responsible for developing, manufacturing, and regulating pharmaceutical products. Their main focus is on the research, development, and testing of drugs, drug delivery systems, and the replication of natural compounds. They design facilities, equipment, processes for producing drugs, and packaging labels to improve distribution. They set standards and ensure that products follow protocols established by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and collaborate with scientists, manufacturers, and regulatory agencies to fulfill their responsibilities.
Example Projects
- Process Development and OptimizationDevelop a new oral solid dosage form (tablet or capsule) with improved bioavailability to achieve the desired drug release profile.
- Drug Delivery SystemsDevelop a novel transdermal patch for controlled drug delivery to optimize drug absorption.
- Quality Assurance and Regulatory ComplianceEstablish critical process parameters and perform validation runs to ensure regulatory compliance.
Relevant Skills
- Scientific Knowledge
- Analytical & Problem-Solving
- Communication Skills
Environmental Scientist
Career Description
An environmental scientist studies the natural environment to identify, analyze, and develop solutions for environmental challenges such as pollution, climate change, and resource depletion. They collect and interpret data on air, water, and soil quality, assess the impact of human activities, and provide recommendations for mitigating environmental harm. Environmental scientists often work on projects related to conservation, policy development, and sustainable resource management. They collaborate with governments, industries, and non- profits to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote practices that protect ecosystems and public health.
Example Projects
- Soil TestingAssess soil contamination levels and advise on land reclamation or agricultural practices.
- Sustainability AuditsWork with organizations to measure and improve their environmental performance.
- Pollution ControlDevelop strategies to reduce air and water pollution from industrial processes.
Relevant Skills
- Data Analysis and Interpretation
- Knowledge of Environmental Regulations
- Knowledge of Fieldwork and Sampling Techniques











