M.S. Biomedical Sciences chances and career prospects

[rwsjyiy]

Currently in my second year as a research tech in a prestigious lab in my field. I have acquired broad technical skills from undergrad and my current position. I am responsible for many technical responsibilities (protein production, purification, and QC) as well as working on several projects as well as my own drug related project. I am already on one paper, with another one being drawn up and two more in the pipeline. I should be able to receive 2 excellent letters of recommendation and I have pretty good GRE percentiles (85, 83, and 80 for V, Q, an AR), my only caveat would be my GPA. It is a 2.8 and my only explanation would be that I was an irresponsible college student and I probably shouldn't have been a chemistry major. I want to know if anyone has any been in a similar situation and what was the outcome? Additionally if anyone has any advice during the application process (I am aiming for thesis based Master's programs), that would great. Finally is anyone working in the biomedical/biotech field with a similar degree? Were you hired for an M.S. required position or B.S. required position and what is your chance for growth within your company? Sorry for the bombardment of questions, not very many people around me who understand master's programs and degrees.

 

General Questions I wanted to ask this forum before I ask the main one: Does anyone have any insight into when would be a good time to have applications in for spring? The deadlines are November-December so I'm shooting for mid to late August. Is that too late?

I've heard mixed opinions about contacting PIs before applying, any insight? I'm hesitant because I'm applying for masters programs and if I get in I probably won't be allowed to be thesis track (even though that’s what I want).