Biochemistry is a broad area that covers a wide range of career opportunities. In simple terms, biochemistry is the study of chemical processes within living organisms. Biochemists analyze the interactions of enzymes and nutrients in the human digestive system. They study the chemical events involved in immune responses or allergic reactions. They investigate the biological effects of new drugs and help develop more effective treatments. Some biochemists focus on genetics or stem-cell research. Some work in the commercial food or product industry, either in product development or marketing. Biochemistry has many applications in pharmacology, genetics, immunology, bioinformatics, environmental science, forensics, toxicology and food science.
Necessary Skills
Biochemistry is one of the “hard-core” sciences, so you should have an aptitude and interest in science and mathematics. Since research relies on computers and medical technologies, you should also be tech-savvy. Advanced level researchers must know how to design plausible experiments; often this includes designing and building the necessary technical tools and equipment. Attention to detail, the ability to work with a team and good communication skills are also good qualifications for a biochemist.
Educational Requirements
Many biochemists start their academic training in high school by taking advanced placement courses in biology, chemistry, calculus and physics. This will give you an advantage when you apply to college to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in biochemistry, biology or chemistry. This undergraduate degree may make you eligible for a job as a research assistant, inspector or technical sales representative. After working in one of these jobs, you may decide to go on and pursue a higher level of education and training.
Biochemists with a Master’s Degree might qualify for positions in commercial industries such as food inspection or product development. You may decide to work in the private sector in marketing, sales or administration. However, you will need a Ph.D. in biochemistry to participate in basic research projects. During your graduate studies, you will focus on the sub-specialty of your choice, and then obtain a post-graduate position in a research lab under the supervision of a senior biochemist.
Job Prospects
Many industries are scrambling to incorporate biotechnology into their research, development and marketing strategies in order to be more competitive. Likewise, public and private healthcare agencies and pharmaceutical companies are utilizing advances in scientific and technical knowledge in their pursuit of more effective therapies and treatments. Environmental safety is a public and private concern. This is all good news for biochemists.
In the near future, there should be job openings for biochemists interested in carrying out applied research for private companies dealing with health and beauty care, chemical manufacturing, food and drink production, and medical instruments and pharmaceutical development. Those without advanced degrees should also be able to find employment in these sectors.
The government funds many biochemical research projects through the Food and Drug Administration, Environmental Protection Agency and National Institutes of Health. Positions for biochemists within these agencies will depend on levels of federal funding. Biochemists will also find employment in hospitals, public health laboratories, cancer research institutes, environmental pollution control and public health offices.
Jobs teaching biochemistry at the college or university level and the chances of securing the funding to conduct independent basic science research are expected to become more competitive in the near future.
Salary
The average annual salary for biochemists is $86,580. Those in administrative or managerial positions earned the highest salaries ($111,130), followed by scientific research and development ($90,810). Positions at universities and colleges paid an average annual salary of $62,480.
Biochemistry careers offer many possibilities—basic or applied research, public or private sector industries, hands-on lab work, teaching or administration. There are jobs available for all levels of academic training, and the demand for biochemists should continue to grow. If you have an interest in biochemistry and the ambition to succeed in any of these fields, this might be the right career choice for you.