Biochemist Job Description: Duties, Education, Training and Certification Requirements, Job Outlook and Salary
Submitted by: Gypsy Santiago
Job Overview: Biochemistry involves studying the chemistry of all living things. Professionals in this field study the complex chemical reactions and combinations involved in growth, reproduction, heredity and metabolism. Their work involves plenty of research, problem-solving and developing new processes and products. They find work in various industries, including agriculture, crime labs, pharmaceutical companies and hospitals, among others. Biochemists may specialize in a particular study, such as viruses and bacteria. Others work in universities, nonprofit research centers or serve as freelance consultants for various industries.
Education, Training and Knowledge Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry or chemistry, followed by specialized training in graduate school is the typical educational requirements for a career in this field. Many begin their career as research assistants or biochemist technicians. Research and teaching positions would require a doctoral degree in biochemistry. If a position involves research about human beings or pharmaceuticals, one should obtain a degree of doctor of medicine (M.D.).
Skills & Abilities: To become successful in biochemistry, one should possess excellent problem-solving skills, excellent written and verbal communication skills; excellent critical thinking, reading comprehension and active learning; advanced knowledge in science and its principles; and proficiency in computer programs. They must also possess basic computer skills and excellent research skills since most of their work, regardless of industry, require research as part of their jobs.
Duties: The tasks of a biochemist include but are not limited to studying chemistry of living processes; researching methods of transferring characteristics from one organism to another; examining chemical aspects of formation of antibodies; developing and executing tests to determine genetic disorders, disease or physical abnormalities; developing and testing new drugs;
analyzing foods to determine nutritional value; designing and developing lab equipments; cleaning, purifying, refining and preparing pharmaceutical compounds before commercial distribution; as well as developing methods to use in the processing, storage and use of drugs, food and other chemical compounds.
A professional in this field also prepares reports and recommendations based on their extensive research; identifies vitamins, minerals, allergens, hormones or enzymes and determines their effects on body functions.
Earnings & Job Outlook: Biochemists find work in the brewing industry, health and beauty care, chemical manufacturing companies, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, research and lab, agriculture, hospitals, universities, government agencies and other industries. Employment growth in biochemistry is expected to increase as fast as average through 2014 as new developments in the field continues to drive job growth. In 2004, median salary in this field is at $69,000 per year. Those with Master’s and doctoral degrees receive higher earnings.
Gypsy Santiago is a professional resume writer and career search strategy/career branding coach with years of experience in assisting job seekers prepare for the job market. She helps create career-targeted resumes, provides useful tips about career transition, offers future career ideas and guide jobseekers about effective job search techniques.
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Word Count: 448 Date: Thu, 2 Sep 2010 Time: 8:02 PM
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