Pathway: Science
Job: Biochemist

Job Description

Biochemists study the chemical composition of living things. They analyze the complex chemical combinations and reactions involved in life: metabolism, reproduction, growth and heredity. Biochemists do most of their work in the biotechnology field.

Necessary Education

Master’s Degree
Ph.D. often required

Helpful High School Courses

Advanced Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English, Computer Applications

Working Conditions

• Work regular hours in offices or laboratories
• Work may involve dangerous organisms or toxic substances and strict safety rules must be followed
• May have to work under pressure to meet deadlines required by government research grants

Salary Range

• 2003, Delaware average annual salary, $65,700
• 2003, Delaware average hourly wage, $31.59

• Bachelor’s Degree is adequate for some nonresearch jobs
• Master’s Degree is necessary for applied research or jobs in management, inspection, and sales
• Ph.D. is necessary for advanced research or administrative position

Personal Qualities and Interests

      You:

• Are able to work alone or as part of a team
• Like problem solving and extensive research
• Want to make a difference even if years in the future
  

Did you know?

• Many biochemists are involved in the Human Genome project--isolating, identifying and sequencing human genes.

Additional Information

• Occupational Outlook Handbook: http://www.bls.gov/oco
• Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology: http://www.faseb.org

  
  

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