Biochemist

These scientists work in an office and laboratory setting. This is typically a full-time position with a Monday-Friday work schedule. You may work more hours if meeting deadlines, or if an experiment is time-sensitive.

They use technology such as computer modeling to analyze living things and their components. This might be DNA or proteins that help keep bodies healthy.

• Create and lead experiments in the lab. 
• Read work done by other scientists, so you are knowledgeable about trends in your field.
• Write grants for funding, or support a grant writer in your organization.
• Write reports and papers about your experiments and submit to publishers.
• Use experiments to learn more about DNA, drug uses, creating synthetic compounds, or other biological questions.

There are two main fields of both Biochemistry and Biophysics: Basic Research and Applied Research.

Basic Research is concerned with learning for learning’s sake. They want to improve the level of knowledge humans have. These scientists will often work for public universities or colleges. The questions being answered by the research are created by the scientist. 

Applied Research answers specific questions. It is often used to produce products. These can help a farmer with their crops, a new treatment for a disease, or even finding faster ways to create biofuels – fuel made from plants. The questions the scientist is trying to answer is assigned by a company or other private entity.

SOFT SKILLS

• Able to communicate orally, but more emphasis on written communication
• Logical reasoning – able to figure an answer out by using available data, without being told a specific answer.
• Creativity – able to look at problems in new ways.
• Active learning and a strong desire to learn more
• Strong questioning skills

TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Strong computer skills – scientific software and graphic imaging software such as Adobe Photoshop
• Database and spreadsheet knowledge
• Intermediate computer programming skills are needed – Python and Perl

• Pharmaceutical/Medical Manufacturing
• Colleges/Universities or other school settings
• Technical Consulting Services – Helping companies sell their products

Becoming a biochemist means earning a Ph.D. This means you will be in school for six years before you even start your Ph.D.! Doctorate programs for biochemistry take four to six years. This means you could attend school for almost twelve years.

After earning your doctorate, it will likely take you up to two years before you find a permanent job. You will need to work and support your education during this time – it can take almost 14 years to become a Biochemist.

• As a science, Biochemistry is always evolving. Some trends evolving:
• Using 3D modelling to explore DNA and organisms
• Identifying gene therapies for disease and other health problems
• Exploring biological based solutions for environmental problems.

• Exploring anatomy and the inner workings of organisms
• Biochemists often loved science classes as kids
• Asking a lot of questions about everything – especially “How?” and “Why?” questions.