Careers

Careers Advice

Career links

Biochemist

Interested in Biochemist? Click on the links below.

Biochemist Career Details

Biochemists study the structure and function of living organisms, from viruses and bacteria to plants and man. They are concerned with chemical processes or products and are involved in analysis, process control, product development and biochemistry research. Once biological problems are identified, techniques are applied to solve them at the molecular level. This approach is applied to areas like disease diagnosis, pollution control, and food and drink production.

Biochemists work in teams with other scientists using a wide range of experimental and analytical techniques. Biochemistry often involves preparing reports on the results of research; biochemists may present their findings at conferences and have papers published.

Many biochemists specialise in medical laboratory science. Others work in the chemical, pharmaceutical and food industries in developing new products, improving existing processes and ensuring the quality of production.

Experienced biochemists are often responsible for project management and leading a team of staff.

Working Environment

Working hours are 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Shift or part-time work may be available. Additional hours may be required during busy periods.

The work is laboratory-based, and often requires handling dangerous chemicals for which protective clothing is required. Those working in manufacturing may spend part of their time in production areas. Others, with management or marketing responsibilities, are usually office-based.

Biochemist Related Skills

To be a biochemist, you should:

have scientific skills and abilities
have the ability to think creatively and solve practical problems
have a logical and accurate approach to work
be able to undertake practical work safely
have good communication skills
be able to work in a team, as well as independently
have information technology skills
have financial and management skills.

Biochemist Career Opportunities

Further Career Information

If you would like to know more about a career as an Biochemist related facts, statistics, articles and websites.

Career Steps

Not quite sure about a career as a Biochemist? Try our step-by-step career guide to reaching your chosen career.

Career Courses

Not quite qualified to be a Biochemist? Take a look at Postgraduate Biochemist courses, Undergraduate Biochemist courses, our course browses or use our search form and find courses which will help you on your chosen career path.

What would you like to learn?