Biochemist
What is the work like?
Biochemists study the biomolecules and micro-organisms found in viruses, bacteria, plants, insects, animals and people. They apply their knowledge to areas like health, agriculture and the environment.
Your role and duties as a biochemist would vary depending on the industry you worked in. For instance, in the pharmaceutical, food or brewing industries, your work could include:
- developing new products
- monitoring production
- quality control
- checking the safety of existing products.
In a hospital, public health lab or research institute you would be involved in:
- providing a diagnostic service (carrying out tests on blood and other bodily fluids)
- researching the root causes of disease
- creating new methods of treatment.
In agriculture and the environment, you could work with water authorities, seed companies or central and local government. Your main duties could include:
- genetically engineering plants to create pest-resistant crops
- improving the quantity of crops
- developing and extending the shelf-life of produce
- monitoring the effects of pollution on the environment.
As a biochemist in education, you could work in universities, colleges, schools, or medical, veterinary or dental schools. At university level, you would often combine teaching with carrying out research in your area of interest.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You will need a degree in a subject such as biochemistry, biology, chemistry or a related scientific subject. Many employers will also want you to have a postgraduate qualification such as an MSc in Clinical Chemistry, or an MPhil or PhD. Increasingly, you will need relevant work experience before applying for your first job, which could be part of a sandwich degree course.
To get on to a science-based degree you will usually need five GCSEs (A-C) including science subjects, English and maths, and at least two A levels including chemistry. Check with course providers for exact entry details because alternative qualifications may also be accepted and some universities run one-year foundation courses for those without a science background.
During your degree course, you may be able to gain insight into working in a lab by applying for a 'Summer Vacation Studentship' (see the Biochemical Society website for details).
You may also get into biochemistry by working your way up from lab technician, and studying part-time for a relevant degree. Check the Laboratory Technician job profile for further advice.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you are working as a biochemist you will develop your skills on the job, perhaps as part of a company's structured graduate training programme.
If you do not already have a postgraduate qualification, you may be encouraged to work towards this or take exams for membership of a professional body such as the Biochemical Society.
In the NHS, you will usually start as a trainee clinical biochemist, which involves working towards qualifying as a clinical scientist. For more details, see the Clinical Scientist job profile and the Association for Clinical Biochemistry website.
You may be able to further your career and find development opportunities by joining an organisation such as the Biochemical Society or Institute of Biology. To join some professional bodies you will need an honours degree and relevant work experience.
Where can I go for more information?
9 Red Lion CourtLondon
EC4A 3EF
Tel: 020 7936 5900
Bristol
BS99 3EY
Tel: 0845 606 0655
London
EC1R 5HL
Tel: 020 7713 0214
London
SE1 2TU
16 Proctor Street
London
WC1V 6NX
Tel: 01206 796 351
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries can be between £20,000 and £26,000 a year.
- With experience, this can rise to between £32,000 and £38,000.
- A senior biochemist may earn up to £60,000.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would normally work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. With some services you may need to work shifts, and during busy periods you may work longer hours. Part-time work is also available.
Your work would mainly take place in a lab and you will usually be provided with a uniform to protect you when handling hazardous chemicals. In the manufacturing industry, you would also spend some of your time in production areas.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- a high level of skill and ability in science
- good problem solving skills
- the ability to think creatively
- accuracy and attention to detail
- a logical approach to work
- good practical skills
- the ability to follow strict health and safety guidelines
- good communication skills
- the ability to work alone and in a team
- computer skills
- financial and management skills.
What opportunities are there?
You will find job opportunities in healthcare, education and research. You could also work within the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, as well as in agriculture, food and drink production, and biotechnology.
Progressing in your career will often include moving into a team leader or management post, running a department or major section of a large department.
With experience, you could move your career towards research, sales and marketing, or scientific journalism.
Jobs are advertised in the local and national press, in scientific journals and by specialist recruitment agencies. You may also find the following useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open new window)
New Scientist
Nature
NHS Jobs
EMed Careers
We do not accept responsibility for the content of external sites.
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