Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Biochemists study science to explain life processes in physical and chemical terms. They deal with chemical changes occurring in live matter, including changes in DNA, which is commonly called molecular biology. In this field a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree is required, with emphasis placed on post-graduate education, including medical school. Coursework includes all the sciences: biology, genetics, oncology, physics, chemistry as well as electives in a chosen specialty.

Laboratory research is a main component of the work and requires being detail oriented, focused and analytical. Biochemists work in a variety of industries from food production and processing, to drug manufacturing as well as chemical and petroleum industries. They research to create new drugs, or find new ways to solve problems.

Molecular biologists analyze data, and often work in teams, so communication skills are a must. Patience and self-discipline are helpful characteristics as the research can be demanding and take a long time to display results. Biochemists with a Bachelor’s degree are paid around *$57,000 annually.