How to become A Biochemist

• Cellular Biologist
• Molecular Biologist

What do Biochemists do?

A Biochemist would typically need to:

• Plan and conduct complex projects in basic and applied research; manage laboratory teams, their workspace, materials procurement, and the quality of their work
• Isolate, analyze, and synthesize proteins, fats, DNA, and other molecules with the help of electron microscopes, lasers, and computer modeling
• Research the effects of substances such as drugs, hormones, and nutrients on tissues and biological processes
• Carry out fieldwork and inform research by preparing technical reports, research papers, and recommendations based on their findings; validate theories by carrying out peer reviews of written publications and presentations
• Present research findings and recommendations to scientists, engineers, and other stakeholders at conferences; collaborate with industry/academia to apply them and develop technical applications of new industrial chemicals, compounds, and processes
• Secure funding, write grant applications, act as a consultant in their field of expertise, and participate in the commercialization of new products
• Teach, demonstrate to, or supervise students (in academia) or train and supervise other members of staff

Most Biochemists work indoors in research facilities, laboratories, and offices alongside biophysicists to conduct experiments and analyze them. Some Biochemists, especially those working for environmental restoration firms, may travel to outdoor work sites.

Working in sales may require a substantial amount of travel. The dress code for a Biochemist depends on who you are working for, but you should always dress for safety, which means natural fibers, non-skid and closed-toe shoes, goggles, and gloves while in the lab.

Most Biochemists work full time and keep regular hours. In academia, hours are relatively standard at approximately 37 hours per week, usually from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Biochemists who work in industries may sometimes be required to stay after hours or go in on weekends to meet project deadlines, or to perform time-sensitive laboratory experiments. Most organizations offer flexible working arrangements to accommodate this. Biochemists based in the industry may have to work to fit in with shift patterns and commercial deadlines.

Biochemists work in different faculties or schools in academia, and in various functions of the business in pharmaceutical and chemical industries. A Biochemist can work independently through research grants and consultations. They can also work independently by writing articles for different scientific publications.

Biochemists are generally employed by:

• Commercial or Government Laboratories
• Commercial or Government Hospitals
• Commercial or Government Higher Education Institutions
• Public & Private Research Institutions
• Clinical Research Organizations
• National & Global Health-Related Charities
• Scientific & Technical Consultancies

Professional associations and organizations are a crucial resource for those interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more looks excellent on your resume to bolster your credentials and qualifications as a Biochemist.

• Contamination in the lab due to exposure to dangerous organisms and toxic substances
• Following established safety procedures
• Frustration and discouragement due to lack of equipment for cutting-edge research and ingrained trial and error in the substantial research
• Stress because of multitasking on jobs that require equal attention to safety and quality control
• Finding funding to carry on research projects, some of which run beyond five years

Practical laboratory experience and knowledge of the range of techniques used in Biochemistry will improve your chances when applying for research jobs. This experience can be achieved through a sandwich year placement in industry or vacation work. Try to gain experience in both academia and industry as it will help illustrate how the two environments differ and inform your future career choice as a Biochemist.

Most bachelor’s degree programs include intensive laboratory coursework. Additional laboratory coursework is excellent preparation for graduate school or for getting an entry-level position in the industry. Aspiring Biochemists can gain valuable laboratory experience by working for a university’s laboratories. Occasionally, they can also gain such experience through internships with prospective employers, such as pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturers.

Study at the master’s level is generally considered good preparation for those Biochemists interested in doing hands-on laboratory work. PhD-level studies provide additional training in the planning and execution of research projects.

Biochemists need a PhD to work in independent research and development positions. Most PhD holders begin their careers in temporary postdoctoral research positions. A bachelor’s or master’s degree will qualify you for some entry-level positions.

Any subject based in the areas of health, medicine, agriculture, horticulture, or biology should be appropriate, but a bachelor’s in the following subjects is particularly useful: Biochemistry, biomedical science, crop and plant science, ecology, environmental biology, microbiology, natural sciences, or pharmacology.

PhD programs typically include advanced coursework in topics such as toxicology, genetics, and proteomics (the study of proteins). Several graduate programs include bioinformatics courses, which involve using computers to study and analyze large amounts of biological data.

Some universities offer a one-year postgraduate training program in laboratory techniques highly valued by many private companies. Some let prospective Biochemists work towards a bachelor's degree and a microbiology-related certificate at the same time. Other universities offer a science foundation year as part of a degree if you have not studied science subjects to the level needed.

Certification in toxicology will prove handy, although it is not mandatory. A career as a Biochemist does not require a license.

Many Biochemistry PhD holders begin their careers in temporary postdoctoral research positions. During their postdoctoral appointments, these Biochemists work with experienced scientists to learn about their specialties or develop a broader understanding of related areas of research. Postdoctoral positions frequently offer the opportunity to publish research findings. A solid record of published research is essential to getting a permanent college or university faculty position in Biochemistry.

In academia, progression is reasonably well defined, with most researchers aiming towards senior research fellow or professor, leading research teams. You can achieve this through experience, successful research projects, and publishing original, high-quality research. Senior roles are accompanied by increased responsibility (i.e., securing funding) and additional teaching, supervisory, and administrative duties. In industry, Biochemists may progress towards senior scientific research or management roles, which are also accompanied by additional responsibilities, such as supervising and managing projects. Some Biochemists become Natural Science Managers.

Alternatively, it is possible to move into another area of the organization, such as business development, production, or a regulatory role. Biochemists may also be able to move into media or communications roles. Public understanding of science is a topical growth area with many new opportunities, and jobs for Journalists with a scientific background are becoming more widespread.

Another career path open to Biochemists, once they have the requisite experience, is consultancy. You could become involved in the technical and commercial evaluation of new ideas, products, and technologies, providing scientific expertise to projects.

Biochemists and biophysicists who have a broad understanding of multiple disciplines, including math and computer science, should have the best job opportunities.

The scientific and research skills Biochemists acquire while studying for their PhD are viewed as appropriate basic training for more senior research positions. PhD researchers in Biochemistry are also expected to possess a range of additional non-technical skills such as leadership management.

It is important for a Biochemist to keep up to date with new techniques, skills, and innovations. Hands-on experience with proper lab equipment, industry-specific experience, experience with microbial cultures, aseptic technique experience, and experience performing assays prove valuable. Support for continuing professional development (CPD) via events and industry news is offered by professional institutions. Forward-looking Biochemists attend academic conferences across the world and regularly read industry journals.

Biochemist jobs in the industry tend to be accompanied by structured training programs that may include completing placements in different functions of the organization, working with a mentor, and drawing up personal development plans with line managers.

All Biochemistry researchers involved in laboratory work are required to participate in training on health and safety and good laboratory practice (GLP). This training may include risk assessment workshops and control of substances hazardous to health regulations (COSHH) training.

What Do Biochemists Study?

Biochemists study the molecular mechanisms by which cells feed, divide, and grow. They study the chemical and physical principles of living things and biological processes, such as cell development, growth, heredity, and disease.

Multidisciplinary Teamwork

While Biochemists usually carry out experiments and research on their own, they are typically members of multidisciplinary teams and share findings and relevant information with professional colleagues. This is sometimes done at international conferences or through the publication of research papers.

Technologies Used

Biochemists use advanced technologies, such as lasers and fluorescent microscopes, to conduct scientific experiments and analyses. They also use x rays and computer modeling software to determine the three-dimensional structures of proteins and other molecules. Biochemists involved in biotechnology research use chemical enzymes to synthesize recombinant DNA.

Basic & Applied Research

Biochemists work in basic and applied research. Basic research is conducted without any immediately known application; the goal is to expand human knowledge. Applied research is directed toward solving a particular problem.

Biochemists who conduct basic research typically submit written grant proposals to colleges and universities, private foundations, and the federal government to get the money they need for their research.

Biochemists who conduct applied research attempt to develop products and processes that improve people’s lives. Experiments with animals or animal-based products may also be part of the research. For example, in medicine, Biochemists develop tests used to detect infections, genetic disorders, and other diseases. They also develop new drugs and medications, such as those used to treat cancer or Alzheimer’s.

Applied research in Biochemistry has many uses outside of medicine. In agriculture, Biochemists research ways to genetically engineer crops so that they will be resistant to drought, disease, insects, and other afflictions. Biochemists also investigate alternative fuels, such as biofuels—renewable energy sources from plants. Besides, they develop ways to protect the environment and clean up pollution.

Role in Sales

Some biotech companies need researchers in Biochemistry to help sell their products. These products often rely on sophisticated technologies, and having an expert explain them to potential customers might be necessary. This role for researchers may be more common in smaller companies, where workers often fulfill multiple functions, such as working in research and sales.

Biological Research

Biochemists working in biological research generate large amounts of data. They collaborate with specialists called bioinformaticians, who use their knowledge of statistics, math, engineering, and computer science to mine datasets for correlations that might explain biological phenomena.

Nature of Contracts

Many researchers of Biochemistry are employed on fixed-term contracts, associated with finite funding for particular projects. Most contracts last for several years. Permanent posts as Biochemists are highly sought after and are more prevalent within the industry than academia.

Branches of Biochemistry

Biochemistry branches out into Clinical Biochemistry, Analytical Biochemistry, Medical Biochemistry, Nutritional Biochemistry, Comparative Biochemistry, and Plant Biochemistry. Integrated master's qualifications, which can be studied at certain universities, combine more independent research, and are designed to lead directly to further postgraduate study such as a PhD.

Steps Forward

Biochemists in basic research should expect stiff competition for permanent research and faculty positions at colleges and universities. Biochemists with postdoctoral experience who have had research articles published in scientific journals should have the best prospects for these positions. Many Biochemists work through multiple postdoctoral appointments before getting a permanent position in academia.

If you stretched out your entire DNA from a single cell, it would be 2 meters long.

As a Biochemist, you don't work for yourself. You work for everybody else because the implications of your research can affect the lives of everybody else.

Science is social and collaborative and takes many great minds thinking about a problem in different ways to come up with a creative solution. Yet, discovery often consists of seeing what everybody has seen and thinking what nobody has thought!