Biochemists and Biophysicists

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Summary

Biochemists and biophysicists
Biochemists and biophysicists use fluorescent microscopes to study the chemical and physical properties of cells.
Quick Facts: Biochemists and Biophysicists
2010 Median Pay $79,390 per year
$38.17 per hour
Entry-Level Education Doctoral or professional degree
Work Experience in a Related Occupation None
On-the-job Training None
Number of Jobs, 2010 25,100
Job Outlook, 2010-20 31% (Much faster than average)
Employment Change, 2010-20 7,700

What Biochemists and Biophysicists Do

Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes such as cell development, growth, and heredity.

Work Environment

Biochemists and biophysicists work in laboratories. Most work full time.

How to Become a Biochemist or Biophysicist

Biochemists and biophysicists need a Ph.D. to work in independent research and development. Most Ph.D. holders begin their careers in a temporary postdoctoral research position that typically lasts 2 to 3 years. Bachelor’s and master’s degree holders qualify for some entry-level positions in biochemistry and biophysics.

Pay

The median annual wage of biochemists and biophysicists was $79,390 in May 2010.

Job Outlook

Employment of biochemists and biophysicists is projected to increase by 31 percent from 2010 to 2020, much faster than the average for all occupations. More biochemists and biophysicists will be needed to use the knowledge they have gained from basic research to develop biological products and processes that improve our lives.

Similar Occupations

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of biochemists and biophysicists with similar occupations.

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What Biochemists and Biophysicists Do About this section

Biochemists and biophysicists
Biochemists and biophysicists play a key role in developing new medicines to fight diseases such as cancer.

Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes such as cell development, growth, and heredity.

Duties

Biochemists and biophysicists typically do the following:

  • Plan and conduct complex projects in basic and applied research
  • Manage laboratory teams and monitor the quality of their work
  • Isolate, analyze, and synthesize proteins, enzymes, DNA, and other molecules
  • Research the effects of substances such as drugs, hormones, and food on tissues and biological processes
  • Prepare technical reports, research papers, and recommendations based on their research
  • Present research findings to scientists, engineers, and other colleagues

Biochemists and biophysicists also use electron microscopes, lasers, and other laboratory instruments and equipment to carry out their research. Biochemists and biophysicists use advanced technologies to conduct scientific experiments and analysis. For example, they use computer modeling software to determine the three-dimensional structures of proteins and other molecules. Biochemists and biophysicists involved in biotechnology research use chemical enzymes to synthesize recombinant DNA.  

Most biochemists and biophysicists work on teams. Research projects are often interdisciplinary, and biochemists and biophysicists frequently work with experts in other fields, such as physics, chemistry, computer science, and engineering.

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

Biochemists involved in basic research may study the genetic mutations in organisms that lead to cancer and other diseases. Others may study the evolution of plants and animals to understand how genetic traits are carried through successive generations.

Biophysicists may conduct basic research to learn how nerve cells communicate or how proteins work. Biochemists and biophysicists who conduct basic research typically must submit written grant proposals to colleges and universities, private foundations, and the federal government to get the money they need for their research.

Biochemists and biophysicists who do applied research develop products and processes that improve our lives. For example, in medicine, biochemists and biophysicists develop tests used to detect diseases, genetic disorders, and other illnesses. They also develop new drugs and medications, such as those used to treat cancer or Alzheimer’s disease.

Applied research in biochemistry and biophysics has many uses outside of medicine. In agriculture, biochemists and biophysicists develop genetically engineered crops that are more resistant to drought, disease, insects, and other afflictions. Biochemists and biophysicists also develop alternative fuels, such as biofuels—renewable energy sources from plants. In addition, they develop ways to protect the environment and clean up pollution.

Many people with a biochemistry background become professors and teachers. For more information, see the profile on postsecondary teachers.

Work Environment About this section

Biochemists and biophysicists
Most biochemists and biophysicists work in laboratories.

Biochemists and biophysicists held about 25,100 jobs in 2010. The industries employing the largest numbers of biochemists and biophysicists in 2010 were as follows:

Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences44%
Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing22
Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state, local, and private14

Biochemists and biophysicists typically work in laboratories and offices to conduct experiments and analyze the results. Those who work with dangerous organisms or toxic substances in the laboratory must follow safety procedures to avoid contamination.

Most biochemists and biophysicists work full time and keep regular hours.

How to Become a Biochemist or Biophysicist About this section

Biochemists and biophysicists
Biochemists and biophysicists need a Ph.D. to work in independent research and development positions.

Biochemists and biophysicists need a Ph.D. to work in independent research and development positions. Most Ph.D. holders begin their careers in a temporary postdoctoral research position, which typically lasts 2 to 3 years. Bachelor’s and master’s degree holders are qualified for some entry-level positions in biochemistry and biophysics.  

Education

Most Ph.D. holders in biochemistry and biophysics have bachelor’s degrees in biochemistry or a related field, such as biology, chemistry, physics, or engineering. Many schools have bachelor's degree programs in biochemistry, but few schools have bachelor's degree programs in biophysics. In addition to completing required courses in biology and chemistry, students must typically take courses in mathematics, physics, and computer science. Courses in mathematics and computer science are important for biochemists and biophysicists, who must be able to do complex data analysis.

Most bachelor's degree programs include required laboratory coursework. Additional laboratory coursework is excellent preparation for graduate school or for getting an entry-level position in industry. Students also can gain valuable laboratory experience through internships with prospective employers such as pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturers.

Ph.D. programs typically include 2 years of advanced coursework in topics such as toxicology, genetics, and proteomics (the study of proteins). Graduate students also spend a lot of time conducting laboratory research. It typically takes 4 to 6 years to earn a doctoral degree in biochemistry or biophysics.

Training

Most biochemistry and biophysics Ph.D. holders begin their careers in a temporary postdoctoral research position, which typically lasts 2 to 3 years. During their postdoctoral appointment, they work with experienced scientists as they continue 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 get a permanent position doing basic research, especially for those seeking a permanent college or university faculty position.

Important Qualities

Analytical skills. Biochemists and biophysicists must be able to conduct scientific experiments and analyses with accuracy and precision.

Critical-thinking skills. Biochemists and biophysicists draw conclusions from experimental results through sound reasoning and judgment.

Interpersonal skills. Biochemists and biophysicists typically work on research teams and need to be able to work well with others toward a common goal. Many also serve as team leaders and must be able to motivate and direct other team members.

Math skills. Biochemists and biophysicists regularly use complex equations and formulas in their work, and they need a broad understanding of mathematics, including calculus and statistics.

Perseverance. Scientific research involves substantial trial and error, and biochemists and biophysicists must not become discouraged in their work.

Problem-solving skills. Biochemists and biophysicists use scientific experiments and analysis to find solutions to complex scientific problems.

Speaking skills. Biochemists and biophysicists frequently give presentations and must be able to explain their research to others.

Writing skills. Biochemists and biophysicists write memos, reports, and research papers that explain their findings.

Advancement

Biochemists and biophysicists typically receive greater responsibility and independence in their work as they gain experience. They may lead research teams and have control over the direction and content of projects.

Some biochemists and biophysicists move into managerial positions—often as natural sciences managers. Those who pursue management careers spend much of their time on administrative tasks, such as preparing budgets and schedules. For more information, see the profile on natural sciences managers.

Pay About this section

Biochemists and Biophysicists

Median annual wages, May 2010

Biochemists and Biophysicists

$79,390

Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations

$58,530

Total, All Occupations

$33,840

 

The median annual wage of biochemists and biophysicists was $79,390 in May 2010. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $43,050, and the top 10 percent earned more than $142,420.

Median annual wages in the industries employing the most biochemists and biophysicists in May 2010 were:

Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing$84,970
Research and development in the physical,
engineering, and life sciences
             83,590
Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state,
local, and private
             50,760

Most biochemists and biophysicists work full time and keep regular hours.

Job Outlook About this section

Biochemists and Biophysicists

Percent change in employment, projected 2010-20

Biochemists and Biophysicists

31%

Life, Physical, and Social Science Occupations

16%

Total, All Occupations

14%

 

Employment of biochemists and biophysicists is projected to increase by 31 percent from 2010 to 2020, much faster than the average for all occupations. However, because it is a small occupation, the fast growth will result in only about 7,700 new jobs over the 10-year period. More biochemists and biophysicists are expected to be needed to do basic research that increases scientific knowledge and to research and develop biological products and processes that improve our lives.

The aging of the baby-boom population and the demand for lifesaving new drugs and procedures to cure and prevent disease will likely drive demand for biochemists and biophysicists involved in biomedical research. For example, biochemists will be needed to conduct genetic research and to develop new medicines and treatments that are used to fight genetic disorders and diseases such as cancer. They will also be needed to develop new tests used to detect diseases and other illnesses.

Aside from improving our health, other areas of research and development in biotechnology are expected to provide employment growth for biochemists and biophysicists. Greater demand for clean energy should increase the need for biochemists who research and develop alternative energy sources, such as biofuels. A growing population and rising food prices are expected to fuel the development of genetically engineered crops that provide greater yields and require fewer resources to produce. Finally, efforts to discover new and improved ways to clean up and preserve the environment will increase demand for biochemists and biophysicists.

Job Prospects

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

A large portion of basic research in biochemistry and biophysics is dependent on funding from the federal government through the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. Therefore, federal budgetary decisions will have a large impact on job prospects in basic research from year to year. Typically, there is strong competition among biochemists and biophysicists for research funding.

Most applied research projects that biochemists and biophysicists are involved in require the expertise of scientists in multiple fields such as microbiology, medicine, and chemistry. Biochemists and biophysicists who have a broad understanding of biochemistry and its relationship to other disciplines should have the best job opportunities.

For entry-level biochemist positions, strong competition is expected because of the growing interest in biochemistry and other biological sciences at the undergraduate level. Applicants who have previous laboratory experience, either through coursework or prior work experience, should have the best job opportunities.

Employment projections data for biochemists and biophysicists, 2010-20
Occupational Title SOC Code Employment, 2010 Projected Employment, 2020 Change, 2010-20 Employment by Industry
Percent Numeric

SOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program

Biochemists and Biophysicists

19-1021 25,100 32,900 31 7,700 [XLS]

Similar Occupations About this section

This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of biochemists and biophysicists.

Occupation Job Duties ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION Help 2010 MEDIAN PAY Help
Agricultural and food scientists

Agricultural and Food Scientists

Agricultural and food scientists work to ensure agricultural productivity and food safety.

See How to Become One $58,450
Biological technicians

Biological Technicians

Biological technicians help biological and medical scientists conduct laboratory tests and experiments.

Bachelor’s degree $39,020
Chemists and materials scientists

Chemists and Materials Scientists

Chemists and materials scientists study the structures, compositions, reactions, and other properties of substances. They use their knowledge to develop new and improved products, processes, and materials.

Bachelor’s degree $69,790
Epidemiologists

Epidemiologists

Epidemiologists investigate the causes of disease and other public health problems to prevent them from spreading or from happening again. They report their findings to public policy officials and to the general public.

Master’s degree $63,010
Medical scientists

Medical Scientists

Medical scientists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health. They often use clinical trials and other investigative methods to reach their findings.

Doctoral or professional degree $76,700
Microbiologists

Microbiologists

Microbiologists study the growth, development, and other characteristics of microscopic organisms such as bacteria, algae, and fungi.

Bachelor’s degree $65,920
Natural sciences managers

Natural Sciences Managers

Natural sciences managers supervise the work of scientists, including chemists, physicists, and biologists. They direct research and development projects and coordinate activities such as testing, quality control, and production.

Bachelor’s degree $116,020
Physicians and surgeons

Physicians and Surgeons

Physicians and surgeons diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses in patients. Physicians examine patients, take medical histories, prescribe medications, and order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests. Surgeons operate on patients to treat injuries, such as broken bones; diseases, such as cancerous tumors; and deformities, such as cleft palates.

Doctoral or professional degree This wage is equal to or greater than $166,400 per year.
Physicists and astronomers

Physicists and Astronomers

Physicists and astronomers study the fundamental nature of the universe, ranging from the vastness of space to the smallest of subatomic particles. They develop new technologies, methods, and theories based on the results of their research that deepen our understanding of how things work and contribute to innovative, real-world applications.

Doctoral or professional degree $105,430
Postsecondary teachers

Postsecondary Teachers

Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a wide variety of academic and vocational subjects beyond the high school level. They also conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books.

Doctoral or professional degree $62,050
Zoologists and wildlife biologists

Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists

Zoologists and wildlife biologists study the characteristics and habitats of animals and wildlife.

Bachelor’s degree $57,430
Suggested citation:

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition, Biochemists and Biophysicists,
on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biochemists-and-biophysicists.htm (visited October 02, 2012).

Publish Date: Friday, April 6, 2012