 |
|
Biochemists combine the fields of microbiology, cell biology, genetics, chemistry, cell biology, and physics in their day-to-day work or experiments. Many of the remarkable molecular tools that allow us to analyze genes and proteins were developed by biochemists. |
 Biochemists use these powerful new tools to learn about the genome and the roles of specific genes and proteins. Some biochemistry professionals work to increase our understanding human disease processes and aging. Others focus on applying biochemistry to genetically engineer plants and animals, or produce useful products ranging from drugs and other pharmaceuticals to foods, biochemicals, and fuels.
What kinds of jobs do biochemists get?
Hot new growth areas for employment are in environmental and pollution control companies, and the biotechnology industry. Biotech companies use the advances in molecular biology to improve agricultural crops, develop new kinds of drugs, or harness microbes to recycle wastes. Many of the biotech companies use genetic engineering to accomplish their corporate goals.
Biochemists are also employed by county, state and federal agencies; or in the private sector, such as a vaccine company, a clinical reference laboratory doing tests for physicians and health departments, or a pharmaceutical corporation. Many industries require biochemists to ensure the safety of their products, such as food processing and the dairy industry. You can find more information about specific jobs and duties at:
 Careers in Biotechnology: a nice description of the many jobs open in biotech, with a brief description of the usual duties (Saludos)
American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
What do I need to learn to prepare for a career as a biochemist?
Mathematical ability, problem-solving and analytical skills, and curiosity are important traits for future biochemists. Those who hope to work in industry should broaden their educational background to include courses such as economics, computer technology, and business management. Good oral and written communication skills are critical; many scientists work as part of a team, write research papers or proposals, and have contact with clients or customers with non-science backgrounds.
Although there are many career opportunities for biochemists with a BS, many professionals hold either a Masters degree or a Ph.D. For this reason, individuals interested in careers in microbial or molecular biology should give careful consideration to graduate study. Research the different jobs available at the BS, MS, and PhD levels as a part of choosing your major.
About half of recent MSU biochemistry/biotechnology students have gone on to graduate school or professional school.
Majors you can choose in this field at MSU are:
Biochemistry (Adobe required)
Biotechnology
You may also want to consider:
Medical Technology
Clinical Lab Science
Microbiology
Links for further research:
National Center for Biotechnology Information: Some very nice tutorials about molecular biology and bioinformatics
Career Profiles of people in Biotech
Careers in Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology
Careers in Biophysics
ASBMB Undergraduate Affiliate Network
American Chemical Society Biochemistry page
MSU Resources:
MSU Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Typical tasks for Biochemists:
Analyze foods to determine nutritional value and effects of cooking, canning, and processing on this value.
Clean, purify, refine, and otherwise prepare pharmaceutical compounds for commercial distribution.
Develop and execute tests to detect disease, genetic disorders, or other abnormalities.
Develop and test new drugs and medications used for commercial distribution.
Develop methods to process, store, and use food, drugs, and chemical compounds.
Examine chemical aspects of formation of antibodies, and researches chemistry of cells and blood corpuscles.
Isolate, analyze, and identify hormones, vitamins, allergens, minerals, and enzymes, and determine their effects on body functions.
Research and determine chemical action of substances, such as drugs, serums, hormones, and food on tissues and vital processes. (O*NET 2001)
Common job titles for MSU Biochemistry graduates:
Biochemist
Chemist
Contract scientist
Laboratory technician
Manufacturing chemist
Preparatory technician
Research and Development chemist
R & D technician
Research analyst
Research technician
Quality control technician
|
