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Biochemist

Biochemist

Description

Biochemistry is the study of living things and organisms at the molecular level, mainly focusing on the processes that occur.  Biochemists study the chemical processes in living organisms, including DNA, heredity and cell development. They work to understand how certain chemical reactions happen in tissues and record the effects of medicines. The aim of a biochemist is to improve our quality of life by understanding living organisms at the molecular level. This can include running laboratory experiments to develop effective medicines or going out in the field to collect cell samples from animals and plants in order to understand how genetic traits are carried. Many biochemists study how pharmaceutical drugs and foods affect an organism's biology. Some also study how environmental toxins are metabolized, and how they may disrupt biological processes.

Since biochemistry includes all living things, it's a very wide field of study with a variety of uses in medicine, agriculture, and the environment.

Common Duties/Routines

Biochemists study cellular and molecular processes to increase our general understanding about them, or work on solving particular problems. Others try to discover how certain genes or environmental factors cause different diseases, and how to overcome or "turn off" the errant mechanism. Biochemists working in agriculture have to research ways to genetically modify crops for resistance  to drought or pests. Some work on researching and developing biofuels.

Regardless of the field of application, most biochemists perform many of the same duties. They plan and carry out  experiments to isolate, measure and analyse hormones, toxins and enzymes, and to determine the effects of substances like drugs, food and toxins on biological processes. They may also create new and advanced analytical techniques to detect pollutants and their metabolites, or to study biological processes. They also use computer soft wares to determine the three-dimensional structure of molecules, or use math to describe the chemical relationships between substances found in the environment and in the body. They also share research findings by writing reports, recommendations, or scientific articles, or by presenting at scientific conferences.

This field also plays a very crucial role in public health. Biochemists help determine the environmental causes of diseases and that information in turn helps policymakers eliminate or reduce risk, and potentially helps doctors treat the conditions effectively. But biochemistry is also vital to the many aspects of sustainability as well.

Some discover new ways to use the biological processes of plants and microbes to break down these pollutants. Some are working on solving the food crisis by developing inexpensive, high-yield, nutritious, and sustainable crops. Others study ways to turn the energy in waste products, crops, and algae into biofuels. Some biochemists are trying to develop artificial photosynthesis, a process intended to mimic the way plants derive energy from the sun, to develop solar fuel.

Required/Trained Skills

·Earn a bachelor's degree

Many careers in the biological sciences, especially in research or academia, require a doctoral degree, so a bachelor's degree in a relevant science major is a necessary foundation for an aspiring biochemist. Schools offer concentrations in biochemistry, molecular biology, chemistry and biology. Biochemistry majors may take course topics that include organic chemistry, genetics and cells. In addition to having a strong science background, students need to develop skills in computer science, engineering and math.

·Pursue a graduate degree

A PhD is typically required to work in this field, particularly in research or academia; however, some entry-level positions require only a bachelor's or master's degree. Colleges and universities have Master of Science in Biochemistry programs, and some master's degree programs provide students with a dual concentration, such as biochemistry and biophysics. Curricula usually require graduate students to conduct individual research. Students then use this research to develop their thesis, which many schools require for graduation.

While a master's degree may also be enough to work as a research technician, advanced research and academic faculty positions typically require applicants to hold a doctoral degree. Graduate students can find Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry programs. All doctoral candidates must complete a dissertation based on their original research. They may also take advanced courses that discuss metabolism, molecular biology and cell biology. PhD holders commonly begin their careers with postdoctoral research positions lasting 2-3 years.

·Gain sufficient experience

Once earning a PhD or master's degree, biochemists will begin to see the earning potential increase as they acquire more experience in their chosen field. Some biochemists may choose to specialize in a specific niche of their discipline. Alternatively, the advanced education required makes biochemists strong candidates for managerial or upper-tier administrative roles at their respective universities or companies.

Salary/Compensation

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) announced the 2012 average annual salary for biochemists and biophysicists to be $84,320. However, according to The Scientist's more recent Life Sciences Salary Survey list, the average salary for biochemists was $100,433 in 2014

Work Atmosphere

Biochemists work for a variety of industries and government agencies. For example, they may be required to analyse the effects of air, water, and soil pollution on people, wildlife, plants, and crops for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or Department of Agriculture. They may also have to observe and research the effects of drugs or food for the National Institutes of Health or the Food and Drug Administration. Many biochemists are also employed by pharmaceutical firms and companies dealing with food-related chemicals such as animal feed, agricultural chemicals, and food for human consumption, where they conduct research to understand disease and develop new products. Some work in manufacturing, energy development, or environmental restoration firms. Others work in hospital laboratories. They may also work as faculty, research staff, or teachers at colleges, universities, and secondary schools. Some also work for law firms, where they deal with cases related to science.

Most biochemists work indoors in laboratories and offices. Some, especially those working for environmental restoration firms, may be required to travel to outdoor work sites. Lab and field work can result in exposure to biological or chemical hazards which is why it is important to follow the established safety procedures in these situations.

Most biochemists work full time, and many work more than 40 hours per week. Employers, industries, and work environments can vary by the type of biochemistry practiced.

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