What Can You Do With A Biochemistry Degree?

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If you are pursuing an education in biochemistry, you probably have a bright future ahead of you. But if you often get confused and have second thoughts about what can you do with a biochemistry degree, let us break it to you that the options for you are actually endless.

Stop worrying ‘what can I do with a biochemistry degree’ right now, we insist. Rather, focus on which level of education you currently hold and explore your options.

For instance, if you have a bachelor’s degree, you can easily opt for an entry-level job in scientific research and gain some professional experience. You can also use your degree as a stepping stone to the medical field. Many people with a master’s degree go for a doctorate or even opt for teaching.

Many of you who do not know what jobs can you get with a biochemistry degree, we get your pain. We are here for you with an extensive list of job options in various industries you can apply for.

Why Biochemistry?

We know you wish to understand what do you do with a biochemistry degree, but if you are just stepping into this field, you need to understand what Biochemistry is and its importance.

Several chemical processes take place in the body almost every minute. These can make a mammoth difference to our health and even become a cause for sicknesses. For instance, if the cell division chemistry in the body goes haywire, it can cause the development of malignant tumors.

The study and investigation of the chemical reactions and interactions amongst living beings are known as biochemistry. As is apparent, biochemistry is the amalgam of biology and chemistry and is fundamental in therapeutic medications and immunizations.

How Do I Become A Biochemist?

To be a biochemist, you should possess impressive knowledge, skills, and scientific abilities. You can earn these qualifications by gaining relevant experience in the field or enrolling in biochemistry courses. Here are some tips for a successful biochemist:

1. Earn a credential in high school – You first need to finish high school and graduate with a GED or a diploma. After that, you can enroll in courses in disciplines like mathematics, chemistry, and biology to get well-acquainted with the basic scientific concepts. Later as you enroll in a dedicated bachelor’s program for greater depth.

2. Get a bachelor’s degree – If you want a career in biochemistry, you can enroll in a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry.

3. Pick elective courses – ‘I finished my bachelor’s. Now, what can I do with a biochemistry degree? If you wish to advance your employment opportunities and open possibilities of higher rewarding jobs, you can take up additional courses to boost your knowledge in your chosen field.

4. Pursue a master’s program – There are master’s programs in Biochemistry, veterinary, biotechnology, and medical fields.

5. Partake in the laboratory work – Typically, most biochemists work in a lab. So, as you pursue your education, you should also get well acquainted with the lab work. Further, familiarize yourself with the lab atmosphere and the different tools employed. If you need hands-on training, an internship can be preferable.

6. Get a Ph.D. – As you pursue your hands-on practice and learning, you can take the highest level of education possible by finishing your specialization in the field and acquiring your doctorate.

What can you do with a PhD in biochemistry?

You will be considered the senior-most professional in the field with the highest order of educational degrees. There will be a plethora of high-paying jobs in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries along with research opportunities waiting for you after this.

Who Employs A Biochemistry Graduate?

Finished your bachelor’s and wondering what can you do with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry?

Here are some options that will correctly answer your question what can you do with a biochemistry bachelors degree?

You can apply for a job with:

University laboratories and research on anything from disease treatment to gene therapy.
Hospital laboratories to study the patient’s samples and offer a course of action.
Agribusiness companies to develop more effective and safer agricultural products.

Law firms to assist in scientific cases.
Publishing companies for peer-reviewing, proofreading, and commissioning scientific articles.
Marketing and sales companies to sell and market the newest technology.
Government to offer advice on the latest scientific concerns.
Food regulation or product development companies to ensure food safety
Cosmetic companies to endorse the creation of more effective and safer products
Pharmaceutical companies develop drugs and other pharma products

What Can You Do With A Biochemistry Degree?

Completed your degree course but unsure what do you do with a biochemistry degree? Well, this section has all the answers for you. Here are some job opportunities for you:

A. Pharmaceutical chemist or a biochemist

Biochemists investigate the molecular mechanisms of biological systems. For instance, they may work towards researching the cellular function, interaction between specific cells and chemicals, and learning about the molecular makeup of proteins.

If you hold only a bachelor’s degree, your scope of work will be to perform basic research and conduct experiments in lab settings. As an entry-level professional, you do not perform intensive applications.

Now, you know what can you do with a bs in biochemistry, but what if you have an advanced degree?

In this case, you can work as an applied researcher on specific diseases or problems like HIV or cancer. Herein, you will work with a pharma company and devise new drugs and treatments.

To sum up..

So, broadly what can you do with a biochemistry degree? If you hold a master’s or a bachelor’s degree, you can work as a biological technician or lab assistant or enroll in an entry-level position. However, if you want to perform independent development and research, you need a Ph.D.

B. Patent Examiner

As a patent examiner, you can research and identify:

Creation of an invention
Who owns the right to use it?
When put to use?
Is it unique?

So, with your biochemistry degree, you will examine the innovations and inventions in the medical sector. However, there is no guarantee you will see several new-age designers, but it is always fun to see the new ideas. It is a high-paying job with an annual salary of $124,000

C. Toxicologist

A toxicologist studies the dangerous impact of different chemical and biological agents on the environment, animals, and humans. They may work in various settings in the hospitals, government agencies, and the pharma industry on different issues related to public health or environmental policy.

So, if you are confused about what can you do with a master’s in biochemistry, a toxicologist can be a good career pick.

These professionals test the safety of new products made with chemicals and understand the impact of the chemicals on the environment. On average, toxicologists make between $81328 to $113590.

D. Health and safety inspector

Also called the occupational safety and health technician, as a safety and health inspector, you will analyze the different organizational methods and practices to ensure they adhere to the legal requirements and are 100% hygienic and safe for employees.

You do not have many labs or testing work, but it demands massive human interaction and is often time-consuming. The annual salary starts at $61000.

E. Medical scientist

When you finish the highest level of education i.e. a Ph.D., what jobs can you get with a biochemistry degree? Becoming a medical scientist can be a good employment option when you have PhD-level skills. Their primary role is to perform research on human diseases and illnesses and unveil ways to better human health.

In addition, you also have to perform studies to investigate potential human diseases and treatment methods. Moreover, a medical scientist analyzes the samples and medical data to find the plausible dangers and causes of some chronic pathogens and diseases, writes research grant proposals to seek funding from government sources, and tests different medical devices.

So, what can you do with a PhD in biochemistry besides working as a medical scientist? Continue reading to find out.

F. College professor

Like many students from a science background, even the biochemistry majors consider becoming professors. Of course, it is an excellent option for biochemists to work as college professors because, given your understanding of the subject, you can nurture and inspire the future generation of scientists and perform your independent research.

A master’s degree to work as a post-secondary-level educator helps to be a college professor. However, you will need a doctorate to start a full-time tenure professorship.

G. Chemical safety engineer

What can you do with a biochemistry degree in your role as a chemical safety engineer? The chemical safety engineers work towards developing and designing procedures and systems that guard people against illnesses and injury associated with the software, machinery, furniture, chemicals, and other consumer products.

Further, you will review the plans and specifications for new machinery, correct and identify potential safety hazards, and ensure that all the buildings and products comply with the federal and state safety requirements.

If you cannot decide what can you do with a biochemistry bachelors degree, chemical safety engineers can be a go-to career choice.

H. Biologist

The role of a biologist involves studying plants and other living organisms to determine their habitats, compositions, and behaviors. They also perform research on living organisms to understand how they affect the environment they live in.

Beyond this, a biologist identifies and classifies the ecosystem, plants, and animals. Further, they take measurements and samples of organisms, understand their diet and behavior, and maintain a comprehensive record for advanced research.

I. Neuroscientist

Usually, when evaluating what jobs can you get with a biochemistry degree, people rarely consider working as a neuroscientist. But, it can be a rewarding profession. Herein, the primary focus is on researching and studying the nervous systems.

In addition, neuroscientists investigate the brain and its impact on cognitive behavior and functions. Their range of study comprises nerve cells, the spinal cord, and the brain. A neuroscientist earns an annual salary of $84000.

Beyond the careers listed, you can also apply for a job in the following fields with a biochemistry degree:

Research scientist
Forensic scientist
Forensic science technician
Ecologist
Science writer
Pharmacologist
Data scientist
Academic researcher
Nanotechnologist
Physician
Food scientist
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Science Journalist
Biochemical engineer
Biomedical Engineer
Medical Lab Technologist
High School Teacher
Petroleum Engineer
Chemistry Professor
Environmental Chemist
Medical scientist
Plastic surgeon
Technical support specialist for scientific products
Agronomist
Cytologist
Aquaculturalist
Brewmaster
Botanist
Fisheries Advisor
Bioinformatics Specialist

What Employable & Portable Skills You Master As A Biochemistry Professional?

You have your degree handy, but will that suffice? What do you do with a biochemistry degree if you do not possess the skills that make you bankable? So, in addition to the academic qualifications, there are some added skills you need to master to ace your career:

Hands-on laboratory skills
In-depth knowledge of different molecular biology techniques
Observation skills
Problem-solving abilities
Critical thinking
Data analysis
Data research
Ability to assemble an argument
Capabilities of engaging in a debate
Functional knowledge to comprehend biological processes

Beyond this, you also need general skills to excel as a biochemist. These are:

Report writing
Team working
Ability to meet deadlines
Presentation and communication
IT and math
Presentation and communication
Time management
Planning
Attention to detail
Ability to work independently

Multiple Industries Where You Can Work In With Your Biochemistry Degree

Let us understand the significance of Biochemistry in different industries and what can you do with a bachelors in biochemistry?

A. What Can You Do With A Biochemistry Major In Medicine?

For paramedical and medicine subjects, biochemistry has an essential role to play. It can also help in topics like pharmacology, pathology, physiology, and more. With the knowledge of biochemistry, you can:

Know the pathology of any disease
Understand the biochemical changes and physiological alterations
Identifying the disorder and biochemical change from the symptoms
Role and function of vitamins in the body
Importance of different body hormones

B. What Can You Do With A Bs In Biochemistry In Nursing?

I want to get into nursing. But I have a degree in biochemistry. So, what can I do with a biochemistry degree in this field?

Well, in nursing, biochemistry helps in the following ways:

Knowing how a patient’s condition progresses via clinical biochemistry and helping them recover.
Diagnosis of any clinical condition

C. What Is The Use of Biochemistry Degree In Agriculture?

Biochemistry also plays a vital role for the farmers in poultry, beekeeping, sericulture, fishery, and farming in the following ways:

It helps in the treatment and prevention of diseases and boosts the yield.
It helps boost food quality and production using fertilizers
Using substances to promote reproduction
Performing biochemical tests to evaluate the toxic waste or pesticides reside in food grains, plants, and soil
Assessment of the milk quality
Diagnosis of disease in birds or animals
Monitoring water quality in fisheries

Here are some free online courses for agriculture that you could also take.

D. What Can I Do With A Biochemistry Degree In Nutrition?

Biochemistry describes food chemistry in nutrition. To ensure good health, you need a proper intake of biochemicals like vitamins, minerals, macronutrients, micronutrients, water, and essential fatty acids. In this field, biochemistry may help in various ways like:

Knowing what to eat and possible physiological alterations because of deficiencies
Importance of different nutrients and their recommended intakes
Differentiating between healthier and unhealthy options
Learning the composition of food material
Nutrition value for foods

E. What Jobs Can You Get With A Biochemistry Degree In Pharmacy?

Pharmacies store several drugs for dispensing. So, biochemistry has a significant role to play there:

You can know about the drug’s constitution, the ideal temperature to secure it, and the chances of degradation.
How changes in medicinal chemistry can reduce side effects and improve efficiency
Knowing long a drug is stable when kept at X temperature
Conditions required for drug storage
Knowledge of drug metabolism
Deciding the expiry date for drugs

F. What Can I Do With A Biochemistry Degree In Engineering?

If you are interested in the employment of biochemistry in engineering, you must most likely know about biomedical engineering. It helps design applications and devices like diagnostic, artificial blood, heart valve machines, etc. Biochemistry in engineering can help:

Know the impact of electric shock on the body.
Understand nerve, muscle, and heart conduction by pacemakers
Learning about colloids and designing them for muscles and other medical purposes

G. What Can You Do With A Biochemistry Degree In Plant Study?

In plants, biochemistry paves the way for food synthesis. It also describes plant functions like:

Photosynthesis and complex enzymes involved in the act of carbohydrate formation
Respiration is where plants inhale carbon dioxide and exhale oxygen.
Defining the different kinds of carbohydrates formed in the plants
Knowing the formation of different plant products like phytohormones, enzymes, resins, alkaloids, tannins, and gums inside the plant
How plant fruits get ripe
Seed germination
Formation of amino acids, fats, and protein

Related: Best Biochemistry Textbooks

Frequently Asked Questions

Ques 1. How long does it take to earn a Ph.D. in biochemistry?

Ans. In biochemistry, the Ph.D. programs can be expensive. They also demand an extensive amount of time. Usually, they need about four to five years for completion. You can get financial assistance to offset the high cost.

Ques 2. People from which stream can apply for a job in biochemistry?

Ans. To apply for a job in biochemistry, you typically need to have a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry or an allied field like engineering, physics, chemistry, or biology.

Ques 3. What does a biochemist do?

Ans. Biophysicists or biochemists study physical and chemical principles of biological processes and living things like cell growth, development, disease, and heredity.

Ques 4. Are there any biochemistry jobs in hospitals?

Ans. Yes! Of course. If you are unsure about what can you do with a biochemistry major, hospitals can be an ideal workplace for you. In hospitals, you can analyze the body fluids and tissues and help with sickness diagnosis.

Diseases result in disrupted chemical functions of the body. So, biochemists detect disorders by examining the concentration of the substances in the body tissues and fluids.

Ques 5. Can I switch from biochemistry to medicine?

Ans. Yes, with your biochemistry bachelor’s, you can switch to allied fields like research and medicine by pursuing related degrees.

Ques 6. Can a biochemist become a doctor?

Ans. If you hold a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, you can switch to medicine at the Master’s level and become a medical doctor.

Ques 7. Can a biochemist become a pharmacist?

Ans. Biochemistry is the spine of biological science. Sans biochemistry, there is no pharmacy and no medicine. So, yes, a biochemist can work as a pharmacist.

Ques 8. What is the highest-paid job in biochemistry?

Ans. Some of the highest paying jobs in biochemistry are:

Physician Associate
College professor
Food scientist
Petroleum Engineer
Patent Examiner
Medical Chemist

Ques 9. What are the cons of being a biochemist?

Ans. If you are a biochemist, you may have to work under immense pressure with tight deadlines. Another disadvantage of working as a biochemist is the susceptibility of exposure to chemicals like compressed gasses, volatile organic compounds, biological agents, and acids.

Ques 10. What is the salary range for Biochemistry jobs?

Ans. Typically, the median salary in a Biochemistry job is $94,270. However, the top twenty-five percent make over $127,980, and the lowest twenty percent earn around $67,710.

EndNote

Hope you now have some clarity on what can you do with a biochemistry bachelors degree, masters or a Ph.D. We have tried to explain the mainstream as well as the divergent career paths you can choose from.

What Can I Do with A Biochemistry Degree – Plan of Action!

Jump To

Why Biochemistry?

How Do I Become A Biochemist?

What can you do with a PhD in biochemistry?

Who Employs A Biochemistry Graduate?

What Can You Do With A Biochemistry Degree?