Biochemistry

Biochemists study the chemical composition of living things. They analyze the complex chemical combinations and reactions involved in metabolism, reproduction, growth, and heredity. Biochemists and molecular biologists do most of their work in biotechnology, which involves understanding the complex chemistry of life.

Significant Points:

A Ph.D. degree usually is required for independent research, but a master’s degree is sufficient for some jobs in applied research or product development; a bachelor’s degree is adequate for some non-research positions.
Doctoral degree holders face considerable competition for independent research positions; holders of bachelor’s or master’s degrees in biological science can expect better opportunities in non-research positions.

Sample Occupations:

Biochemists
Teachers
Food Technologist
Researcher
Laboratory Technician
Mycologist
Medical Device construction
Bioprocesses operations
Agriculturist
Analyst
Food and Nutrition
Forensic Science
Medicine and Pharmacy
Environment and Waste Management
Oil and Petroleum Industry
Textile Science
Water Management
Dentistry
Drug Research
Industrial Chemistry
Plant Physiology
Marketing and Sales for Chemical Companies
Horticulture
Quality Control

Skills Required:

Excellent writing skills
Strong communications skills
Ability to work under pressure
Able to work as a team or individual
Knowledge of biology and chemistry, and ability to combine both to explain living processes in terms of chemical reactions
Ability to design experiments and analyze data
Creativity and critical thinking
Development of hypothesis and implementation of research when required

Professional Organizations:

Department:

Chemistry and BioChemistry

Maintained by webmaster@wpi.edu
Last modified: October 18, 2010 15:40:32