What can I do with a major in Biochemistry?

 

What kinds of jobs do biochemists get?

What do I need to learn to prepare for a career in Biochemistry?

What do biochemistry majors at MSU do after they graduate?

Additional information about biochemistry and related majors

What do biochemists do?molecule

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.

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 2006)

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.

In 2006, 40% of MSU biochemistry/biotechnology graduates went to work in jobs related to laboratory science, and 60% went on to graduate or professional school.

Common job titles for MSU Biochemistry graduates:


Biochemist

Contract scientist

Chemist

Laboratory technician

Research Associate

Research technician

Quality control technician

Research analyst

Research scientist

Research Fellow

Companies and organizations Biochemistry Graduates Worked at in 2006 Included:

  • Pfizer
  • Albany Molecular
  • Ivax Pharmaceuticals
  • AvTech Laboratories
  • Karmanos Cancer Institute
  • Neogen
  • National Institute of Health

Majors you can choose in this field at MSU are:

  • Biochemistry
  • Biotechnology

You may also want to consider:

  • Medical Technology
  • Clinical Lab Science
  • Microbiology

Links for further research:

MSU Resources: