What is a Biochemist or Biophysicist?
Example of Biochemist or Biophysicist Job Study the chemical composition or physical principles of living cells and organisms, their electrical and mechanical energy, and related phenomena. May conduct research to further understanding of the complex chemical combinations and reactions involved in metabolism, reproduction, growth, and heredity. May determine the effects of foods, drugs, serums, hormones, and other substances on tissues and vital processes of living organisms.
Biochemist or Biophysicist Responsibilities
- Share research findings by writing scientific articles or by making presentations at scientific conferences.
- Study the chemistry of living processes, such as cell development, breathing and digestion, or living energy changes, such as growth, aging, or death.
- Develop or execute tests to detect diseases, genetic disorders, or other abnormalities.
- Develop methods to process, store, or use foods, drugs, or chemical compounds.
- Determine the three-dimensional structure of biological macromolecules.
- Develop new methods to study the mechanisms of biological processes.
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Biochemist or Biophysicist Needed Skills
When polled, Biochemists and Biophysicists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Types of Biochemist or Biophysicist Jobs
- Research Scientist
- Toxicologist
- Clinical Researcher
- Protein Biochemistry Scientist
- Research Associate
Job Outlook for Biochemists and Biophysicists
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 31,500 jobs in the United States for Biochemist or Biophysicist. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 11.4% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 3,600 new jobs for Biochemist or Biophysicist by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 3,200 job openings in this field each year.

The states with the most job growth for Biochemist or Biophysicist are Utah, Florida, and Colorado. Watch out if you plan on working in West Virginia, Nevada, or Illinois. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
How Much Does a Biochemist or Biophysicist Make?
Biochemists and Biophysicists make between $49,230 and $177,680 a year.

Biochemists and Biophysicists who work in New Jersey, New Hampshire, or Massachusetts, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Biochemists and Biophysicists in different U.S. states.
State | Annual Mean Salary |
---|---|
Alabama | $87,520 |
Arizona | $96,610 |
California | $101,770 |
Colorado | $82,940 |
Delaware | $93,530 |
Florida | $82,830 |
Georgia | $89,450 |
Illinois | $111,760 |
Indiana | $107,040 |
Iowa | $63,890 |
Kentucky | $84,320 |
Maine | $74,430 |
Maryland | $99,370 |
Massachusetts | $104,650 |
Michigan | $79,560 |
Minnesota | $77,740 |
Missouri | $92,000 |
New Hampshire | $102,910 |
New Jersey | $145,180 |
New York | $68,990 |
North Carolina | $90,150 |
Ohio | $62,140 |
Oregon | $79,130 |
Pennsylvania | $94,860 |
Tennessee | $95,440 |
Texas | $88,680 |
Utah | $67,210 |
Washington | $74,370 |
Wisconsin | $82,170 |
What Tools & Technology do Biochemists and Biophysicists Use?
Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Biochemists and Biophysicists may use on a daily basis:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Python
- Email software
- Word processing software
- SAP
- Microsoft Visio
- Adobe Systems Adobe Photoshop
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- SAS
- Linux
- Extensible markup language XML
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- Minitab
- Practical extraction and reporting language Perl
- Graphics software
- Statistical software
- Presentation software
How do I Become a Biochemist or Biophysicist?
Learn what Biochemist or Biophysicist education requirements there are.

What work experience do I need to become a Biochemist or Biophysicist?

Biochemists and Biophysicists Sector

The table below shows the approximate number of Biochemists and Biophysicists employed by various industries.

Similar Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Biochemist or Biophysicist might also be interested in the following careers:
Career changers with experience as a Biochemist or Biophysicist sometimes find work in one of the following fields:
References:
Image Credit: Shrout, Bill via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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