Career Summary

While biology is a study of living matter in all its forms, and whereby chemistry is the science that delves into the properties, composition, and structure of substances as well as the changes that occur in them, biochemistry is the field that bridges these two sciences by drawing on the resources and applications offered by both. Biochemistry deals with the chemical structure and phenomena extant in living organisms and the transformations they experience during development and the course of life.

Biochemists focus primarily on the chemical processes, vital functions, and changes that take place within a living cell. It’s been unearthed that all life forms possess analogous qualities on the atomic/molecular levels and that they function according to similar fundamental biological principles. Armed with the notion that virtually all of the biochemical reactions that transpire in living organisms are managed by enzymes, catalytic proteins, biochemists aim to construe a family tree for life on Earth by examining proteins from different species and noting the changes that have taken place through evolution. Since biochemistry revolves around the activities of living organisms, it offers great insight into various aspects of medicine, genetics, forensic science, nutrition, agriculture, and environmental studies. As biochemists are unscrambling the genetic code of humans, they design and help produce new and better vaccines and drugs that prevent and cure diseases. Biochemists play an essential role in the advancement of a number of diagnostic techniques and equipment for detecting diseases. They analyze the affects of pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and isolate the agents that are more compatible with human physiology and the environment. Their research and scientific discoveries are instrumental in the improvements made in the food processing methodology. Biochemists have laid a foundation for growing genetically engineered crops that are rapidly becoming mainstream staples. They lend their expertise, used in DNA fingerprinting and the examination of other biological samples, to criminal investigation labs. In light of its close association with medicine, a biochemistry degree provides a great preparation for medical and other professional schools. Biochemistry graduates with a Bachelor’s degree can find employment in science laboratories, technical sales and marketing, journalism, and high school-level teaching. An advanced degree can lead to a wide range of career options in biomedical and pharmaceutical research and development, academia, public health, forensics, environment, defense.

Students interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s degree should consult with an academic counselor and/or transfer counselor to discuss their specific university transfer requirements. 

Key Skills and Characteristics

• Inquisitive mind, analytical ability, imagination, and creativity.
• Expert knowledge of chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology.
• Broad scientific background, PC literacy, and business savvy.
• Enjoy learning, discovering new facts, conducting research.
• Problem solving and strong critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication/presentation skills.
• Comfortable with a team approach.

Related Career Titles

*Biochemical Tester  *Biochemist  *Biotechnologist  *Clinical Chemist  *Geneticist  *Researcher  *Technician  *Research Assistant  *Toxicologist


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