Biochemistry is the study of living things at the molecular level, focusing mainly on the processes that occur. For example, they may study cell development, how cell structure relates to function, how cells communicate with each other to fight disease or regulate an organism's development, and how they metabolize food and oxygen.

Many biochemists study how pharmaceutical drugs and foods affect an organism's biology. Some also study how environmental toxins are metabolized, and how they may disrupt biological processes.

Because biochemistry encompasses all living things, it's a very wide field of study with a range of applications in medicine, agriculture, and the environment.

Learn more about biochemistry degrees.

Biochemists may study cellular and molecular processes to increase our general understanding about them, or work on solving specific problems. For example, they may try to figure out how a chemical like Bisphenol A (BPA), found in some plastics, affects the human body. Others may try to discover how certain genes or environmental factors cause disease, and how to suppress or "turn off" the errant mechanism. Those working in agriculture research ways to genetically modify crops for resilience to drought or pests. Some work on developing biofuels.

Regardless of the field of application, most biochemists perform many of the same duties. They plan and conduct experiments to isolate, quantify and analyze hormones, enzymes, and toxins, and to determine the effects of substances like drugs, food and toxins on biological processes. They may also develop new analytical techniques to detect pollutants and their metabolites, or to study biological processes. They may also use computer software to determine the three-dimensional structure of molecules, or use math to describe the chemical relationships between substances found in the environment and in the body. They also share research findings by writing reports, recommendations, or scientific articles, or by presenting at scientific conferences.

This field clearly plays an important role in public health. Biochemists helps determine the environmental causes of disease - information that can help policymakers eliminate or reduce risk, and potentially help doctors treat the conditions. But biochemistry is vital to many aspects of sustainability as well.

For example, these scientists may study the toxicological effects of industrial chemicals and other pollutants on wildlife. Some discover new ways to use the biological processes of plants and microbes to break down these pollutants. Some are working on solving the food crisis by developing inexpensive, high-yield, nutritious, and sustainable crops. Others study ways to turn the energy in waste products, crops, and algae into biofuels. Some biochemists are trying to develop artificial photosynthesis, a process intended to mimic the way plants derive energy from the sun, to develop solar fuel.

Biochemists work for a variety of industries and government agencies. For example, they may analyze the effects of air, water, and soil pollution on people, wildlife, plants, and crops for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or Department of Agriculture. They may also study the effects of drugs or food for the National Institutes of Health or the Food and Drug Administration. Many biochemists are employed by pharmaceutical firms and companies dealing with food-related chemicals such as animal feed, agricultural chemicals, and food for human consumption, where they conduct research to understand disease and develop new products. Some work in manufacturing, energy development, or environmental restoration firms. Others work in hospital laboratories. They may also work as faculty, research staff, or teachers at colleges, universities, and secondary schools. Some also work for law firms, where they deal with scientific cases.

Most biochemists work indoors in laboratories and offices. Some, especially those working for environmental restoration firms, may travel to outdoor work sites. Lab and field work may result in exposure to biological or chemical hazards. Following established safety procedures is important in these situations.

Most biochemists work full time, and many work more than 40 hours per week. Employers, industries, and work environments can vary by the type of biochemistry practiced.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) gives the 2012 average annual salary for biochemists and biophysicists as $84,320. However, The Scientist's more recent Life Sciences Salary Survey lists the average 2014 salary for biochemists as $100,433.

Table data taken from BLS (http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes191021.htm)

Employment in this field is expected to grow 19% from 2012 to 2022, which is faster than the average for all occupations. However, since it's a small field to begin with, only about 5,400 new jobs will be created. Due to an aging population, much of the growth will be in medical research. However, increased pressure on food and energy resources will drive growth in agricultural and biofuels research. Concerns about pollution will also expand opportunities for biochemists who work on toxicological effects and bioremediation.

Much of the research in biochemistry and biophysics, particularly at colleges and universities, is dependent on funding from the federal government. Federal budgets and the availability of research funding may affect the job market from year to year.

Senior tier biochemist jobs may have the following elements in addition to tier-one responsibilities:

Some universities offer a one-year post-graduate training program in laboratory techniques, which is highly valued by many private companies. Some let you work towards a bachelor's degree and a microbiology-related certificate at the same time.

While those with bachelor's degrees may qualify for some entry-level positions, most biochemists earn advanced degrees. Graduate study usually involves a lot of laboratory work, and allows you to specialize in a particular area like molecular biology or bioinformatics. Graduate students earn degrees (M.S. or M.A.) in Biochemistry, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biochemical Engineering, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, or other related areas.

However, doctoral degrees are required for positions involving independent research and development. Ph.D. programs generally include more advanced coursework on biochemistry, as well as independent research. Most newly minted PhDs start out in postdoctoral research positions. These positions can lead to publication, which is crucial to landing a permanent research position. Many biochemists bide their time in multiple postdoctoral positions before getting a permanent academic appointment.

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How to Become a Biochemist | EnvironmentalScience.org