Biochemist

Biochemists study the chemistry of living organisms to increase scientific knowledge and develop ways to apply this knowledge in areas such as medicine, veterinary science, agriculture, environmental science and manufacturing. Biochemistry provides a basis for all the life sciences.

A biochemist may perform the following tasks:

  • study the chemical processes which occur within individual cells
  • study the processes, such as digestion and growth, which involve whole organisms
  • undertake detailed chemical analysis using sophisticated instruments and techniques
  • prepare or supervise the preparation of scientific reports and papers for journals based on observations and experiments.

A biochemist may specialise as a:

Clinical Biochemist who works in hospital laboratories where they study the chemical composition of various tissues and body fluids to assist in the study, diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

Industrial Biochemist who works in laboratories in analytical and research work, such as checking the purity of food and beverages, or the enzymic production of fuels from waste products by fermentation procedures.

Research Biochemist who works in laboratories in universities, biotechnology companies and agricultural, medical and veterinary institutes. They study problems such as understanding the metabolism, growth and reproduction of fungi, bacteria, plants and animals, as well as the organisation of viruses. They frequently use the latest genetic-engineering and molecular-biological techniques.

Required Skills - Biochemist

  • enjoy chemistry, biology and maths
  • able to think logically and analytically
  • able to work as part of a team
  • able to work independently
  • creative and imaginative in designing forward-looking experiments

Similar Jobs - Biochemist

Find work - Biochemist

         Job Search - Biochemist