Biochemistry & Molecular Biology Career

by Kerri Fivecoat-Campbell

A strong interest in science, in how the chemistry of life works, in molecular methods, and the use of genetic engineering is what's needed to earn a degree in the growing field of biochemistry and molecular biology. If you've ever wondered about the chemistry of life and how scientists use genetic engineering and you feel a career in science is for you, then a bachelor's degree program in biochemistry and molecular biology might be just the road to put you in the laboratory.

Most programs in biochemistry and molecular biology prepare students for professional and research work as well as preparing them for furthering their career in science. Students who enter this field of study should have a very strong aptitude for math and science, as well as the desire to someday put their education to work in a science or research laboratory. Some schools do have programs that concentrate in the medial field for pre-medicine, pre-pharmacy, pre-dental, pre-optometry, and pre-veterinary school.

Students enrolled in a biochemistry and molecular biology degree program should expect to take some of the following courses, depending on the area of concentration and the individual school's program: English, biology, calculus, physics, microbiology, biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, and protein methods. Each school will also have a list of core requirements that might include communications, oral communication, fine arts requirements, humanities, and social/behavioral science.

The world is open to you as a graduate of a biochemistry and molecular biology program

Depending on your concentration, you will have the choice to continue your education in medicine, pharmacy, optometry, veterinary, or even forensics. As well, if you choose to work in a laboratory or research setting, you will have the option to do your graduate work in either biochemistry or molecular biology. Biochemists study the chemical composition of certain living things. Most biochemists do most of their work in biochemistry, which helps them do research and understand the complex chemistry of life.

The job growth rate in this industry is about average at this point, due to the lack of funding in research grants. However, highly educated, trained, and skilled people who enter these degree fields in the area of research should still be able to find employment, but the competition will be stiff. Those entering the health care field should not have as much of an issue, as all areas of health care are growing.

The conditions in which one works depend greatly on the area of study. For example, doctors, dentists, and optometrists generally work in office settings. Veterinarians generally also work in office settings unless they are large animal vets who travel into the field to treat their patients. Research scientists can work in labs for private companies and organizations or large public companies, as well as for government and universities.

The salary expectations are high, but generally, those entering the medical fields make more than research scientists.

Picking apart life can be a very rewarding career for the right candidates. If you're interested in the sciences and what makes us tick, find a school and choose a biochemistry and molecular biology degree program today!