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Biochemists and Biophysicists

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.

SOC: 19-1021.00

Common Job Titles

  • Analytical Research Chemist
  • Biochemist
  • Biophysics Researcher
  • Scientist

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeAnalyze complex biochemical data from spectroscopy, chromatography, and mass spectrometry experiments using advanced statistical software and mathematical modeling to elucidate molecular mechanisms.
  • KnowledgeDesign experimental protocols to investigate cellular metabolism, reproduction, and heredity independently formulating research strategies that advance understanding of chemical combinations and reactions.
  • KnowledgeSynthesize findings from molecular dynamics simulations, X-ray crystallography, and NMR spectroscopy to develop novel insights into protein structure-function relationships.
  • KnowledgeCompose scientific manuscripts, research reports, and grant proposals detailing experimental methodology and findings for peer-reviewed journals and funding agencies, adhering to discipline-specific conventions.
  • KnowledgeInterpret complex chemical and physical phenomena at the molecular and cellular level by synthesizing theoretical principles with empirical observations to explain mechanisms of biological processes.
  • MindsetModel rigorous scientific inquiry and ethical research practices when mentoring junior researchers and students in laboratory methodologies and data integrity.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate effects of foods, drugs, hormones, and other substances on living tissues and vital processes in laboratory settings, integrating knowledge of biology, chemistry, and physics.
  • Hands-onOperate sophisticated analytical equipment including electron microscopes, ultracentrifuges, and laser-based spectroscopic systems following established protocols while maintaining equipment calibration and safety standards.
  • Hands-onExecute precisely molecular biology techniques including electrophoresis, chromatography, and DNA sequencing in biosafety-controlled laboratory environments under time-sensitive experimental conditions.
  • KnowledgeApply computational modeling software and programming languages (Python, Perl, MATLAB) to simulate biochemical pathways, predict molecular interactions, and analyze high-throughput data.
  • MindsetIntegrate collaborative research perspectives from interdisciplinary teams when coordinating projects involving chemists, physicists, clinicians, and computational scientists.

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Biochemists and Biophysicists (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

34,520

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $64,890. 25th percentile: U.S. $78,730. 50th percentile: U.S. $103,650. 75th percentile: U.S. $134,460. 90th percentile: U.S. $168,900. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$64,890
10% of workers earn the following or more$168,900
Workers on average earn$115,570

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Biology4.7/5
  • Chemistry4.3/5
  • Mathematics4.3/5
  • English Language4.3/5
  • Physics4.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Extensible markup language XML
  • IBM SPSS Statistics
  • Linux
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Visio
  • Microsoft Word
  • Perl
  • Python
  • SAP software
  • SAS
  • The MathWorks MATLAB

Technology Skills

  • 3D graphics software
  • Accelrys Cerius2
  • Accelrys FELIX
  • Accelrys Insight II
  • Accelrys QAUNTA
  • Analysis and building software
  • Assisted model building with energy refinement AMBER
  • AutoQuant AutoDeblur
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Amino acid analyzers
  • Analytical balances
  • Analytical ultracentrifuges
  • Argon lasers
  • Atomic force microscopes
  • Auto gamma counters
  • Autoclaves
  • Automated electrophoresis equipment
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment