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 ChemistBiochemistBiophysics ResearcherScientist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey 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.Advanced
- KnowledgeDesign experimental protocols to investigate cellular metabolism, reproduction, and heredity independently formulating research strategies that advance understanding of chemical combinations and reactions.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize findings from molecular dynamics simulations, X-ray crystallography, and NMR spectroscopy to develop novel insights into protein structure-function relationships.Advanced
- 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.Advanced
- 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.Advanced
- MindsetModel rigorous scientific inquiry and ethical research practices when mentoring junior researchers and students in laboratory methodologies and data integrity.Advanced
- 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.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate sophisticated analytical equipment including electron microscopes, ultracentrifuges, and laser-based spectroscopic systems following established protocols while maintaining equipment calibration and safety standards.Proficient
- Hands-onExecute precisely molecular biology techniques including electrophoresis, chromatography, and DNA sequencing in biosafety-controlled laboratory environments under time-sensitive experimental conditions.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply computational modeling software and programming languages (Python, Perl, MATLAB) to simulate biochemical pathways, predict molecular interactions, and analyze high-throughput data.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate collaborative research perspectives from interdisciplinary teams when coordinating projects involving chemists, physicists, clinicians, and computational scientists.Proficient
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
| Metric | U.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
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Adobe PhotoshopExtensible markup language XMLIBM SPSS StatisticsLinuxMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft VisioMicrosoft WordPerlPythonSAP softwareSASThe MathWorks MATLAB
Technology Skills
3D graphics softwareAccelrys Cerius2Accelrys FELIXAccelrys Insight IIAccelrys QAUNTAAnalysis and building softwareAssisted model building with energy refinement AMBERAutoQuant AutoDeblur
Tools & Equipment
Amino acid analyzersAnalytical balancesAnalytical ultracentrifugesArgon lasersAtomic force microscopesAuto gamma countersAutoclavesAutomated electrophoresis equipment