### Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Biochemists and Biophysicists Summary
                        
            
                                                        
                                                                
                        
            
            
            
                            
                                                
                                                
                                                
                                                
            						
							
				                                                
                                            




            			biochemists and biophysicists imageBiochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical properties of cells.							
						Quick Facts:     Biochemists and Biophysicists2023     Median Pay
            						$107,460     per year
										$51.66     per hourTypical Entry-Level Education
                                    Doctoral or professional degreeWork Experience in a Related Occupation
                                    NoneOn-the-job Training
                                    NoneNumber of Jobs, 2022
                                    34,500Job Outlook, 2022-32
                                    7% (Faster than average)Employment Change, 2022-32
                                    2,300What Biochemists and Biophysicists Do
                                                
                        
                        
Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes.
            
                        Work Environment
                        
Biochemists and biophysicists typically work in laboratories and offices to conduct experiments and analyze the results. Most work full time.
            
                                                How to Become a Biochemist or Biophysicist
                                                
                        
Biochemists and biophysicists need a Ph.D. to work in independent research and development. Many Ph.D. holders begin their careers in temporary postdoctoral research positions. Bachelor’s and master’s degree holders qualify for some entry-level positions in biochemistry and biophysics.
            
                        Pay
                        												                            																				    														The median annual wage for biochemists and biophysicists was $107,460 in May 2023.									                                					
						
            
                        Job Outlook
                        						
												Employment							of biochemists and biophysicists is projected to grow							 7 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.
						About 2,800 openings for biochemists and biophysicists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
            			
            			 Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
						State & Area Data
                       Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for biochemists and biophysicists.
            
            
						
                        Similar Occupations
                        
                                                    Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of biochemists and biophysicists with similar occupations.
            
            
                        More Information, Including Links to O*NET
                        
                                               
                        Learn more about biochemists and biophysicists by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.
 What Biochemists and Biophysicists Do 
            

			Biochemists and biophysicistsBiochemists and biophysicists play a key role in developing new medicines to fight diseases such as cancer.			
Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes, such as cell development, growth, heredity, and disease.
Duties
Biochemists and biophysicists typically do the following:
Plan and conduct complex projects in basic and applied research
Manage laboratory teams and monitor the quality of their work
Isolate, analyze, and synthesize proteins, fats, DNA, and other molecules
Research the effects of substances such as drugs, hormones, and nutrients on tissues and biological processes
Review literature and the findings of other researchers and attend conferences
Prepare technical reports, research papers, and recommendations based on their research findings
Present research findings to scientists, engineers, and other colleagues
Secure funding and write grant applicationsBiochemists and biophysicists use advanced technologies, such as lasers and fluorescent microscopes, to conduct scientific experiments and analyses. They also use x rays and computer modeling software to determine the three-dimensional structures of proteins and other molecules. Biochemists and biophysicists involved in biotechnology research use chemical enzymes to synthesize recombinant DNA.
Biochemists and biophysicists work in basic and applied research. Basic research is conducted without any immediately known application; the goal is to expand human knowledge. Applied research is directed toward solving a particular problem.
Biochemists, sometimes called *molecular biologists* or *cellular biologists*, may study the molecular mechanisms by which cells feed, divide, and grow. Others study the evolution of plants and animals, to understand how genetic traits are carried through successive generations.
Biophysicists may conduct basic research to learn how nerve cells communicate or how proteins work. Biochemists and biophysicists who conduct basic research typically must submit written grant proposals to colleges and universities, private foundations, and the federal government to get the money they need for their research.
Biochemists and biophysicists who conduct applied research attempt to develop products and processes that improve people’s lives. For example, in medicine, biochemists and biophysicists develop tests used to detect infections, genetic disorders, and other diseases. They also develop new drugs and medications, such as those used to treat cancer or Alzheimer’s disease.
Applied research in biochemistry and biophysics has many uses outside of medicine. In agriculture, biochemists and biophysicists research ways to genetically engineer crops so that they will be resistant to drought, disease, insects, and other afflictions. Biochemists and biophysicists also investigate alternative fuels, such as biofuels—renewable energy sources from plants. In addition, they develop ways to protect the environment and clean up pollution.
Many people with a biochemistry background become professors and teachers. For more information, see the profile on postsecondary teachers.
 Work Environment
			Biochemists and biophysicistsMost biochemists and biophysicists work in laboratories.			

	    
				
	
	
	
	
	
	
	    					 Biochemists and biophysicists held about 34,500 jobs in 2022. The largest employers of biochemists and biophysicists were as follows:
        Scientific research and development services
                58%Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing
                18Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state, local, and private
                7Wholesale trade
                3Biochemists and biophysicists typically work in laboratories and offices, to conduct experiments and analyze the results. Those who work with dangerous organisms or toxic substances in the laboratory must follow safety procedures to avoid contamination.
Most biochemists and biophysicists work on teams. Research projects are often interdisciplinary, and biochemists and biophysicists frequently work with experts in other fields, such as physics, chemistry, computer science, and engineering. Those working in biological research generate large amounts of data. They collaborate with specialists called ***bioinformaticians***, who use their knowledge of statistics, math, engineering, and computer science to mine datasets for correlations that might explain biological phenomena.
Some biotech companies need researchers to help sell their products. These products often rely on very complex technologies, and having an expert explain them to potential customers might be necessary. This role for researchers may be more common in smaller companies, where workers often fulfill multiple roles, such as working in research and in sales. Working in sales may require a substantial amount of travel. For more information on sales representatives, see the profile on wholesale and manufacturing sales representatives.
Work Schedules
Most biochemists and biophysicists work full time and keep regular hours. They may have to work additional hours to meet project deadlines or to perform time-sensitive laboratory experiments.
 How to Become a Biochemist or Biophysicist

			Biochemists and biophysicistsBiochemists and biophysicists need a Ph.D. to work in independent research and development positions.			
Biochemists and biophysicists need a Ph.D. to work in independent research-and-development positions. Most Ph.D. holders begin their careers in temporary postdoctoral research positions. Bachelor’s and master’s degree holders are qualified for some entry-level positions in biochemistry and biophysics.
Education
High school students interested in becoming a biochemist or biophysicist should take classes in natural and physical sciences, as well as in math.
Ph.D. holders in biochemistry and biophysics typically have a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry or a related field, such as biology, physical science, or engineering. Students in these programs usually take courses in math and physics in addition to courses in biological and chemical sciences. Most programs also require laboratory work. Students may gain lab experience working in a university’s laboratories or through internships with prospective employers, such as pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturers.
Ph.D. programs typically include advanced coursework in topics such as toxicology, genetics, and proteomics (the study of proteins). Several graduate programs include courses in bioinformatics, which involves using computers to study and analyze large amounts of biological data. Graduate students also spend a lot of time conducting laboratory research. Study at the master’s level is generally considered good preparation for those interested in doing hands-on laboratory work. Ph.D.-level studies provide additional training in the planning and execution of research projects.
Training
Many biochemistry and biophysics Ph.D. holders begin their careers in temporary postdoctoral research positions. During their postdoctoral appointments, they work with experienced scientists as they continue to learn about their specialties or develop a broader understanding of related areas of research.
Postdoctoral positions frequently offer the opportunity to publish research findings. A solid record of published research is essential to getting a permanent college or university faculty position.
Important Qualities
***Analytical skills.*** Biochemists and biophysicists must be able to conduct scientific experiments and analyses with accuracy and precision.
***Communication skills.*** Biochemists and biophysicists have to write and publish reports and research papers, give presentations of their findings, and communicate clearly with team members.
***Critical-thinking skills.*** Biochemists and biophysicists draw conclusions from experimental results through sound reasoning and judgment.
***Interpersonal skills.*** Biochemists and biophysicists typically work on interdisciplinary research teams and need to work well with others toward a common goal. Many serve as team leaders and must be able to motivate and direct other team members.
***Math skills.*** Biochemists and biophysicists use complex equations and formulas regularly in their work. They need a broad understanding of math, including calculus and statistics.
***Perseverance.*** Biochemists and biophysicists need to be thorough in their research and in their approach to problems. Scientific research involves substantial trial and error, and biochemists and biophysicists must not become discouraged in their work.
***Problem-solving skills.*** Biochemists and biophysicists use scientific experiments and analysis to find solutions to complex scientific problems.
***Time-management skills.***Biochemists and biophysicists usually need to meet deadlines when conducting research. They must be able to manage time and prioritize tasks efficiently while maintaining their quality of work.
Advancement
Some biochemists and biophysicists become natural sciences managers. Those who pursue management careers spend much of their time on administrative tasks, such as preparing budgets and schedules.
 Pay

			



	
 
                                                     
            
    
                Biochemists and BiophysicistsMedian annual wages, May 2023Biochemists and biophysicists$107,460  Life scientists$88,620  Total, all occupations$48,060Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics
 

	
	



		
	
	
	
The median annual wage for biochemists and biophysicists was $107,460 in May 2023. 


The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $64,680, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $175,790.





		
	    					 In May 2023, the median annual wages for biochemists and biophysicists in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:	
        Wholesale trade
                $132,210Scientific research and development services
                124,930Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing
                102,280Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state, local, and private
                64,540Most biochemists and biophysicists work full time and keep regular hours. They may have to work additional hours to meet project deadlines or to perform time-sensitive laboratory experiments.
 Job Outlook

   
        
    
          
        
    
               Biochemists and BiophysicistsPercent change in employment, projected 2022-32Life scientists7%  Biochemists and biophysicists7%  Total, all occupations3%Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program
            
            
			 
	
	
	

			Employment				of biochemists and biophysicists is projected to grow				 7 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.
			
			About 2,800 openings for biochemists and biophysicists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
			
			 Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
			Employment
	
			
Biochemists and biophysicists will continue to be needed to do basic research that increases scientific knowledge and to research and develop biological products and processes that improve people’s lives. Techniques, tools, and applications of biochemistry and biophysics are expanding as technology and knowledge progress.
The aging population will drive demand for new drugs and procedures to prevent, cure, or manage disease. This increased demand is, in turn, likely to create demand for biochemists and biophysicists involved in biomedical research. For example, biochemists and biophysicists will be needed to conduct genetic research and to develop new medicines and treatments that are used to fight genetic disorders and diseases, such as cancer. They also will be needed to develop new tests used to detect diseases and other illnesses.
Areas of research and development in biotechnology other than health also are expected to provide employment growth for biochemists and biophysicists. These workers will continue to be needed to study topics that advance our capabilities related to clean energy, efficient food production, and environmental protection.
			

                        Employment projections data for     biochemists and biophysicists, 2022-32
                Occupational Title
                        SOC Code
                        Employment, 2022
                        Projected Employment, 2032
                        Change, 2022-32
                        Employment by IndustryPercent
                        NumericSOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program**Biochemists and biophysicists**
			19-1021
			34,500
			36,800
			7
			2,300
			Get data
 State & Area Data **Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS)** The Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations. These estimates are available for the nation as a whole, for individual states, and for metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. The link(s) below go to OES data maps for employment and wages by state and area. Biochemists and biophysicists **Projections Central** Occupational employment projections are developed for all states by Labor Market Information (LMI) or individual state Employment Projections offices. All state projections data are available at www.projectionscentral.com. Information on this site allows projected employment growth for an occupation to be compared among states or to be compared within one state. In addition, states may produce projections for areas; there are links to each state’s websites where these data may be retrieved. **CareerOneStop** CareerOneStop includes hundreds of occupational profiles with data available by state and metro area. There are links in the left-hand side menu to compare occupational employment by state and occupational wages by local area or metro area. There is also a salary info tool to search for wages by zip code.
 Similar Occupations This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of biochemists and biophysicists. Occupation
                Job Duties
                ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION
                2023     MEDIAN PAY**Agricultural and Food Scientists**
            Agricultural and food scientists research ways to improve the efficiency and safety of agricultural establishments and products.
            Bachelor's degree
            $76,400**Biological Technicians**
            Biological technicians help biological and medical scientists conduct laboratory tests and experiments.
            Bachelor's degree
            $51,430**Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers**
            Bioengineers and biomedical engineers combine engineering principles with sciences to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems, and software.
            Bachelor's degree
            $100,730**Chemists and Materials Scientists**
            Chemists and materials scientists research and analyze the chemical properties of substances to develop new materials, products, or knowledge.
            Bachelor's degree
            $87,180**Environmental Scientists and Specialists**
            Environmental scientists and specialists use their knowledge of the natural sciences to protect the environment and human health.
            Bachelor's degree
            $78,980**Medical Scientists**
            Medical scientists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health.
            Doctoral or professional degree
            $100,890**Microbiologists**
            Microbiologists study microorganisms such as bacteria, algae, and fungi.
            Bachelor's degree
            $85,470**Natural Sciences Managers**
            Natural sciences managers plan, supervise, or coordinate research and other activities in fields such as life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, and statistics.
            Bachelor's degree
            $157,740**Physicists and Astronomers**
            Physicists and astronomers study the interactions of matter and energy.
            Doctoral or professional degree
            $149,530**Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists**
            Zoologists and wildlife biologists study animals, those both in captivity and in the wild, and how they interact with their ecosystems.
            Bachelor's degree
            $70,600
 Contacts for More Information
								
For more information about biochemists, visit
American Chemical Society
American Chemical Society, Division of Biological Chemistry
American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
For more information about biophysicists, visit
Biophysical Society
International Union for Pure and Applied Biophysics
For general information about careers in biological sciences, visit
American Institute of Biological Sciences
Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology
For information about grants and funding for healthcare-related research, visit
National Institutes of Health

                                                
                                                        
                                                                                                    O*NET
                                        Biochemists and Biophysicists
 Suggested citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S.  Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Biochemists and Biophysicists, 
        	 at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/biochemists-and-biophysicists.htm (visited *May 21, 2024*).
 **Last Modified Date:**
                        Wednesday, April 17, 2024


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