What is a Biochemist? Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path | UK Career Advice

Jump to section

What is a Biochemist?

A Biochemist is a type of scientist who specialises in the understanding of chemical processes related to living organisms. They study things like DNA, proteins, and cell development, helping to improve our knowledge in areas such as health, agriculture and the environment.

Skills

Strong knowledge of biochemistry principles and techniques
Proficiency in laboratory procedures and equipment operation
Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities
Attention to detail and accuracy in data analysis
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Time management and organizational skills
Proficiency in scientific software and data analysis tools
Knowledge of health and safety regulations in the laboratory
Continuous learning and staying updated with advancements in the field

Qualifications & Education

Possession of a degree in a relevant field
Possession of an appropriate BTEC/SQA award
Possession of an Advanced GNVQ/GSVQ Level III
Possession of other academic qualifications
Further specialist training provided on the job
Some employers may expect entrants to gain professional qualifications

Career Path

Biochemist

Pharmaceutical Scientist

Drug Discovery Scientist

Clinical Research Associate

Regulatory Affairs Manager

Quality Control Manager

Senior Scientist

Biotechnology Researcher

Genetic Engineer

Biomedical Engineer

Bioinformatics Specialist

Clinical Biochemist

Clinical Laboratory Scientist

Pathologist Assistant

Laboratory Director

Environmental Scientist

Ecologist

Conservationist

Food Technologist

Product Development Manager

Quality Assurance Specialist

Frequently Asked Questions

Is biochemistry a hard career?

Yes, biochemistry can be considered a challenging career due to the complex nature of the subject and the required knowledge in biology, chemistry, and mathematics. However, if you have a strong interest in these subjects and enjoy studying them, pursuing a career in biochemistry can be rewarding, especially if you are interested in working in the STEM field.

What jobs can I get from a biochemistry degree?

With a biochemistry degree in the UK, you can pursue various career paths such as becoming an analytical chemist, biomedical or forensic scientist, data scientist, ecologist, engineer, food, bio- or nano-technologist, or pharmacologist.

Biochemist: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Jump to section