Biochemists and Biophysicists
Did You Know:*
- Biotechnological research and development should continue to drive much faster than average employment growth.
- A Ph.D. is usually required for independent research, but a bachelor's degree is sufficient for some jobs in applied research or product development; temporary postdoctoral research positions are common.
- Competition for independent research positions in academia is expected.
Industry Areas
- Scientific Research and Development Services
- Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing
- Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools
Day-to-Day Tasks*
- Prepare reports and recommendations based upon research outcomes.
- Develop new methods to study the mechanisms of biological processes.
- Manage laboratory teams, and monitor the quality of a team's work.
Overall Kind of Work*
Biological scientists study living organisms and their relationship to the environment. They perform research to gain a better understanding of fundamental life processes and apply that understand...
Work Environment*
Civilian
Most biologists spend their time in laboratories conducting research and in offices writing up results and keeping up with the latest research discoveries. Some biological scientists, particularly...
Military
Life scientists work in medical, clinical, and research laboratories and, at times, in food processing or storage plants. They may work outdoors while conducting field work on land or aboard ships.
Workweek Breakdown
The hours worked per week by people currently pursuing this career.
- 4.85% (0-20 Hours)
- 4.10% (21-34 Hours)
- 0.76% (35-39 Hours)
- 85.16% (40 Hours)
- 2.93% (41-49 Hours)
- 2.21% (Over 50 Hours)
This data also pertains to Biological scientists (19-1020)
Type of Work
The level of day-to-day involvement with data, people or things.
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People: 
Things:
Skills at a Glance
The levels of different skills helpful in this career.
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Workplace at a Glance
The level of different environmental factors you would experience on the job.
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Exposure to Job Hazards:
Physical Activity:
Decision Making: 
Repetitiveness:
Level of Competition:
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Business Breakdown
The different sectors people in this career currently work in.
- 31.78% (Private For-Profit)
- 13.95% (Private Not For-Profit)
- 28.75% (State and Local Govt)
- 22.36% (Federal Government)
- 3.16% (Self-Employed)
This data also pertains to Biological Scientists
Military Breakdown
The number of people who currently hold this career in the Military.
199 Biochemists and Biophysicists in the military