Biochemists and Biophysicists
What is a Biochemists and Biophysicists?
Biochemists and biophysicists are scientists who study the chemical processes and physical principles that govern biological systems. They explore the fundamental building blocks of life, such as proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids, to understand how these components interact, function, and contribute to the complex processes of living organisms. By employing techniques from both biochemistry and biophysics, these professionals investigate molecular structures, mechanisms of enzyme action, metabolic pathways, and the physical properties of biological macromolecules. Their research often involves both experimental methods and computational models to elucidate how biological systems operate at the molecular level. Biochemists and biophysicists play a critical role in various fields, including medicine, genetics, environmental science, and biotechnology, contributing valuable insights that can lead to advancements in drug development, disease treatment, and the understanding of cellular processes.
Tasks
- Share research findings by writing scientific articles or by making presentations at scientific conferences.
- Teach or advise undergraduate or graduate students or supervise their research.
- Study physical principles of living cells or organisms and their electrical or mechanical energy, applying methods and knowledge of mathematics, physics, chemistry, or biology.
- Manage laboratory teams or monitor the quality of a team's work.
- Develop new methods to study the mechanisms of biological processes.
Technology Skills
- Analytical or scientific software
- Presentation software
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Graphics or photo imaging software
- 3D graphics software
- Adobe Photoshop
- Graphics software
- BIOVIA Discovery Studio
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Electronic mail software
- Email software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Computer aided design CAD software
Tools Used
- Spectrometers
- Lasers
- Light scattering equipment
- Benchtop centrifuges
- Calorimeters
Knowledge
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Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
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Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Physics
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Skills
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Science
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Writing
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
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Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Abilities
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Written Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Post-doctoral training
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Bachelor's degree
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Doctoral degree
Work Activities
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Documenting/Recording Information
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
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Thinking Creatively
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Detailed Work Activities
- Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
- Instruct college students in physical or life sciences.
- Research microbiological or chemical processes or structures.
- Supervise scientific or technical personnel.
- Develop biological research methods.
Work Interests
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$64680.0 - $175790.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.