Introduction

Biochemistry is the study of the molecular basis of all aspects of the structure and function of living things.


They normally work in teams with other scientists and technicians, and use complex, computer-controlled equipment. They conduct experiments, make observations, write up their work in reports and present scientific papers. In universities or teaching hospitals, they are involved in teaching and supervising students.


Biochemists working in hospitals and industry. They work in laboratories, often in sterile conditions. They may work with hazardous substances, and sometimes have to wear protective clothing.


There are many bioscience companies in the India employing thousands of people, many of whom are biochemists. They can work for many different organisations including government research establishments, hospitals, the industrial sector, laboratories and universities.


Most biochemists have a degree and often a postgraduate qualification. There are no age limits for starting work as a biochemist.


All biochemists and technicians are given continuing on-the-job training to learn new laboratory techniques and to keep up to date in their specialist area. They usually study for an MSc or PhD.


Postgraduate level qualifications can be extremely helpful for career advancement.
 

What Do They Do?

Biochemistry is the study of the molecular basis of all aspects of the structure and function of living things. Using the principles and techniques of chemistry and molecular biology, biochemists, alongside other scientists, work to understand basic biological processes in animals, plants and microbes. Biochemistry has formed the basis for genetic modification and biotechnology.


Biochemists work in a large range of specialisms, including:

• developing new medicines and treatments for illness and disease
   

• working with doctors to diagnose, monitor and treat patients
   

• screening for the signs of disease
   

• analysing samples to detect poisons and drugs
   

• identifying, deciphering and manipulating the genetic code
   

• working out how various biological systems work - from the brain to the blood system, the immune system to hormones
   

• forensic investigation, including genetic fingerprinting
   

• improving crop production or resistance to pests and diseases
   

• combating environmental pollution
   

• teaching and supervising students in a university or teaching hospital.

Biochemists can be involved in cutting edge discoveries and the development of new research techniques. Many have a responsibility to inform the public about findings and potential threats to humans or nature. Clinical biochemists work in medical settings and must follow a particular career path in the early years.


They normally work in teams with other scientists and technicians. These could include bioinformaticians, cell biologists, chemists, geneticists, immunologists, microbiologists, molecular biologists, physiologists and pharmacologists.


Working as a biochemist involves using complex, sophisticated and sensitive equipment and procedures. Much of the equipment used depends on computer technology, so it is important to understand computers.


Biochemists design and conduct experiments, make observations, and then write up their work in reports and scientific papers and present these at scientific meetings or conferences.

In universities or teaching hospitals, biochemists are involved in teaching and supervising students. They may be involved in research activities.

Work environment

Biochemists work in laboratories, which are clean. The equipment they work with may be complex, expensive and computer-controlled. Some of this work requires sterile conditions. Biochemists may work with hazardous substances, or micro-organisms, which cause infectious diseases. Some samples may be unpleasant. The work can involve sitting or standing at a bench or piece of equipment for long periods.


Most biochemists wear some form of protective clothing, either to protect themselves or to prevent contamination of samples or equipment. This will depend on the work, and can include coats, gloves, masks, eye protection, or even all-over sealed protective suits.


They may sometimes travel to scientific meetings and conferences.

Skills and personal qualities

Biochemists should:

• be very good at science
   

• have enquiring minds and be able to think clearly and logically
   

• be good at problem solving
   

• be able to work accurately
   

• be able to work in and lead a team of professionals
   

• have excellent communication skills
   

• be able to keep up with advances in their field
   

• understand statistics, data analysis and computer packages.

Interests

It helps if biochemists have an interest in:

• science
   

• solving problems relating to biology
   

• working with others towards challenging goals
   

• teaching (if they want to teach biochemistry).