Biochemist

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Work Tasks

• Study cells to find out what happens to them that makes people sick
• See how foods and drugs affect living things
• Try to solve problems and improve life based on what they learn from their studies
• May work alone or as part of a team
• Work in offices, labs, or classrooms
• Use lab tools like electron microscopes and centrifuges

Salary, Size & Growth

• $83,500 average per year ($40.25 per hour)
• A small occupation (22,800 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow rapidly (3.7% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: A 4-year degree in biochemistry
• Employers Prefer: A Ph.D. degree
• Skills/Courses: College courses include biology, chemistry, math, physics, and computer science.