Do you want to be a...

Biochemist

Year 12 Preferred University Course Subject Prerequisites

Biochemists study the chemistry of living systems to increase scientific knowledge and develop ways to apply this knowledge in areas such as medicine, veterinary science, agriculture, environmental science and manufacturing.

Biochemistry provides a basis for all the life sciences.

TASKS

    Biochemists may perform the following tasks:

  • study the chemical processes that occur within individual cells
  • study processes that involve whole organisms, such as digestion and growth
  • undertake detailed chemical analysis using sophisticated instruments and techniques
  • prepare, or supervise the preparation of, scientific reports and papers for journals based on observations and experiments.

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • enjoy chemistry, biology and mathematics
  • able to think logically and analytically
  • able to work independently or as part of a team
  • creative and imaginative

Interest Area

Scientific Figures/Computational

SPECIALISATIONS

Clinical Biochemist - works in hospital laboratories where they study the chemical composition of various tissues and bodily fluids to assist in the study, diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

Industrial Biochemist - works in laboratories in analytical and research work, such as checking the purity of food and beverages, or the enzymic production of fuels from waste products through fermentation procedures.

Research Biochemist - works in laboratories in universities, biotechnology companies, and agricultural, medical and veterinary institutes. They study areas such as the metabolism, growth and reproduction of fungi, bacteria, plants and animals, as well as the organisation of viruses. They frequently use the latest genetic engineering and molecular-biological techniques.

EDUCATION & TRAINING


Year 12 Preferred University Course Subject Prerequisites

To become a biochemist you usually have to complete a science or applied science degree at university with a major in biochemistry, environmental chemistry, molecular biology or a related field. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, biology, chemistry, earth and environmental science, mathematics and physics are normally required. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Biochemists work in scientific research institutes, universities, and federal, state and territory government organisations such as the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).

Biochemists also work in medical research centres and hospital laboratories, and for food processing or drug manufacturing companies. Due to the high degree of specialisation required in this field, completion of a postgraduate degree is generally required for advancement to senior scientific positions.

Employment is affected by factors such as the amount of funding provided for research in both the public and private sectors, and the general level of economic activity. Competition for jobs is strong.

Similar Jobs



More Information - External Links

Job Outlook for Biochemist Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Royal Australian Chemical Institute Inc


Other Jobs by Interest Areas...

Artistic Creative Jobs Clerical Administrative Jobs Figures Computational Jobs Helping and Community Jobs Influencing and Personal Jobs Literary Jobs Medical Jobs Outdoor Jobs Practical Manual Jobs Scientific Jobs Technical Engineering Jobs


Job Search? Look for and press ENTER.

Remember: This is an EXACT match, so please use whole words only

This search looks for a match with the WHOLE keyword/s you enter. In other words, abbreviations like vet won't find veterinarian. Slang terms like brickie won't locate bricklayer 🙂


COL's JOB Guide


Please contact us to notify errors or suggest improvements.


Australia's Careers OnLine : Professional Careers Advice for job seekers on the 'net since 1995!