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JOB DESCRIPTIONS from
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Biochemist
Job description
Work conditions
Biochemists study the chemical composition of living
things at the molecular level, as well as the chemical
reactions that regulate life. Their area of focus can vary
widely depending on their own interests and/or the
interests of their employer.
Travel: unlikely during the working day.
There are many potential roles for biochemists within the
scientific community, including working with agricultural,
pharmaceutical, food and drink (including brewing),
health and beauty industries and crime labs.
Work activities
• Gathering data through observation, analysis, and
experiments.
• Conducting research to determine action of foods,
drugs, serums, hormones, and other substances on
tissues and vital processes of living organisms.
• Isolating, analysing and identifying hormones,
vitamins, allergens, minerals, and enzymes and
determining effects on body functions.
• Examining chemical aspects of formation of antibodies,
and conducting research into chemistry of cells and
blood corpuscles.
• Studying chemistry of living processes, such as
mechanisms of development of normal and abnormal
cells, breathing and digestion, and of living energy
changes, such as growth, aging and death.
Working hours: mainly 9 to 5 with additional hours
sometimes required. On-call work may be involved
particularly for those working in hospitals.
Location: mainly in the larger towns and cities.
Opportunities for self-employment: unlikely.
Typical employers
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Agricultural industry
Pharmaceutical, health and beauty industries
Food and drink manufacturers
Crime laboratories
Hospitals.
Career development
Progression occurs by applying for more senior posts
when advertised or by moving into third-level education
as a lecturer. Relocation may be required for career
progression.
Salaries
Salaries vary according to employer.
Republic of Ireland: An experienced biochemist working
in Ireland could earn in excess of €36,000 with very senior
posts attracting salaries in excess of €100,000.
Northern Ireland: A trainee biochemist in Northern
Ireland could earn from £15,500 to £19,500. Salaries vary
according to location and employer.
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JOB DESCRIPTIONS from
For links to further information, jobs and career planning tools visit gradireland.com/careers-advice
Biochemist (continued)
Entry requirements and training
Open only to graduates with relevant degrees.
Specific degree subjects required
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Analytical chemistry
Biochemistry
Biotechnology
Chemistry.
Postgraduate study
A pre-entry postgraduate qualification is not a
requirement.
Specific entry requirements
Normal colour vision is generally required.
Training
Continuous on-the-job training is required to learn new
laboratory techniques and IT developments, to keep up to
date in their specialist area and to keep abreast of health
and safety regulations.
Tips for applications
Gain relevant experience such as a summer internship in
a laboratory environment as an undergraduate.
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