Biochemists work in many walks of life - in industry, hospitals, agriculture, research institutes, education and associated areas. There are many areas of everyday life as diverse as medical products and diagnostics, new food and its safety, crop improvement, cosmetics and forensic science that owe their development or even existence to biochemists.
 Industry
Pharmaceutical, food, brewing, biotechnology and agrochemical companies all need and employ biochemists to develop new products and to monitor the production, quality control and safety of existing ones.
 Medicine
Hospitals, public health laboratories and medical research institutes, as well as the pharmaceutical industry, all require biochemists. Here they provide a diagnostic service, carrying out tests on blood, urine and other body fluids, alongside researching the underlying causes of disease and the methods of treatment.
Agriculture and the Environment
 Biochemists and biotechnologists, who often have a biochemistry degree, working in agriculture have been responsible for many developments, such as pest-resistant crops, improvements in crop yields and tomatoes that keep better. They also monitor the environment. Employers include seed companies, local government, the Civil Service and water authorities.
Education
All levels of education offer prospects for biochemists. The combination of biology and chemistry, along with the training in numerical and analytical skills that is given in any area of science, makes biochemistry ideal for teaching throughout the school age range. There are also opportunities for more advanced teaching, usually associated with research, in universities and colleges, and medical, dental and veterinary schools.
Away from Science
A science background can be an excellent starting point for many other careers. Biochemistry is a numerate subject that develops analytical thinking, creativity in problem solving, and the ability to handle large amounts of complex information - skills required in jobs in all walks of life including, for example, sales and marketing, accountancy and finance, journalism, and patent work. Biochemists have become successful popular authors and even a national president! |
