Biochemist

Overview

Who is Biochemist?

Biochemists are those professionals who study the chemical nature of the biological processes occurring at the cellular/molecular level in living cells of a variety of life forms, including humans, plants, and animals. Using the combined knowledge of the fields of biology, physiology, and chemistry, they examine the chemistry of all living systems. Simply put, they apply methods of chemistry to understand the biological processes of living organisms that are responsible for producing the complexity of life. The applications of this field are far and many since it encompasses all living cells, including medicine, biotechnology, veterinary science, and agriculture as well as the emerging field of bioengineering.

A biochemist is interested in studying organism structure, performance, growth, reproduction, metabolization, and the mechanisms of disease and disruption of the same by evaluating the basis for any changes in the living cells of the organism. By understanding and recording the effects of genetics, food, environmental toxins, and drugs/medicine at the molecular level through laboratory experiments, a biochemist contributes to improving the quality of life for many. It is their work that provides explanations for the occurrence of diseases as well as suggests methods to prevent, treat, or cure the same. They can be involved in basic, exploratory research that seeks to increase scientific knowledge about biochemical processes or take up applied research to solve practical problems.

Typical day at work

What does Biochemist do?

Biochemists and biophysicists research the chemical and physical principles that govern living organisms and biological processes such cell development, growth, heredity, and disease. Cell division, DNA, and heredity are all aspects of cell development. They research how specific chemical processes occur in tissues and keep track of pharmaceutical effects. A biochemist's goal is to comprehend living beings at the molecular level in order to improve our quality of life. This could entail doing laboratory studies to generate effective treatments or collecting cell samples from animals and plants in the field to better understand how genetic features are passed along further.

Typically, a biochemist is tasked with the following responsibilities:

1. Examine the structure of molecules using equipment such as microscopes and lasers or computer modelling
2. Collaborate with fellow colleagues as well as experts from varying fields to conduct research 
3. Independently plan and design complex experiments to study the effects of relevant substances/conditions on the cells of a particular living organism
4. Manage the laboratory and its equipment, ensuring that the quantity and accuracy of the same are in accordance with the requirements. 
5. Oversee the work of the laboratory technicians to monitor the quality of experiments and adherence to scientific standards
6. Maintain thorough documentation regarding the experiment by writing technical reports describing the method used, observations noted, and the results obtained
7. Communicate the findings of the research by presenting in conferences, publishing research papers, and write scholarly articles
8. Design and build equipment for use in experiments, update protocols, develop new processes to increase the efficiency

Abilities & aptitude needed

What are the skills, abilities & aptitude needed to become Biochemist?

Intellectual abilities, such as research and analytical abilities: When compared to other graduates applying for similar jobs, interpreting lab data, examining reports, and understanding statistics provides you with valuable analytical experience. Biochemists and biophysicists use sound reasoning and judgement to draw conclusions from experimental results Data handling and technical knowledge gained from using a variety of biochemistry-related and generic computer programmes constitute technical and computer literacy.

Interpersonal, teamwork, and leadership abilities: independence, management of others, and accountability Your previous experiences working in a lab, giving group presentations, and mentoring other students put you in an excellent position to tackle any career that requires you to work both as part of a team and independently. Biochemists and biophysicists must write and publish reports and research papers, present their findings, and communicate effectively with team members. Biochemists and biophysicists frequently work on interdisciplinary research teams and must collaborate effectively with others to achieve a common goal.

Many people serve as team leaders and must be able to motivate and direct their colleagues. Working to tight lab deadlines with fragile reactants gives you an above-average sense of timing when compared to other graduates. The ability to plan and organise your time, which is essential in those hectic lab situations during your degree, demonstrates to employers that you are a level-headed and efficient worker. Biochemists and biophysicists must be able to carry out scientific experiments and analyses with precision and accuracy.

Communication skills: Because communication skills are required by almost all employers, your previous experience in writing reports, giving oral presentations, and listening to complex instructions and lectures has provided you with the communication skills required for many professions. Previous work experience, presentation skills, and even personal interests can all help to foster creativity. Employers know that you have the mental tools to find novel solutions to many problems and to adapt easily based on your practical work and presentations during your degree.

Problem solving: An essential skill for any scientist and for careers in both science and non-science, the ability to look at a problem from multiple perspectives and find the best solution is highly valued by employers in any field. Bioscience degrees provide a wealth of problem-solving experience due to the necessity of adapting and modifying an experimental protocol to the results of lab and practical work.

Math abilities: Biochemists and biophysicists frequently use complex equations and formulas in their work. They must have a solid foundation in math, including calculus and statistics.

Perseverance: Biochemists and biophysicists must be thorough in their research and problem solving. Scientific research entails a significant amount of trial and error, and biochemists and biophysicists must avoid becoming discouraged in their work.

Time management abilities: When conducting research, biochemists and biophysicists are frequently required to meet deadlines. They must be able to manage time and prioritise tasks effectively while maintaining a high level of work quality.

Courses

Which course I can pursue?