Biochemistry
Biochemistry occupies a central position in the broad field of life sciences. As a discipline it supplies a framework for understanding biology at a molecular level and offers a spectrum of techniques which are becoming critical for the pursuit of biomedical and agricultural research, as well as investigations in many areas of chemistry and physics.
This major provides basic preparation for careers in teaching, research and development, and professional careers related to the life sciences.
Representative Job Titles and Areas of Specialization
| Air Pollution Specialist * | Pharmaceutical Salesperson * | | Analytical Biochemist * | Pharmacist | | Biochemist * | Pharmacologist | | Bio-Organic Chemist * | Physician | | Clinical Laboratory Technologist * | Plant Biochemist/Physiologist * | | Criminalist * | Quality Control Technician * | | Dentist | Research Assistant * | | Genetic Technician * | Science Librarian | | Geneticist | Technical Writer * | | Immunologist | Toxicologist | | Medical Technologist | Veterinarian | | Microbiologist | Weights And Measures Assistant * | | Nutritionist | |
Nature of the Work
Responsibilities vary widely among the job titles listed above. Those in biochemical research may be involved in the investigation of mechanisms of DNA and cell replication, understanding immunological mechanisms, mapping and regulation of eukaryotic genes, protein sequencing, biochemistry of hemoglobin, regulation of metabolism in plants and animals, nutritional biochemistry, nucleic acid-protein interactions, and structure and function of membranes.
Academicians are responsible for research, teaching, and some administrative duties. Researchers in private industry and government agencies often take on managerial responsibilities later in their careers.
Those in the health professions treat and prevent illness. Serving people, as well as the science of medicine, are their central concerns.
Places of Employment
| Corporations dealing in pharmaceuticals | University and colleges | | Chemicals | Medical research centers | | Biochemical reagents | National research centers | | Medical supplies and diagnostics | Veterans Administration | | Genetic engineering | Agricultural Research Services of the USDA | | Scientific instruments | County & State Depts.of Public Health | | Agricultural chemicals | Publishing houses | | Foods and cosmetics | Hospitals |
Training
Those job titles designated by an asterisk may be obtained with a bachelor's degree depending heavily on the type of coursework completed and experience gained while in school. Many of the job titles mentioned above require specific education beyond the bachelor's degree.
Those considering a career a biochemical research should pursue a doctorate. There are some opportunities for those with the master's degree to work as research biochemists. Some positions at the technician level are available to those with a bachelor's degree.
For further information and/or career counseling contact the Career Center, Veitch Student Center, Northwest Wing, University of California, Riverside, 951.827.3631.
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