How much does a biochemist make?

In the U.S., pay can change with experience and education. The employer and location matter too, because pay differs by industry and region.

Study the chemical composition or physical principles of living cells and organisms, their electrical and mechanical energy, and related phenomena. May conduct research to further understanding of the complex chemical combinations and reactions involved in metabolism, reproduction, growth, and heredity. May determine the effects of foods, drugs, serums, hormones, and other substances on tissues and vital processes of living organisms.

What's a typical day like?

In a lab, a biochemist prepares biological samples, runs experiments with lab instruments, and checks results on a computer. They discuss findings with teammates and write reports or research papers.

Study biology, chemistry, physics, and math in U.S. high school, then earn a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry or a related field and gain lab experience. A Ph.D. is needed for independent research; many graduates start in temporary postdoctoral jobs.

Graduate degree or long training (preparation level 5 of 5)

Good for people who like figuring things out and building and doing.

Johns Hopkins biochemists found that some E. coli proteins cannot be refolded—even by the cell’s protein “helper” molecules.