Biochemists and Biophysicists
Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical properties of living cells, tissues, and organisms. They investigate metabolic processes, energy transfer, genetic mechanisms, and molecular structures. Most work in university laboratories, government research facilities, pharmaceutical companies, or biotech firms, conducting experiments and analyzing data to advance biological and medical understanding.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against biochemists and biophysicists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A biochemist might spend mornings running laboratory experiments—preparing samples, operating analytical instruments, or culturing cells—and afternoons analyzing results and updating research documentation. The week typically includes literature reviews, team meetings to discuss findings, equipment maintenance, and grant writing. Work varies between hands-on bench research and computational analysis depending on the project phase and specialization.
Who this work suits
Holland code IRC. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
This work suits people who enjoy investigative problem-solving and hands-on experimentation with physical systems and materials. You tend to be detail-oriented, comfortable with complex data and theory, and driven by curiosity about how life works at the molecular level.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | $91,040 | $157,390 | $186,000 | 370 |
| California | $105,920 | $139,580 | $179,990 | 3,240 |
| Tennessee | $115,270 | $134,560 | $188,180 | 60 |
| Pennsylvania | $105,490 | $134,090 | $171,450 | 2,750 |
| Connecticut | $98,220 | $132,670 | $158,370 | 540 |
| Massachusetts | $103,040 | $131,600 | $165,150 | 14,890 |
| New Jersey | $98,670 | $122,620 | $136,890 | 2,570 |
| District of Columbia | $62,540 | $120,090 | $182,100 | 70 |
| New Hampshire | $86,220 | $109,770 | $136,220 | 200 |
| Michigan | $77,440 | $109,340 | $141,590 | 730 |
| South Carolina | $83,190 | $109,080 | $127,860 | 60 |
| Wisconsin | $96,720 | $106,480 | $124,190 | 170 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Clinical Chemist — National Registry of Certified Chemists
- Toxicological Technologist — National Registry of Certified Chemists
- Certified Advanced Biotherapies Professional (CABP) — Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies
- Chemical Hygiene Officer — National Registry of Certified Chemists
- Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) — Board for Global EHS Credentialing
- Registered Environmental Professional (REP) — National Registry of Environmental Professionals
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against biochemists and biophysicists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-1021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.