Bioinformatics Scientists
Bioinformatics scientists conduct research that combines biology, computer science, and data analysis to solve problems in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and medical technology. They work in research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and hospitals, designing databases and developing algorithms to process and analyze large genomic datasets.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against bioinformatics scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves writing and testing code to analyze DNA sequences and protein structures, troubleshooting software tools, and collaborating with lab scientists on research questions. Bioinformatics scientists spend time in meetings discussing project progress, documenting their methods, and presenting findings to colleagues. They may also spend hours debugging algorithms or optimizing database queries to handle growing datasets.
Who this work suits
Holland code ICR. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You'd be well-suited to this work if you enjoy investigating complex problems systematically and organizing information into structured systems. Success requires comfort with detailed, methodical work that follows established protocols and standards, combined with strong analytical thinking.
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
Openings right now
- Sr. Bioinformatics Scientist · Veracyte · USA · Remote
- Senior Bioinformatics Scientist · Veracyte · USA · Remote
- Bioinformatics Scientist · Natera · USA · Remote
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $98,700 | $121,680 | $144,890 | 4,970 |
| California | $86,090 | $113,530 | $154,150 | 11,880 |
| Delaware | $81,470 | $113,400 | $151,710 | — |
| Connecticut | $83,480 | $111,940 | $138,900 | 170 |
| Washington | $83,100 | $108,110 | $131,780 | 2,620 |
| Massachusetts | $84,390 | $107,100 | $162,180 | 2,930 |
| Alaska | $89,170 | $106,870 | $120,240 | 370 |
| New Jersey | $82,690 | $104,750 | $128,790 | 540 |
| Maine | $82,490 | $104,570 | $118,430 | 340 |
| New York | $83,420 | $104,120 | $133,750 | 2,520 |
| Rhode Island | $89,520 | $101,750 | $130,480 | 100 |
| Pennsylvania | $77,520 | $100,780 | $123,920 | 1,810 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) — Society of Wetland Scientists
- Andrology Laboratory Scientist (ALS(AAB)) — AAB - Board of Registry
- Certified Environmental Scientist (CES) — National Registry of Environmental Professionals
- Embryology Laboratory Scientist (ELS(AAB)) — AAB - Board of Registry
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 bioinformatics scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-1029.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.