Kaitaia College
Biochemist Kairarau Matū Koiora
Biochemists study the chemical structure and function of animals, plants and micro-organisms such as bacteria and viruses. They use this research to develop medical, industrial and agricultural products.
Biochemists may do some or all of the following:
- study the chemical make-up of living cells including genes, proteins and molecules
- study chemical processes such as cell development and disease
- study the effects of diseases or vaccines on living things
- develop and test new products such as medicines or ingredients
- write scientific reports and papers for journals
- manage laboratory teams.
Physical Requirements
Biochemists need to have good eyesight (with or without corrective lenses) and good hand-eye co-ordination as they work with small amounts of substances.
Useful Experience
Useful experience for biochemists includes:
- work with medicines or chemicals
- work as a science technician or medical laboratory technician
- other laboratory work
- experience writing reports.
Personal Qualities
Biochemists need to be:
- enquiring and observant
- self-motivated
- patient and detail-oriented
- creative and innovative
- good at problem solving
- good at writing and communicating
- good at planning and organising.
Useful Experience
Useful experience for biochemists includes:
- work with medicines or chemicals
- work as a science technician or medical laboratory technician
- other laboratory work
- experience writing reports.
Subject Recommendations
A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter further training. NCEA Level 3 in maths, chemistry, physics and biology are recommended.
Biochemists can earn around $42K-$75K per year per year.
Biochemists may progress to senior positions from working as technicians, become project leaders or do postgraduate study to specialise in a particular research area. They may also move into biotechnology, food technology, medical sales or teaching roles.
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