How to Become a Biochemist
Study the chemistry of living systems, driving discoveries in medicine, biotech, and agriculture. It typically requires a doctoral degree, with a median salary of $127,410 per year and faster than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$127,410/yr
Job growth
5%
Openings / yr
2,900
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Laboratory Research
- Protein Analysis
- Science
- Data Analysis
- Scientific Writing
Helpful certifications
- PhD (research track)
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Work-life balance
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Stress level
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Satisfaction
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Related careers
- Physicist$172,250 median
- Natural Sciences Manager$167,220 median
- Biostatistician$105,650 median
- Statistician$105,650 median
- Biomedical Scientist / Researcher$103,410 median
- Meteorologist (Atmospheric Scientist)$99,070 median
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Biochemist make?
The median pay for a Biochemist is $127,410 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Biochemist?
The usual entry point is a doctoral degree. Common majors are Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, and Molecular Biology.
Is Biochemist a growing field?
The BLS projects faster than average demand for this role, about 5% over the decade, with roughly 2,900 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Biochemist use most?
Common skills for this role are Laboratory Research, Protein Analysis, Science, Data Analysis, and Scientific Writing.
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.