Personal tools

Navigation

You are here: Home › Careers › New Zealand Careers › Careers Descriptions › Physical Sciences Careers › Biochemist

Biochemist

Biochemists study the chemical structure and function of animals, plants and micro-organisms such as bacteria and viruses. They use research to develop medical, industrial and agricultural products.

Tasks & duties

Biochemists may do some or all of the following:

study the chemical make up of living things including genes, proteins and molecules
study chemical processes such as digestion and growth
study the effects of foreign bodies, such as diseases or vaccines, on living things
develop and test new products such as medicines or ingredients
write or supervise the preparation of scientific reports and papers for journals based on observations and experiments
manage laboratory teams and be responsible for quality assurance
work out budget and production costs, and prepare grant applications
collaborate with industry partners to pursue business development opportunities
lecture and supervise research students

Skills & knowledge

Biochemists need to have:

knowledge of cells and organs, and the role of genes and proteins in living things
an understanding of the effects of chemicals, poisons and molecules on living things
knowledge of statistics, chemistry and biology
knowledge of biological chemicals and their properties
research skills
skills in analysing and interpreting research results and other information
practical skills for performing experiments and operating scientific equipment
problem-solving skills
planning and organisational skills
communication skills
writing skills, for writing reports and for publications
maths and computer skills
expertise in writing grant proposals and funding applications
business development skills
management and leadership skills at the senior level

Entry requirements

To become a biochemist you need to have a Bachelor of Science, a Bachelor of Science and Technology, or a Bachelor of Technology majoring in biochemistry. Postgraduate qualifications, such as a Master's degree or Doctorate, are recommended for those wanting to enter research-based positions.

Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter further training. Bursary or NCEA equivalent maths, chemistry, physics and biology are preferred.

Training on the job

Although many skills are learned at university, further laboratory and experimental skills are gained on the job.

Biochemists may also attend domestic and international conferences and seminars, as well as participate in fieldwork.