Chemical processes in living things are analyzed by biologists.metabolism and reproduction are studied by these scientists.The fields of medicine and agriculture are aided by the work of professionals in this area.Even if you don't start planning for a career in chemistry in high school, you can still become a biochemist with hard work and dedication.
Step 1: A good foundation in the sciences is needed.
Natural and physical sciences are some of the sciences that you should take in high school.Once you start learning at the university level, these classes will serve as the basis of your professional learning in the future and will prepare you to begin your degree in biochemistry.At this point, all science related fields will be helpful.Make sure you take any science-related classes that you can.Advanced Placement classes are more rigorous and you will learn more from them.
Step 2: You should learn math.
You will need a basic understanding of math and mathematical principles to be a biochemist.When studying certain concepts in chemistry, math knowledge will be useful.It's best to focus on math subjects.
Step 3: You can learn effective oral and written communication.
Biochemists need to communicate with their coworkers in a way that is easy to understand.Communication skills can lead to problems with research experiments.If you want to improve your written communication skills, take your English classes seriously.If you want to become a better public speaker in your career as a Biochemist, you should take a Drama or Speech class.
Step 4: Take a look at potential college programs.
While you are still in high school, you should think about what college you want to attend.You will need to take courses in biochemistry and other sciences if you apply to a school that has a well-respected science program.You can increase your chances of getting accepted to a program by applying to several colleges.
Step 5: Pick your major.
Not all 4-year colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in biochemistry.Advanced courses are needed for the degree and major.Getting a head start and learning things you will eventually need to know is a huge benefit.You can get a degree in biology, chemistry, or physics if your university doesn't offer it.General chemistry, general physics, introduction to biology, environmental science, anthropology, and organic chemistry are some of the classes that should be taken.
Step 6: Do you want to be a lab assistant?
It is a good idea to get some experience early on in your career as a biochemist, because most of the work you will do will involve doing some type of research in a lab.If your university allows undergrads to work as student laboratory assistants, find out.Being a lab assistant will help you in your application to graduate programs.
Step 7: Outside research can be done.
A core component of being a biochemist is research, which is why it is important to do it early.Research experience will increase your chances of acceptance to graduate schools.If you want to do research, you should seek out senior professors.Before you speak with them, you should take a look at their CV and research interests.Ask them if there are any opportunities for you to work with them.
Step 8: Gain more experience in the field.
You need to gain experience in the field of biochemistry while you are taking science courses and working towards your undergraduate degree.You can apply for summer internships, work study programs for students in the Science department, or any other kind of job that will give you some experience to put on your CV.
Step 9: You should apply to graduate school.
You should check the admissions criteria of the schools you are interested in applying to.It is important to get good letters of recommendation from senior faculty members and department chairs.In order to apply to some graduate programs, you may have to take the Graduate Record Examination.Make sure you find out what you need to do in order to take the exam, register for it, and get your scores ready before the due date for your graduate application.
Step 10: You can get a master's degree.
A master's degree in biochemistry includes time in the classroom, field work, laboratory research, and the presentation of a thesis.A lot of time will be spent in the laboratory to prepare you for your career as a biochemist.It usually takes two more years for a master's degree to be earned.
Step 11: Gain work experience.
If you want to get a job when you graduate, you need to continue working in the field of biochemistry.Try getting an internship at a prestigious company that is well-known for hiring biochemists or try to get a job in a lab doing research in biochemistry
Step 12: Consider getting a doctorate degree.
You can get entry-level jobs as a biochemist without a PhD.If you want to teach at the university level or do independent research of your own, you will need to get a doctorate degree.A PhD requires a lot of time and dedication and can take four to six years to complete.You will spend a lot of time in the laboratory during your PhD program, and you will be asked to teach a few undergraduate classes.
Step 13: Postdoctoral research positions are available.
A post-doc position is a great way for biochemists to continue their education and research without committing to a long-term job.Gain more experience in the field and publish your research findings with these jobs.You need a lot of published studies to find permanent work in laboratory settings.
Step 14: You can apply for a lab technician job.
People with only a bachelor's degree in the field are more likely to get jobs in laboratories.The lab technicians are supervised by a more qualified scientist.You can find these jobs on various websites.
Step 15: You can get a job with a government agency.
Many governmental agencies want to hire biochemists.The government is in charge of things like water regulation and food and drug regulation.The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Food and Drug Administration, National Science Foundation, and the National Institutes of Health are some of the governmental agencies to check for employment opportunities.
Step 16: If you want a teaching position, apply.
It is possible to return to the university in a teaching capacity as a biochemist.You apply through the school.You will need a master's degree in this or a related field to teach at the university level.A new generation of biochemists will need the skills you teach.There are websites where higher education jobs are frequently posted.