Biochemist

A biochemist is a scientist primarily concerned with the chemistry of bio­logical processes. The four main branches of biochemistry are: a) nucleic acids, b) proteins, c) carbohydrates, and d) lipids. Most biochemists will generally specialize in one of these areas. The training and scientific focus of a biochemist is what distinguishes him or her from others in related disciplines (molecular genetics, cell biology, analytic chemistry, and bio­physics). Biochemists deal chiefly with scientific research of specific bio­chemical structures, interactions, or reactions. Two specific examples of research biochemists are enzymologists, who study catalytic proteins, and an­alytical biochemists, which may, for example, develop new DNA separation technologies.

Minimal training for a technician-level position in biochemistry gener­ally requires a B.S. in biochemistry or chemistry, while those wishing more professional autonomy should attain a graduate degree. Ph.D.-level bio­chemists achieve the greatest autonomy. Before attaining their first inde­pendent position they will usually undergo additional training after completion of their in Ph.D., a postdoctoral position.

Biochemists work in the biopharmaceutical and agricultural biotech­nology industries, academia, clinical laboratories, and a variety of regulatory and military posts in government.

References

American Chemical Society: ChemCenter. http://www.acs.org/servlet/ACSHome Page.