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The training required for a molecular biologist varies. Entry-level positions for molecular biologists require at least a bachelor's degree, while research positions in the field typically require a master's or doctoral degree. Successful molecular biologists have an excellent understanding of subjects such as cell physiology, chemistry, genetics, and physics.
Molecular Biologist Career Info
In order for students to become molecular biologists, they must obtain at least a bachelor's degree. Research careers in this field require an advanced degree. Molecular biologists study biochemical processes within living cells of animals, people, plants, and other living organisms. Knowledge of chemistry, physics, and cell physiology are required to succeed in this scientific field. Molecular biologists work with advanced equipment, and use deductive reasoning and critical-thinking skills to solve complex problems.
| Education Requirements | Bachelor's degree for entry-level positions; master's and doctoral degrees for researchers |
| Other Requirements | Completion of a research project during doctoral program |
| Job Growth (2019-2029)* | 4% (for biochemists and biophysicists) |
| Median Salary (2019)* | $94,490(for biochemists and biophysicists) |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
What Does a Molecular Biologist Do?
Whether studying cell processes and codes in humans, animals, plants, or other living organisms, molecular biologists are needed in a spectrum of career fields. They utilize their knowledge of chemistry, cell physiology, genetics, physics, and other sciences in their career studies.
These professionals must experiment to gain results and push the boundaries of their research areas. Biotech companies might need molecular biologists to genetically engineer new crops to improve their health and consumption rate. Other molecular biologists may develop a new way to test the validity of drugs used to stimulate safe gene growth and fight off disease.
Molecular biologists need to understand gene sequencing, cell signaling, and gene expression, as well as organize and differentiate cells. Molecular biologist responsibilities include accurately recording information and interpreting results, which are then passed on and communicated with others for non-scientific consumption.
Molecular Biology Job Duties
Molecular biologist job duties include working with advanced lab equipment, like cloning kits, DNA synthesizers, electron guns, and temperature cyclers. They regularly emphasize deductive reasoning and critical thinking in their tasks, as they attempt to enact change to processes and reinforce new methodology in solving problems. For instance, a molecular scientist might be focused on how to change genetic properties in order to assist in curing or slowing disease infestation.
Job opportunities exist in private industries, universities, and government agencies. In private industry, molecular biologists can serve as consultants while advising on scientific issues, such as environmental problems. For the government, they can research new ways to treat and diagnose disease. In universities, professors are needed to contribute to research within their fields, push new minds to grow the field, and instruct students on how to conduct research properly and question existing models of scientific thinking.
What does a biologist do on a daily basis?
- Design and carry out experiments at the molecular and cellular level
- Analyze and interpret discoveries
- Utilize computer programs
- Report findings in reports and academic journals
- Work as part of a research team as well as alone
- Keep abreast of scientific literature and attend professional conferences
Molecular Biologist Education
While there is not a singular molecular science degree, the following degree options are all fields that can be related to molecular biology.
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biochemistry
- Biophysics
- Engineering
How long does it take to become a molecular biologist?
To gain the molecular biologist education and training required for the profession, prospective students will have to obtain both a degree and experience working in a laboratory setting. In order to accomplish this, it can take around four to eleven years, depending on your desired job in this field.
Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences
These 4-year programs can provide the groundwork for those who want to become molecular biologists. Obtaining a bachelor's degree in biology may also be sufficient. Students gain experience in a laboratory, which is essential since research is necessary for molecular biologists. Other common courses in these programs include:
- Genetics
- Biology
- Physiology
- Chemistry
Master of Science in Molecular and Cell Biology
These 2-year programs serve to further enhance knowledge in molecular and cell biology. They can be used as springboards for those who want to enter doctoral degree programs, which can lead to research and teaching opportunities. Common courses include:
- Cell signals and structures
- Computational biology
- Molecular biology
Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular and Cellular Biology
These programs take as many as five years to complete. They include both advanced studies in molecular biology and laboratory work. The majority of the second half of these programs focuses on full-time research projects. Common courses include:
- Advanced biochemistry
- Stem cell research
- Multiple lab rotations
Molecular Biologist Salary and Job Outlook
How much do molecular biologists make?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported a median annual salary of $94,490 for biochemists and biophysicists as of May 2019. Payscale.com reports a median salary for molecular biologists of $60,223 as of December 2020.
What is the demand for molecular biologists?
The BLS projected molecular biologist job growth (as part of all occupations for biochemists and biophysicists) as 4% from 2019-2029, which is as fast as average for all occupations in this field.
What a molecular biologist does requires a solid knowledge of biochemical processes, and also an understanding of how to use complex lab equipment, such as cloning kits and DNA synthesizers. Some popular industries for professional molecular biologists include consulting services, research and development, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
