ANZSCO Work Type Detail Sheets

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Biochemist

234513 · Light
Career data Verified

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

Most common salary $74k – $129k
Upper salary up to $181k
Training 3-5 years
View on Tahatū ↗ Data: Tahatū Career Navigator, CC BY 4.0
Related careers
Molecular biologist ↗

Molecular biologists study the cells and molecules of living organisms and how they interact. They do experiments in product development and the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

$69k – $93k
Data: Tahatū Career Navigator, CC BY 4.0

Description

Studies the biochemistry of living organisms and the molecular structure and function of related components.

Typical work tasks

  • Studies the forms and structures of bodily organs and tissues by systematic observation, dissection and microscopic examination; investigates the chemical structure and function of living cells and their isolated components, organs and tissues in humans, animals, plants, and micro-organisms; examines micro-organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, yeast and their enzymes, and uses the knowledge gained to create and develop new, and improve existing, products, materials and processes.

Typical work environment

  • Works indoors in offices and laboratories within dairy and natural products industries, universities, crown research institutions and industrial or research facilities.
  • Works with a range of chemicals and other substances that may include diseased organisms and body fluids. Protective equipment and clothing and adherence to safety procedures will be required.
  • Works in adequately lit, heated, ventilated and clean, well maintained workspaces.

Typical physical and mental demands

  • Sedentary to light physical demand.
  • Frequent sitting in offices and laboratories.
  • Stands and walks frequently in offices, in fieldwork situations and in laboratories.
  • There is an occasional requirement for lifting, carrying or pulling when assembling research equipment.
  • Occasional bending, squatting, crouching, stretching and reaching may be required during fieldwork.
  • Occasional contact with skin irritants and water may be required in some environments.
  • Frequent repetitive hand and finger movements are required when using hand-held objects, tools and equipment including writing instruments, computers and general laboratory equipment.
  • Driving may be required to reach fieldwork locations but driving is not typically a significant component of the job.
  • Mental skills necessary include a high level of cognitive functioning with technical, computing, research, laboratory, analytical, mathematical, report writing, communication, problem solving, critical thinking and decision-making capabilities.
Entry signal Reviewed

Requires a substantial formal qualification.

Entry barrier Formal qualification
Licence / registration No licence required
ANZSCO skill level 1
Next-day ready No

How this was determined (model-generated): Tertiary qual or 5yrs experience; biochemistry degree-level, no licence.

Entry Requirements

  • A relevant tertiary qualification or at least five years applicable experience. In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required (ANZSCO Skill Level 1).

Further Comments

  • There are opportunities for flexibility of movement.