Molecular Biotechnology

Molecular biologists or cellular biologists (sometimes called biochemists) study the molecular mechanisms by which cells feed, divide, and grow.

They may design molecular or cellular laboratory experiments, interpret results, write grant applications, perform laboratory procedures like DNA cloning and extraction, or conduct research on cell organization and function, including mechanisms of gene expression, cellular bioinformatics, cell signaling, or cell differentiation.

They typically work in laboratories and offices to conduct experiments and analyze the results. Most work full time.

Molecular biologists need a Ph.D. to work in independent research and development. Many Ph.D. holders begin their careers in temporary postdoctoral research positions. Bachelor’s and master’s degree holders qualify for some entry-level positions in biochemistry and biophysics.

The median annual wage is $107,460 in May 2023 and employment is projected to grow 9 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

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Geneticists research and study the inheritance of traits at the molecular, organism or population level. May evaluate or treat patients with genetic disorders.

Sample of reported job titles: Cardiovascular Geneticist, Medical Geneticist, Research Scientist, Scientist

Geneticists may supervise or direct the work of other geneticists, biologists, technicians, or biometricians working on genetics research projects. They may also plan or conduct basic genomic and biological research related to areas such as regulation of gene expression, protein interactions, metabolic networks, and nucleic acid or protein complexes.

Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).

Mean wage in 2023 was $43.80 hourly and $91,100 annual. Projected growth over the next 10 years is faster than average (6% to 8%)

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Bioengineers and biomedical engineers combine engineering principles with sciences to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems, and software.

They work in manufacturing, in research facilities, and for a variety of other employers. Most work full time, and some work more than 40 hours per week.

A bachelor’s degree in molecular biotechnology, paired with an advanced degree in an related engineering field would prepare you well for this type of career field. 

The median annual wage was $100,730 in May 2023.

Employment  is projected to grow 7 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.

Medical scientists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health. They often use clinical trials and other investigative methods to reach their findings. Medical scientists form hypotheses and develop experiments. They study the causes of diseases and other health problems in a variety of ways.

They can be clinical pharmacologists who research new drug therapies for health problems, such as seizure disorders and Alzheimer’s disease, medical pathologists who research the human body and tissues, such as how cancer progresses or how certain issues relate to genetics, or toxicologists who study the negative impacts of chemicals and pollutants on human health.

Medical scientists typically work in offices and laboratories. Most work full time, and some work more than 40 hours per week.

Medical scientists typically have a Ph.D., usually in biology or a related life science. Some get a medical degree instead of, or in addition to, a Ph.D.

The median annual wage for medical scientists was $100,890 in May 2023. Employment of medical scientists is projected to grow 11 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations