As a biochemist , you study the chemistry of living organisms in order to understand basic biological processes in animals , plants and microbes . Why? To increase scientific knowledge and develop ways to apply the knowledge in areas such as medicine , veterinary science , agriculture, environmental science and manufacturing . It's a field of study that provides a basis for all the life sciences.
Besides studying chemical processes that occur within individual cells and processes , such as digestion and growth , you undertake detailed chemical analysis and prepare or supervise preparation of scientific reports and papers for journals based on your studies.
You can specialise as a clinical biochemist working in hospital laboratories studying chemical compositions of tissues and body fluids to assist the study , diagnosis and treatment of diseases ; industrial biochemist working in analytical and research work , such as checking purity of food and beverages ; or research biochemist working in universities , biotechnology companies and agricultural , medical and veterinary institutes studying things like metabolism , growth and reproduction of fungi , bacteria , plants and animals .
What qualifications/skills do I need ?
You need a degree in biochemistry or medical biochemistry . Postgraduate qualification is advantageous if you want to specialise in a specific area .
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