Biomedical Science Jobs

Biomedical science is a fascinating field, as you get to learn about the genetics of the human body, understand how diseases work, and find cures and treatments for fighting off those illnesses and diseases. And with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 12% growth rate for biomedical science jobs within the next eight years, there will be plenty of opportunities for everyone to exploit. However, finding a suitable job is never easy. Luckily, we’re here to help by providing you with a filtered list of the leading biomedical sciences jobs. All you have to do is scroll through the listing below, and continue reading to find out everything there is to know about biomedical science.

Everything You Need to Know About Biomedical Science Careers

Medical breakthroughs are most frequent in biomedical sciences. It is a field that helps us understand the human body and mind through medical research. Studying biomedical sciences will enable us to develop and create new therapies and treatments for various human disabilities, illnesses, and diseases. This means that careers in the biomedical science field are usually tied with jobs in health science. Every year, the world spends more than $240 billion on research and development. The investment that is poured into this field comes from public and private organizations with one goal in mind — to explore different scientific issues and find solutions to the world’s health problems. These biomedical research jobs are of the utmost importance to research medical conditions like cancer, diabetes, stress, hepatitis, meningitis, and heart physiology, among others. Now, let’s take a look at what types of jobs you can expect to find before we delve deeper into the requirements, responsibilities, and earning potential of the top ones.

Types of Jobs in Biomedical Science

The biomedical science field is immense and offers a wide range of careers to choose from, depending on your degree level. You can find jobs in biomedical engineering, life sciences, and physiological sciences where biomedical science generally specializes. Currently, there’s a high demand for biomedical science jobs. And according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ projections, there will be at least 60,700 new positions available within the next eight years. Here’s a list of the most common jobs you can find:

1. Entry Level Biomedical Science Jobs

Entry-level work is always a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable experience, especially for college graduates. The biomedical science field offers a range of entry-level gigs, such as laboratory technicians, physiotherapists, junior physicians, microbiologists, and toxicologists, among many others. Salaries are also solid, but the most noteworthy fact is that 60% of all graduates with a biomedical science degree find immediate employment in entry-level positions. While working as an entry-level employee, you should also consider taking part in various research studies in order to increase your knowledge and build a more impressive resume.

2. Biomedical Scientist Jobs

If you have an analytical mind and strong research skills, then this position is ideal for you. These professionals are in charge of the research, analysis, and testing part covering a wide range of matters, including human tissues, bodily fluids, organs, viruses, and the immune system. They typically work in a laboratory setting operating automated systems and different medical equipment to test, analyze, and study samples, as well as the effects of various treatments and drugs.

3. Clinical Scientist Jobs

A clinical scientist job description involves the coordination and planning of research and clinical trials. This research aims to advance human health, creating immunization procedures, standards, and medical protocols. Educational requirements are quite high, as employers are looking for candidates with a Ph.D. who have also passed a licensing exam. The pros of working as a clinical scientist are lucrative salaries and the ability to work with a variety of employers in different environments.

4. Clinical Laboratory Scientist Jobs

Clinical laboratory scientists undergo an examination of fluids and cells for parasites, bacteria, or other aberrations. They use computer technology and medical tools to conduct an examination and then communicate the results with other medical personnel. A clinical laboratory scientist salary is high above the national average, and the entry requirements for this position are not too demanding either. Even though an Associate’s degree is sufficient, some employers require candidates to possess a Bachelor’s degree.

5. Clinical Research Scientist Jobs

Clinical research scientists conduct lab research and study diseases and illnesses to come up with better treatment and diagnosis plans. Part of the clinical research scientist job description is to operate specialized machines and hazardous materials. Even though the lab is the most familiar work environment, clinical research scientists may be required to directly contact patients to administer experimental treatments.

6. Forensic Scientist Jobs

If you have a methodical approach to work and an explorative mind, then consider applying for a forensic scientist job. These professionals have one of the best working balances, as they often work in laboratories, offices, and courtrooms. The primary tasks of forensic scientists are to analyze samples, sort evidence, record findings, collaborate with outside agencies, present results to court judges, and research and develop new techniques.

7. Forensic Science Technician Jobs

A forensic science technician’s role is similar to that of a forensic scientist. They work for police departments in the crime scene investigation unit, where they handle crime scene evidence. The work these professionals put in is of vital importance for catching and convicting suspected criminals. Apart from working in a laboratory, forensic sciences technicians also appear in courtrooms frequently in order to testify. That is if they specialize in biochemistry, DNA analysis, fingerprinting, or handwriting analysis.

8. Medicinal Chemist Jobs

Medicinal chemists are responsible for the research and development part of chemical compounds that are then used as pharmaceutical drugs. Similar to the other occupations in this field, medicinal chemists can also enjoy a substantial salary. However, to become eligible for such high-end wages, candidates would need to own a Master’s degree or a Ph.D.

9. Microbiologist Jobs

The job of microbiologists is to research all microorganisms to fully understand how our lives are affected by these microorganisms and how we can utilize them. Part of the microbiologist job description is also to document all findings, write detailed reports, and conduct supervision of the laboratory staff. Those who possess outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, and have a keen eye and meticulous approach, will thrive in these types of microbiology jobs.

10. Toxicologist Jobs

Toxicologists are tasked with investigating toxic materials, assessing potential risks, how they affect an environment, and what type of threat they pose. They use scientific techniques and analyses to identify chemicals, radiation, and biological substances. You’d need to be an excellent communicator and have an independent mind and impeccable attention to detail to successfully work as a toxicologist.

11. Biotechnologist Jobs

Biotechnologists study living organisms and their composition to create or improve various processes and products. They work in medicine, environmental conservation, and food and agriculture, among other settings. Biotechnologists would need to graduate with at least a Bachelor’s degree and possess strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.

12. Epidemiologist Jobs

Epidemiologists are tasked with studying the effects, causes, and patterns of diseases within a group of people. The daily duties of an epidemiologist may vary, depending on the setting. Generally speaking, though, these professionals focus on studying samples of a population that includes both healthy and unhealthy individuals. Below is a list of the top-paying biomedical science careers, including job description, duties, key qualities, and salaries:

Highest-Paying Careers in Biomedical Science for 2021

Biomedical science is an incredibly broad field and one that can lead to many career paths. If you’re interested in exploring this field further and want to get paid well in the process, we recommend reading on to find the best opportunities out there. Do note, however, that the success of your application and the amount you may earn will depend on your interests, qualifications, and degrees.

1. Biomedical Scientist

Biomedical scientists are in charge of conducting research and analysis that would help improve the overall health of humans. They typically work in laboratories or offices during standard business hours. The most common employers are colleges, universities, hospitals, and life sciences research and development departments. The jobs outlook for a biomedical scientist is looking good, with the BLS projecting an 8% increase for the next eight years. This means that there will be an additional 10,600 jobs by 2028. In terms of education requirements, a doctoral or professional degree is necessary in order to become a biomedical scientist. As for the rest of the requirements, check out the list below:

Requirements:

• Keen eye and attention to detail
• Strong analytical and researching skills
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Team working and decision-making abilities

Responsibilities:

• Analyze and prepare samples for testing
• Register patients’ data and send results to doctors
• Maintain lab equipment and comply with general lab safety and health regulations
• Assist in staff training and attend other courses and training activities

Biomedical Scientist Salary:

• Lowest Salary: $51K
• Highest Salary: $86K
• Average Base Salary: $65,779
• Average Additional Compensation: $1,508

The average salary of a biomedical scientist amounts to $5,481 per month, which is well above the national average. What’s more, they are also subject to receiving additional cash compensation, ranging from $421 up to a solid $10,552 per year. This compensation can come in the form of overtime work, various performance-related bonuses, or commission.

2. Clinical Scientist

Clinical scientists are tasked to collect various samples and run tests in order to analyze tissue, bodily fluids, and other substances. Hospitals, medical and diagnostic laboratories, and doctors’ offices are the most common workplaces for clinical scientists. A clinical scientist job usually entails full-time working hours. Additionally, those who operate within facilities may endure round-the-clock work as well as overnight and weekend hours. The BLS projects a faster than average growth rate of about 11%. Currently, there are 331,700 clinical lab scientist jobs, and with the estimated growth, about 35,100 new positions will be available within the next eight years. To work as a clinical scientist, you will need to graduate with a Bachelor’s degree, although many positions sometimes require only an Associate’s degree. Furthermore, a license is a requirement in most states, and below is a list of the other minimum requirements for these biomedical jobs:

Requirements:

• Formidable physical stamina and endurance
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Dexterity and detail-orientation
• Ability to use computerized equipment and other lab tech

Responsibilities:

• Operate high-tech lab equipment and technology
• Perform sample testing and analysis and report abnormal findings
• Analyze effects of pharmaceutical products and medical treatments
• Log medical data and discuss test findings, results and procedures with physicians

Clinical Scientist Salary:

• Lowest Salary: $39K
• Highest Salary: $94K
• Average Base Salary: $60,353
• Average Additional Compensation: $1,617

The average monthly clinical lab scientist salary amounts to $5,029. These professionals may also receive additional compensation, ranging from $505 up to $4,871 on a yearly basis. Additionally, overtime work is most commonly paid, as well as evening and weekend hours.

3. Forensic Scientist

Forensic scientists assist criminal investigators and crime units by collecting evidence from crime scenes and analyzing them. This is probably one of the most famous careers worldwide, especially since there are a lot of TV shows created around this particular occupation. Working hours and days may depend on the specialization since forensic scientists need to always be available for evidence collection and analysis. Due to these reasons, overtime work, night shifts and extended hours, as well as frequent travel, are a common occurrence. Part of the forensic scientist job description is to also be available during off days because they might be needed to jump on the call and work on a case immediately. The forensic scientist job outlook is looking good, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 14% increase in new positions for the next eight years. This means that an additional 2,400 forensic science jobs will become available by 2028. A Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or forensic science is a necessary requirement in case you were wondering how to become a forensic scientist. Let’s take a look at the other key qualities needed to apply for a forensic science job successfully.

Requirements:

• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Formidable critical-thinking and science/math skills
• A keen eye and meticulous attention to detail
• Impeccable confidence, objectiveness, focus, and patience

Responsibilities:

• Search and collect crime scene evidence
• Test tissue samples and bodily fluids
• Sort evidence, record findings, and analyze computer data
• Coordinate with outside agencies and defend findings in a court of law

Forensic Scientist Salary:

• Lowest Salary: $45K
• Highest Salary: $79K
• Average Base Salary: $57,755
• Average Additional Compensation: $1,224

Forensic scientists earn an average monthly wage of $4,813. Apart from this basic forensic science salary, they are also subject to receiving additional cash compensation. This compensation can come in the form of performance-related bonuses, overtime work, or night shift compensation, and ranges from $422 to $2,725 per year.

4. Medicinal Chemist

Medicinal chemists study the molecular and atomic levels of substances and then analyze how they interact with each other. Part of the medicinal chemist job description is to research and develop which chemical compounds can be used as pharmaceutical drugs. Their typical work environment is an office or a laboratory where they conduct their research and analysis. The BLS projects a 4% growth rate in medicinal chemistry jobs for the next eight years. This means that an additional 3,500 jobs will be added to the already present 95,800 positions. To apply and work as a medicinal chemist, you’d need at least a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field. However, to work as a medicinal chemistry researcher, you’d need to graduate with a Master’s or a Ph.D.

Requirements:

• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong math and problem-solving skills
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills
• Impeccable perseverance and analytical skills

Responsibilities:

• Conduct scientific experiments and perform data analysis
• Create, test and develop new manufacturing processes
• Collaborate with scientific colleagues and create reports and presentations
• Follow safety guidelines and health protocols

Medicinal Chemist Salary:

• Lowest Salary: $39K
• Highest Salary: $71K
• Average Base Salary: $51,280
• Average Additional Compensation: $2,652

Working in medicinal chemistry, you can expect to earn an average salary of $4,273 per month. And like any other occupation, medicinal chemists can also receive additional cash compensation between $657 and $8,265 per year for various performance-related bonuses or overtime work.

5. Microbiologist

Microbiologists study bacteria, algae, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms and types of parasites. The typical microbiologist work environment is a laboratory setting in which they analyze results and conduct various experiments. They may also work in offices clocking in regular business hours. To work as a microbiologist, you’d need to hold a Bachelor’s degree to be eligible for entry level microbiologist jobs. However, if you want to progress further and conduct independent research or work in a college or university, then a Ph.D. is a must. The microbiologist career outlook is positive as the BLS projects a 5% increase in new jobs within the next eight years. By 2028, there will be 1,100 new microbiologist job opportunities or about 137 per year.

Requirements:

• Formidable knowledge of methodology, electronic equipment, electron microscopes, and chemical samples
• Formidable knowledge of microbiology work, lab tests, and best analytical methods and practices
• Outstanding communication, interpersonal, logical-thinking, and observational skills
• Impeccable perseverance, accuracy, and attention to detail

Responsibilities:

• Conduct research on microbiological activities
• Perform analysis on all sterilized materials
• Carry out tests on samples, ingredients, and document the whole process
• Investigate any issues with samples, raw materials or equipment and compose final reports

Microbiologist Salary:

• Lowest Salary: $34K
• Highest Salary: $60K
• Average Base Salary: $43,860
• Average Additional Compensation: $1,606

The average microbiologist salary stands at $3,655 per month, not including overtime work or bonuses. For those who want to start in an entry-level position, rest assured that in terms of earning potential, there isn’t much of a difference. Namely, an entry level microbiologist salary amounts to a monthly wage of $3,446, on average.

6. Toxicologist

Toxicologists are responsible for the studying of chemicals and their reactions to the human body and the environment. What they do is of utmost importance, as they can help people by investigating and securing toxins that can cause cancer, deformity, or various diseases. Their typical workplace is a laboratory or office where they conduct experiments and analysis. Most of them work full time, while extra working hours or weekend work are rarely common. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the toxicologist job outlook is positive, with projections, with a 6% increase in new jobs by 2028. There are currently 30,400 toxicologists, and about 1,900 various additional toxicology jobs will become available within the next eight years. Moreover, entry level toxicology jobs are the perfect opportunity for college graduates, especially for those holding a Bachelor’s degree. For more advanced positions, though, a Master’s or Ph.D. is preferred. The rest of the minimum toxicologist requirements are listed below:

Requirements:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Formidable analytical and problem-solving skills
• Outstanding critical-thinking, time-management, and math skills
• Perseverance, dedication, attention to detail, and team working abilities

Responsibilities:

• Create, plan, and carry out trials and experiments
• Analyze, interpret data, and carry out field studies
• Write reviews and reports and give evidence in court
• Undertake risk assessment, supervise staff, and manage laboratories

Toxicologist Salary:

• Lowest Salary: $47K
• Highest Salary: $101K
• Average Base Salary: $71,498
• Average Additional Compensation: $3,318

The toxicologist average salary per month is $5,958, making it one of the highest-paid biomedical science jobs. Not only is the average monthly wage well above the rest, but the toxicologist salary range is something that sways people to compete for a toxicologist job as well. Namely, toxicologists can earn a minimum of $47K per year up to a whopping maximum of $101K per year. And that’s not all. Toxicologists are also subjected to receive additional cash compensation, ranging from $984 to a staggering $21,753 per year for various performance-related bonuses.

7. Biotechnologist

Biotechnologists work with organic materials to develop medicine and help improve health through natural science. Laboratories are their usual working environment, with regular business hours and almost no overtime or weekend work requirements. The biotechnologist job outlook, according to the BLS, is just about average. Projections estimate about a 7% increase or a total of 5,700 biotechnology jobs will be added within the next eight years. To become a biotechnologist, you’d need a Bachelor’s degree in biology or any closely related field. While in school, it is imperative to gain as much lab experience as possible.

Requirements:

• Complex problem-solving abilities
• Formidable communication and team working abilities
• Innovative thinking and meticulous attention to detail
• Strong analytical and technical skills

Responsibilities:

• Set-up lab equipment and work with lab technicians
• Develop new research procedures and implement studies
• Gather, study, and test samples
• Analyze results, record findings, and identify possible improvements

Biotechnologist Salary:

• Lowest Salary: $51K
• Highest Salary: $75K
• Average Base Salary: $62,731
• Average Additional Compensation: n/a

The average monthly salary of a biotechnologist is $5,228, not including any bonuses or compensation. Currently, there are no reports of additional cash compensation, but overtime work is most commonly paid.

8. Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists investigate the causes of injuries and diseases in humans by analyzing and identifying patterns. Their tasks are to research and educate communities about the risks of negative health consequences. An epidemiologist work environment includes local, state or federal health departments, hospitals, colleges and universities, and laboratories. The BLS projects a relatively modest 5% growth rate for new positions. This makes the epidemiologist job outlook the slowest among all other occupations, with only 400 new jobs within the next eight years. To start an epidemiologist career, you would need at least a Master’s degree from an accredited university or college.

Requirements:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Formidable critical-thinking skills
• Meticulous attention to detail and solid teaching skills
• Outstanding statistical and math skills

Responsibilities:

• Plan, direct, and find ways to prevent public health problem when they arise
• Gather findings and analyze data to find the causes of health problems
• Communicate with health practitioners and the public about these findings
• Plan and manage health programs, monitor progress, and supervise all personnel

Epidemiologist Salary:

• Lowest Salary: $46K
• Highest Salary: $89K
• Average Base Salary: $63,911
• Average Additional Compensation: $2,150

Despite the slow growth rate for new positions, the average epidemiologist salary is a point of interest for many college graduates. Namely, the monthly salary of an epidemiologist is $5,325, placing them among the high earners. Moreover, epidemiologists are also subjected to receive additional cash compensation up to $10,400 on an annual basis.

Work Environment

The work environment for most jobs in biomedical sciences is identical. Laboratories and physician’s or doctors’ offices are the prevalent workplaces, and fieldwork is also quite frequent. In terms of working hours and days, again, most occupations have similar itinerary — regular full-time working hours, five days a week. Forensic scientists and epidemiologists are the two rare biomedical careers that would require off-day availability or weekend work. Graduates who hold a BSC in biomedical science can find jobs in the following largest employers:

• Professional schools, colleges, and universities
• State, local, or private hospitals
• Pharmaceutical and machine manufacturing
• Physicians’ offices
• Medical, testing, and diagnosis laboratories
• Agricultural and engineering services companies
• Scientific research and development services organizations

Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, all of these occupations are projected to grow in the next eight years. From the above mentioned biomedical science careers list, forensic scientists project the largest percentage increase, although only 2,400 positions will become available. Clinical scientists, on the other hand, are second in terms of percentage growth. However, there will be a whopping 35,100 new jobs within the next eight years. At the bottom of the list are medicinal chemists, with only a 4% increase or 3,500 new jobs. It’s safe to say that for a biomedical science graduate, there will be many jobs to apply for in the years to come.

Summary

If you’re interested in studying biomedical sciences, then you should be prepared for the challenges that lie ahead, as this field is a rather tough one to study. However, don’t get discouraged, especially if you’re a person who relishes the opportunity to learn everything there is to know about the genetics of the human body and how illnesses and diseases work, and then to find ways to treat them. The BLS projects a steady growth rate for all biomedical science jobs for the next eight years, meaning you shouldn’t worry about getting employed after graduating. To help ease your job hunting endeavors, we also compiled a filtered list of the top jobs currently on the market, attached at the top of this article. We hope you find this article useful and helpful in your search for the right opportunity.

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