Important Facts about Biotech Careers
| Required Education | Biochemists and biophysicists typically hold a Ph.D. in biochemistry or a related field; biomedical engineers and biological technicians may hold bachelor's degrees |
| Work Environment | Many biotech scientists work in research and development for biotech firms, at colleges and universities, or in medical or chemical manufacturing |
| Median Salary (2021) | $48,140 (for all biological technicians) |
| Related Occupations | Medical scientists, agricultural and food scientists |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Employment Change
Over the 2021-2031 decade, employment for biological technicians in general is expected to grow 9%, which is faster than the average predicted for all occupations. Job opportunities for biochemists and biophysicists, in particular, will grow by about 15% during the decade, but because these job titles are highly specialized, the above-average growth will still result in the creation of only about 5,700 new jobs from 2021-2031. Growth is driven primarily by federal government funds for basic research and development. This makes winning and renewing research grants highly competitive.
Job Prospects
Many biotech firms have been absorbed by larger biotech companies and pharmaceutical firms, the BLS reports. Continued work on chronic and developing diseases drives the need for biotech scientists. The aging baby-boomer population is also increasing demand for new biomedical advances. Outside of the medical field, biotech scientists may now find new job opportunities in agriculture and in the energy industry, improving crop yields through genetic engineering and researching and developing biofuels.
