Biochemist

From earwax to athlete's foot, every biological element in the environment is made up of chemicals. Biochemists work to understand the complex chemistry of life. Applying chemical and biological principles, biochemists study the chemical composition of living matter and the molecular basis for processes that occur in cells. They analyze chemical combinations and reactions involved in metabolism, reproduction, growth and heredity. Biochemists have to know about cells and organs and how they function, the roles of hormones and enzymes in living things and the effects of poisons and minerals on living things, and experimental and research methods.

Concerned with the large-scale culture of living cells in fermentation processes, they develop medical, agricultural, food science, pharmacological, industrial, environmental and other practical applications. Biochemists analyze kidney, liver and thyroid functions, assist in the diagnosis of heart attacks, check glucose levels in diabetics and monitor cholesterol levels in patients with cardiovascular disease.

Biochemists conduct research, develop new or improved products and processes, and test and evaluate the quality and safety of materials. Biochemical research has led to the discovery and development of new and improved synthetic fibers, paints, adhesives, drugs, cosmetics, electronic components, lubricants and thousands of other products. Those working for pharmaceutical companies create new medications and improve existing ones. One of the most important functions is testing the potential side effects of drugs and knowing what the drugs do not mix with. Since most modern drugs come attached with harmful side effects, it is important that biochemists know what they are and make the drug companies and the public aware of them before taking any new medications.

As biochemistry is the mix between biology and chemistry, these scientists get to study how living things work at the molecular level. Some areas they may specialize in are reproduction, photosynthesis and energy respiration, and metabolism. They may also study body and muscle contractions, gene development and biochemical stresses. They usually study organic chemistry working to either create new medicines or study DNA and the human make-up in relation to the chemicals it interacts with.

Biochemists also develop processes that save energy and reduce pollution, such as improved oil refining and petrochemical processing methods. Biochemists also work in production and quality control in manufacturing plants, preparing instructions for plant workers that specify ingredients, mixing times, and temperatures for each stage in the process. They also monitor automated processes to ensure proper product yield, and test samples of raw materials or finished products to ensure that they meet industry and government standards, including the regulations governing pollution. Biochemists report and document test results and analyze those results in hopes of further improving existing theories or developing new test methods.

Biochemists often work in interdisciplinary teams with physiologists, pharmacologists, plant biologists, microbiologists, chemists, agronomists and other professionals. They often supervise technicians and technologists during laboratory research. They may be found in offices, writing reports on the experiments they conduct or doing research about other related scientific studies.



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