Overview
Molecular biology studies biological processes at the molecular level, focusing primarily in biochemistry processes and genetics. Because the degree is highly specialized, graduates come into the job market with a series of abilities that are highly sought after. The federal government, currently the main provider of jobs for molecular biologists, has made it clear in recent years that the need is considerable.
General Employment
A degree in molecular biology is often obtained along with more general instruction in chemistry or biochemistry. In many cases, molecular biology is a specialization. This means that graduates will be able to look for jobs in a variety of fields, including lab work, genetic research or environmental chemistry. Molecular biology degrees are also useful in the biotechnology, clinical chemistry and veterinary sciences fields, making it easy for professionals to change their places of employment or even their chosen career paths at any given time. Independent research positions (including medical health technical positions) that require a bachelor’s degree in molecular science rather than a more advanced degree are also popular.
Market Overview
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that many new job opportunities in the biomedical and molecular biology field will open between 2006 and 2016, with continuing growth expected even after that. This is mainly due to the many new discoveries and technologies being brought to light and the need for researchers to take over labs or handle new equipment. A shortage of well-prepared professionals is expected, which means recent graduates should have no difficulty finding a position, even with little to no experience under their belt.
Government Positions
One area that is expected to grow considerably is employment in government agencies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Institutes of Health. State offices that work with the U.S. Department of Agriculture or local food management programs may also offer great opportunities for graduates of molecular biology programs. Research into the chemistry and safety of food products, environmental factors and animal and industrial waste are also popular fields of work for molecular biology experts.
Bilogical Sciences
Career opportunities for biological scientists (which include those specializing in molecular biology) have great potential for growth, especially in the case of those who hold advanced degrees. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates employment will grow steadily between 2004 and 2014, although positions for doctoral research and grants may prove to be more competitive than usual, as the federal government is expected to complete budget rearrangement and tighten the application requirements. This may lead to more applications for research grants that don’t make it beyond the initial step (currently, one in three grant applications are accepted). While chemistry graduates can expect plenty of job opportunities to open in many fields, research positions at universities and institutions of higher learning will become more competitive, resulting in fewer openings and a highly competitive market.
Long-Term Employment
The BLS also shows that molecular biologists, as well as biology scientists in general, are less likely to be affected by financial recession, as many positions are tied to specific research projects that are unlikely to be canceled midway. Although less positions in research may be available, those who secure one are expected to enjoy a comfortable level of job security. While economic issues may affect how much money is put into a specific program or whether the program will be extended or renewed once its original timeframe has expired, this is often advised early on, so the scientist can plan for new pursuits.
References
Biospace.com: Biotech and Pharmaceutical News & Jobs
Bachelor Degree in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Biological Scientists Career Overview
