This list is not exhaustive but provides an idea of the options graduates have and what they have gone on to do. Some options are more directly associated with a Biochemistry degree than others.

Some of these career choices may require additional education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential education or professional formative courses and exams. For a more in-depth description of some of the careers mentioned above visit Career Cruising (login information can be found on the home page of the Career Centre's online system) or the National Occupational Classification website.

A background in Biochemistry ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges.

Core Skills

• A hands-on understanding of biological and chemical processes
• The ability to understand chemical processes and molecular interactions, as well as a comprehension of complex technical and scientific material and its implications on everyday life
• The ability to formulate and test hypotheses, gather data and carry out laboratory work
• An understanding of how to collect various types of information, assess them, analyze and incorporate potential linkages from different fields
• Sound analytical and mathematical skills

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

• The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written statements
• Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
• The ability to organize, understand and analyze sources of information and to apply novel forms of technology or new information to different professional settings and tasks
• The ability to learn new information and apply this to professional demands
• The ability to explain complex ideas clearly to others and to apply complex theoretical concepts to everyday practice and professional dilemmas

Management and Teamwork

• The capacity to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
• Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
• The ability to present your thoughts and opinions to others, as well as the capacity to recognize and incorporate other potential solutions or applications to given problems
• The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects

• Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field.
  • Canadian Society for Molecular BioSciences
  • Canadian Association of Medical Biochemists
  • Canadian Society of Environmental Biologists
  • Society of Canadian Women in Science and Technology
  • Canadian Society of Clinical Chemists
  • The Society of Chemical Industry
  • The Chemical Institute of Canada
  • Association of the Chemical Profession of Ontario