Careers in Biochemistry
Are you thinking about studying biochemistry—or already working toward your degree and wondering what comes next? Whether you’re just beginning your academic journey or preparing to graduate, this chapter is here to support your career exploration and help you discover the possibilities ahead.
Getting Started
Career exploration takes time and is an iterative process that begins with reflection. Ask yourself: what kind of life do I want?
If you’re unsure where to begin, we recommend starting with the following chapters:
Studying Biochemistry At McMaster
Interested in learning more about biochemistry programs at McMaster? Visit the Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences website and consult the Academic Calendar for detailed program information. For guidance on program eligibility and requirements, connect with a Health Sciences Academic Advisor.
What Skills Do Biochemistry Graduates Develop?
Graduates of McMaster’s Biochemistry programs build a wide range of employability skills, including:
- Investigating the molecular foundations of life
- Analyzing biochemical pathways and cellular processes
- Designing and executing laboratory experiments
- Collecting, interpreting, and presenting scientific data
- Applying statistical and computational tools to biological questions
- Exploring the biochemical basis of health, disease, and therapeutics
- Translating scientific discoveries into real-world applications
- Communicating complex scientific concepts with clarity and precision
Science Professional Competencies
In addition to discipline-specific skills, McMaster Science students develop eight Science Professional Competencies that prepare them for diverse career paths. Learn more about these competencies here.
Entering The Workforce
Biochemistry graduates from McMaster pursue careers across a wide range of industry sectors. Most commonly, they work in:
Spotlight of potential careers for biochemistry graduates
Want to learn more about one of these occupations? Use the Government of Canada Job Bank “Job Profiles” tool to explore job descriptions, education requirements, and labour market trends.
Other common occupations for biochemistry graduates:
Click on a job title to learn more about the role, qualifications, and employment outlook in Canada:
- Clinical Research Trials Coordinator
- Clinical Chemist
- Chief Operating Officer
- Communications Assistant
- DNA Analyst
- Entomologist
- Environmental Biologist
- Environmental Consultant
- Food Scientist
- Forensic Laboratory Technician
- Health Policy Analyst
- Histologist
- Immunologist
- Medical Communications Specialist
- Medical Laboratory Technologist
- Nutrition Consultant
- Pharmacologist
- Pharmaceutical Marketing
- Professional Agrologist (P.Ag.)
- Public Health Inspector
- Recruiting Consultant
- Recreation Therapist
- Scientific Consultant
- Toxicologist
- Technical Writer
- Brew Master
The occupations shared above is not an exhaustive list of careers you can pursue!
Connect With McMaster Alumni
Curious about what McMaster Biochemistry graduates have done with their degree? Join MacConnect, McMaster’s alumni networking platform, hosted by Alumni Career Services.
MacConnect gives you access to a global community of Marauders and is your key to connecting with alumni who are eager to support your career journey. It’s quick and easy to sign up—and you’ll find a wealth of experience, insights, and career advice from a generous and diverse alumni network.
Use MacConnect to:
- Explore career paths by connecting with alumni in your field of interest
- Learn what it’s like to work abroad and gain international perspectives
- Get job search tips from experienced professionals
- Discover how others have used their McMaster degree across industries
- Build meaningful relationships with alumni mentors and expand your network
For more guidance on how to network with alumni, visit Conducting Information Interviews.
Further Education
It is very common for undergraduate students to pursue additional education or training. Use the Government of Canada Can Learn Program Search tool to explore further education programs across Canada, including certificates and diplomas.
Biochemistry-Specific Professional Associations
Professional associations are excellent sources of industry-specific information, networking opportunities, and often feature dedicated job boards. Consider joining one aligned with your discipline or career interests:
For additional job search support, visit the following chapters:
Need more support with your career planning?
Meet with a Career Advisor
Faculty of Health Sciences students can visit the Student Success Centre (GH 110) during drop-in hours or book an appointment in advance through OSCARplus.
Consider Co-op
Learn more about applying to McMaster’s Biochemistry Co-op program in the Academic Calendar and on our website.
