How to Become a Molecular Biologist

Molecular biologists study the structure of cells, viruses and bacteria at their most basic (molecular) levels, discovering how these tiny beings cause disease. Molecular biology has also been crucial in our understanding of genetics and how deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) plays a role. To become a molecular biologist, you will need years of schooling, training and a commitment to continuing your education to keep up with the latest findings.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Take inventory of your work habits and personality traits. A molecular biologist must be detail oriented, highly analytical and good at problem solving. Additionally, the ability to research and effectively communicate your findings is essential.

2. Research colleges and universities that have well-known undergraduate and graduate programs in biological and allied sciences. Molecular biology is a specialization within the field requiring strong skills in chemistry, physics, engineering and mathematics, as well as biology. As obtaining your bachelor of science degree is just the beginning of the schooling necessary to become a molecular biologist, investigating schools that have 6-year programs (combining bachelor's and master's program) may prove helpful.

3. Complete your degree in biology, pathology, or molecular biology and begin work on a Ph.D. with a focus on micro and cellular biology. You may also need to pursue coursework in biochemistry/biotechnology, genetics and data management within research. Data-management courses focus on learning effective data collection, management and analysis and are often taken in conjunction with computer classes that teach you how to use data-management software.

4. Find a laboratory in which to do the fieldwork necessary for your degree. The university with which you are affiliated will usually have a laboratory, but looking for a private-sector laboratory isn't out of the question. Many graduate students work in laboratories while finishing degrees, learning such skills as DNA synthesis, genotype work and gene sequencing.

5. Choose a topic for your thesis, begin research and set up any experiments necessary to prove your supposition. Publish your dissertation, the comprehensive written presentation of your thesis argument and its results to receive your advanced degree.

6. Explore the possibility of a postdoctoral research position. Now that you are a fully credentialed molecular biologist, a portfolio of published-research findings is a crucial component in getting a job. A postdoctoral position provides the opportunity for specialized experience that may lead to the publication of your research findings.

Tips & Warnings

• Research work requires long hours and stamina. It may be necessary to check experiments every few hours. You may sometimes spend days at a stretch working in the lab.

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