Molecular and Cellular Biologists
Overview
Introduction
Molecular and cellular biologists, also known as biological scientists and life scientists, study the processes and codes of cells and molecules in humans, microorganisms, plants, and animals. They aim to understand the organization and function of cellular components. They perform research in many specialties that advance the fields of medicine, agriculture, and industry. They work in laboratory settings, in government agencies, and in academia. Approximately 47,100 biological scientists (all other not specified b...
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Molecular biologists employed in February 2020 earned a median salary of $60,563, according to PayScale.com. Salaries ranged from $40,000 to $99,000 or more. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) reports that microbiologists earned a median annual salary of $71,650 in May 2018. The DOL reports that the median salary for biological scientists, not otherwise classified, was $79,590. Salaries ranged ...
Work Environment
Most molecular and cellular biologists work indoors in laboratories. They may also work in laboratories and offices in government agencies and in universities. They usually wear lab coats and follow safety procedures, particularly when working with dangerous organisms or toxic substances. They work independently and on teams, collaborating on research projects. Molecular and cellular biologists...
Outlook
Molecular and cellular biologists will have good employment opportunities through 2028. Employment growth will range from average to faster than average, depending upon the industry in which biologists work.
There may be fewer opportunities in federal agencies, and there is keen competition for research and faculty positions at four-year colleges and universities for all biological scien...