Molecular and Cellular Biologists

What the job really is

Research and study cellular molecules and organelles to understand cell function and organization.

At a glance

• Sector: Life, Physical & Social Science
• O*NET-SOC code: 19-1029
• O*NET job zone: 5 — extensive preparation
• Work sample tasks on file: 12
• Tools and technologies listed: 12

What you actually do

Work sample tasks recorded for this occupation:

• Maintain accurate laboratory records and data.
• Design molecular or cellular laboratory experiments, oversee their execution, and interpret results.
• Write grant applications to obtain funding.
• Perform laboratory procedures following protocols including deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequencing, cloning and extraction, ribonucleic acid (RNA) purification, or gel electrophoresis.
• Conduct research on cell organization and function, including mechanisms of gene expression, cellular bioinformatics, cell signaling, or cell differentiation.
• Prepare or review reports, manuscripts, or meeting presentations.
• Instruct undergraduate and graduate students within the areas of cellular or molecular biology.
• Direct, coordinate, organize, or prioritize biological laboratory activities.
• Compile and analyze molecular or cellular experimental data and adjust experimental designs as necessary.
• Evaluate new technologies to enhance or complement current research.
• Provide scientific direction for project teams regarding the evaluation or handling of devices, drugs, or cells for in vitro and in vivo disease models.
• Supervise technical personnel and postdoctoral research fellows.

Tools and technology

Adobe Illustrator, C++, Git, Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Word, Python, R, The MathWorks MATLAB, AcaClone pDRAW32

What employers expect you to already be comfortable with.

Where this job leads

Related occupations — the usual moves up and sideways:

• Biochemists and Biophysicists
• Geneticists
• Bioinformatics Scientists
• Biologists
• Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers
• Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary
• Microbiologists
• Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists

Getting in

O*NET assigns this occupation job zone 5 (extensive preparation). The related occupations above are the realistic routes in and out.

Find openings

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Check this against the source

O*NET OnLine: Molecular and Cellular Biologists — the authoritative public-domain profile this page is derived from, including the full task list, reported skills and the wage estimates for your region.

Derived and rewritten from the public-domain O*NET database (U.S. Department of Labor / Employment and Training Administration). Figures are observations, not promises — always confirm salary, licensing and visa requirements with the employer and the relevant authority.