Biochemistry : Your skills

Through studying biochemistry, you not only acquire a great deal of subject knowledge associated with your degree but you also develop many skills which will be invaluable for your next career move. Studying the biosciences gives students both specific and generic skills so that they acquire a depth and range of learning. Specific skills associated with biochemistry include:

• the ability to understand complex biological processes;
• having a full and critical understanding of relevant texts;
• assembling arguments and engaging in debate;
• critical and analytical skills;
• independent thinking and problem-solving.

Through studying biochemistry you will most likely be able to provide evidence of the types of skills that most employers desire. The specific biochemistry knowledge you will have obtained will be vital for any research posts but other skills that you will have learnt, such as independent thinking, will be valued by any employer. This means graduates of biochemistry degrees are able to enter non-research careers that are less relevant to their subject of study. Generic transferable skills acquired through a biochemistry degree include:

• practical skills;
• numeracy skills;
• communication, presentation and IT skills;
• interpersonal and teamwork skills;
• self-management and professional development skills.

You can demonstrate your experience in these areas by giving examples from the practical work and group projects included in your degree course.

Consider the skills developed on your course as well as through your other activities, such as paid work, volunteering, family responsibilities, sport, membership of societies, leadership roles, etc. Think about how these can be used as evidence of your skills and personal attributes. Then you can start to market and sell who you really are, identify what you may be lacking and consider how to improve your profile. Take a look at job application advice for some useful tips.