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Bioinformatics Scientist

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All About Bioinformatics Scientists

Bioinformatics Scientist Definition Conduct research using bioinformatics theory and methods in areas such as pharmaceuticals, medical technology, biotechnology, computational biology, proteomics, computer information science, biology and medical informatics. May design databases and develop algorithms for processing and analyzing genomic information, or other biological information.

Life As a Bioinformatics Scientist

  • Improve user interfaces to bioinformatics software and databases.
  • Test new and updated bioinformatics tools and software.
  • Collaborate with software developers in the development and modification of commercial bioinformatics software.
  • Provide statistical and computational tools for biologically based activities, such as genetic analysis, measurement of gene expression, or gene function determination.
  • Instruct others in the selection and use of bioinformatics tools.
  • Analyze large molecular datasets, such as raw microarray data, genomic sequence data, or proteomics data, for clinical or basic research purposes.

Bioinformatics Scientist Needed Skills

Below is a list of the skills most Bioinformatics Scientists say are important on the job.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Other Bioinformatics Scientist Job Titles

  • Bioinformatics Developer
  • Research Associate
  • Genomics Specialist
  • Principal Bioinformatics Specialist
  • Scientific Database Curator

Job Outlook for Bioinformatics Scientists

In 2016, there was an estimated number of 38,700 jobs in the United States for Bioinformatics Scientist. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 8% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 3,100 new jobs for Bioinformatics Scientist by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 3,700 job openings in this field each year.

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The states with the most job growth for Bioinformatics Scientist are Nevada, Utah, and Ohio. Watch out if you plan on working in Wyoming, South Dakota, or Rhode Island. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

Salary for a Bioinformatics Scientist

Bioinformatics Scientists make between $45,030 and $126,390 a year.

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Bioinformatics Scientists who work in Maryland, Rhode Island, or Delaware, make the highest salaries.

How much do Bioinformatics Scientists make in different U.S. states?

State Annual Mean Salary
Alabama $67,200
Alaska $77,430
Arizona $83,680
Arkansas $74,380
California $91,340
Colorado $71,380
Connecticut $93,180
Delaware $91,760
District of Columbia $104,460
Florida $71,200
Georgia $72,460
Hawaii $79,760
Idaho $70,770
Illinois $84,180
Indiana $69,180
Iowa $62,320
Kansas $64,560
Kentucky $64,780
Louisiana $66,100
Maine $76,840
Maryland $103,790
Massachusetts $84,790
Michigan $75,110
Minnesota $73,770
Mississippi $80,690
Missouri $67,290
Montana $66,110
Nebraska $74,790
Nevada $73,490
New Hampshire $78,780
New Jersey $76,330
New Mexico $73,610
New York $89,000
North Carolina $83,380
North Dakota $70,590
Ohio $67,780
Oklahoma $64,200
Oregon $69,930
Pennsylvania $73,550
Rhode Island $89,210
South Carolina $78,370
South Dakota $65,660
Tennessee $67,690
Texas $80,900
Utah $74,290
Vermont $78,070
Virginia $93,750
Washington $85,200
West Virginia $70,060
Wisconsin $73,520
Wyoming $71,030

Tools & Technologies Used by Bioinformatics Scientists

Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Bioinformatics Scientists may use on a daily basis:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office
  • Hypertext markup language HTML
  • JavaScript
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Git
  • Web browser software
  • Python
  • jQuery
  • Microsoft Access
  • MySQL
  • Word processing software
  • Data visualization software
  • Microsoft SharePoint
  • Structured query language SQL
  • The MathWorks MATLAB
  • SAS
  • Linux
  • Ruby
  • Extensible markup language XML

Becoming a Bioinformatics Scientist

What education is needed to be a Bioinformatics Scientist?

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How Long Does it Take to Become a Bioinformatics Scientist?

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Where Bioinformatics Scientists Work

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The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.

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References:

Image Credit: Pixabay via CC0 1.0

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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