Molecular and Cellular Biology Researchers
Molecular and Cellular Biology Researchers investigate how cells work at the tiniest levels, focusing on DNA, RNA, proteins, and organelles to understand health, disease, and how living things grow. They design and run complex lab experiments—such as DNA sequencing, cloning, RNA purification, gel electrophoresis, and cell sorting using tools like thermocyclers and fluorescence-activated cell sorters—then analyze the data and adjust their experiments to get clearer answers. Many also lead research teams, manage budgets and lab resources, write grant proposals for funding, and help turn discoveries into real-world products like improved medical tests, new medicines, better crops, or microbes that can help recycle waste.
Did you know?
A PhD is typically required for research positions, and academic jobs are highly competitive with limited tenure-track opportunities available.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$85,100 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Science
Things to consider
Research Funding Challenges
Success depends heavily on securing competitive federal grants from agencies like NIH and NSF, which have low acceptance rates and require significant time investment.
Industry Career Diversification
The growing biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors in the US offer alternative career paths beyond traditional academic research positions.
Key responsibilities
Prepare or review reports, manuscripts, or meeting presentations.
Evaluate new supplies and equipment to ensure operability in specific laboratory settings.
Confer with vendors to evaluate new equipment or reagents or to discuss the customization of product lines to meet user requirements.
Design databases, such as mutagenesis libraries.
Participate in all levels of bioproduct development, including proposing new products, performing market analyses, designing and performing experiments, and collaborating with operations and quality control teams during product launches.