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Details Report for:
19-1029.01 - Bioinformatics Scientists

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.

This title represents an occupation for which data collection is currently underway.

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Tasks  |  Interests  |  Work Values  |  Education  |  Wages & Employment

Tasks   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

  • Analyze large molecular datasets such as raw microarray data, genomic sequence data, and proteomics data for clinical or basic research purposes.
  • Consult with researchers to analyze problems, recommend technology-based solutions, or determine computational strategies.
  • Manipulate publicly accessible, commercial, or proprietary genomic, proteomic, or post-genomic databases.
  • Communicate research results through conference presentations, scientific publications, or project reports.
  • Compile data for use in activities such as gene expression profiling, genome annotation, and structural bioinformatics.
  • Create novel computational approaches and analytical tools as required by research goals.
  • Create or modify web-based bioinformatics tools.
  • Design and apply bioinformatics algorithms including unsupervised and supervised machine learning, dynamic programming, or graphic algorithms.
  • Develop data models and databases.
  • Develop new software applications or customize existing applications to meet specific scientific project needs.
  • Direct the work of technicians and information technology staff applying bioinformatics tools or applications in areas such as proteomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and clinical bioinformatics.
  • Improve user interfaces to bioinformatics software and databases.
  • Instruct others in the selection and use of bioinformatics tools.
  • Prepare summary statistics of information regarding human genomes.
  • Provide statistical and computational tools for biologically based activities such as genetic analysis, measurement of gene expression, and gene function determination.
  • Test new and updated bioinformatics tools and software.
  • Collaborate with software developers in the development and modification of commercial bioinformatics software.
  • Confer with departments such as marketing, business development, and operations to coordinate product development or improvement.
  • Keep abreast of new biochemistries, instrumentation, or software by reading scientific literature and attending professional conferences.
  • Recommend new systems and processes to improve operations.

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Interests   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Occupational Interest
Interest
100   Investigative — Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
67   Conventional — Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
56   Realistic — Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
33   Artistic — Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
11   Social — Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.
 Enterprising — Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.

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Work Values   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Extent
Work Value
72   Independence — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employs to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
67   Achievement — Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
67   Recognition — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.
61   Working Conditions — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
45   Support — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
39   Relationships — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.

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Education

Education data collected from Biological Scientists, All Other.


Percentage of Respondents
Education Level Attained
95   Bachelor's degree or higher
  Some college
 High school or less

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics external site survey of employees aged 25-44.

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Wages & Employment Trends

National

Median wages data collected from Biological Scientists, All Other.
Employment data collected from Biological Scientists, All Other.

Category Occupation Information
Median wages (2008) $31.29 hourly, $65,080 annual
 
Employment (2006) 29,000 employees
 
Projected growth (2006-2016) Slower than average (3% to 6%) Slower than average (3% to 6%)
 
Projected need (2006-2016) 7,000 additional employees

State & National

          CareerOneStop

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics 2008 wage data external site and 2006-2016 employment projections external site. "Projected growth" represents the estimated change in total employment over the projections period (2006-2016). "Projected need" represents job openings due to growth and net replacement.

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