To work as a diagnostic molecular scientist, you’ll need three things: post-secondary education, related work experience, and laboratory skills. Completing complex analyses is the responsibility of a diagnostic molecular scientist. They must identify and diagnose changes at the molecular level using a combination of manual techniques and specialized equipment. The majority of their time is spent on genetic testing, looking for clues as to how diseases develop, become resistant to treatment, and so on.
Detail-oriented people who want to be diagnostic molecular scientists enjoy working independently, have a high level of mental focus, and are very precise. The amount of knowledge required to be successful in this field is substantial, and it necessitates a high level of commitment and study. The opportunity to look at the root cause of diseases and potentially identify how the disease develops is the most appealing aspect of being this type of scientist. The information at the molecular level is used to determine the best method for eradicating any disease.
To become a diagnostic molecular scientist, you must first complete a post-secondary education program. This is usually a university degree in biochemistry or chemistry offered the Faculty of Arts & Sciences at a variety of universities. Further education or a long history of work experience can help you advance your career in this field. The vast majority of scientists have a molecular chemistry master’s or doctoral degree.
Work experience gained through a job placement program or an internship during your studies is considered related work experience. Obtaining a position in this industry without a formal post-secondary level training in molecular chemistry is extremely rare. Research assistant, biochemical laboratory assistant, and chemical analyst are all related jobs.
Anyone who wants to work as a diagnostic molecular scientist needs to be able to work in a lab. The majority of the day is spent in a lab, performing tests, documenting properties, identifying molecular structures, and conducting experiments. These skills are taught at the graduate level during post-secondary education. In this line of work, precision, accuracy, and focus are all necessary.
A diagnostic molecular scientist’s career advancement opportunities are determined their skill set and level of knowledge. Additional education, usually in a specific field of molecular chemistry, is usually required for promotions. Academic credentials are also required for research and teaching positions, so candidates interested in these fields should be actively pursuing this level of education.