How To Become A Molecular Biologist: What It Is and Career Path

What is a molecular biologist and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

3 min read

Quoted Expert

John Turbeville Ph.D.

Whether researching cell processes and codes in humans, animals, plants, or other living organisms, molecular biologists are required in a wide range of career fields. During their career studies, they apply their knowledge of chemistry, cell physiology, genetics, physics, and others. These practitioners must experiment to engineer new crops to enhance their health and consumption genetically.

Other molecular biologists can create a new way to test the validity of drugs used to stimulate healthy gene growth and fight disease. Molecular biologists need to understand gene sequencing, cell signaling, and gene expression and organize and differentiate cells. Responsibilities for molecular biologists require accurate recording of knowledge and analysis of findings, which are then distributed and conveyed to others for non-scientific use.

The training needed for molecular biologists varies. The entry-level roles should have at least a Bachelor's degree in a related field, while research positions typically require a Master's or Ph.D. degree. Successful molecular biologists have a strong understanding of subjects such as cell physiology, chemistry, genetics, and physics.

What general advice would you give to a Molecular Biologist?

John Turbeville Ph.D.

Senior Assistant Dean for Student Affairs/Director of Career Services, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry

There is no particular fix, or one size fits all approach to job searching. The ability to successfully network and engage in an ongoing way, in various career-related opportunities, is still the best strategy for success, even in uncertain times like these. Students may have additional opportunities made available to them because of the digital/remote nature of how many organizations are engaging in their recruitment-allowing graduates the ability to experience more, in a shorter period, without limitations of location or travel, that very often enter into considerations surrounding the job search. With that said, however, knowing there is a durable full-time, seasonal nature to early employment opportunities for biology grads, we would expect this to be more prevalent as the economy begins to recover. Demand for graduates in the public health-related fields will likely continue to be high, but graduates will probably need to be even more flexible in starting their careers. Not in the sense that they will need to take positions "out of their field," but instead, that they will need to be more open to relocating for the right opportunities to engage their passions and interests.

ScoreMolecular BiologistUS Average

Salary

5.8

Avg. Salary $73,763

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level

5.2

Growth Rate 17%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity

5.1

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.65%

Asian 17.29%

Black or African American 2.67%

Hispanic or Latino 7.44%

Unknown 5.12%

White 66.83%

Gender

female 51.07%

male 48.93%

Age - 39

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 39

Stress Level

5.2

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity Level

7.3

Complexity Level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance

5.6

Work Life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a molecular biologist

Explore molecular biologist education requirements

Most common molecular biologist degrees

Bachelor's

60.8 %

Master's

21.6 %

Doctorate

14.5 %

Start to develop specific molecular biologist skills

Skills	Percentages
CRISPR	8.30%
Next-Generation Sequencing	7.42%
Cell Culture	6.19%
Lab Equipment	5.70%
Molecular Biology Techniques	5.23%

Research molecular biologist duties and responsibilities

Provide oversight for FDA inspections.
Present results in monthly HTS and data meeting.
Perform instrument, primers and reagent validations utilize in RT-PCR.
Develop and perform assays for testing samples using ELISA and PCR technology.

Prepare your molecular biologist resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your molecular biologist resume.

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Apply for molecular biologist jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a molecular biologist job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

Browse job boards for relevant postings
Consult your professional network
Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
Watch out for job scams

How Did You Land Your First Molecular Biologist Job

Yesenia Lopez

Molecular Biologist, Natera

Commencing my journey, I obtained a Bachelor's degree with a focus on a Bachelor of Science in Biology (Microbiology), complemented by a minor in chemistry. Post-graduation, I held a role as a laboratory clerk at North East Medical Services from 2018 to 2020. In this capacity, my responsibilities included aiding the Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) in sample processing and ensuring timely communication of patient results. Transitioning to CareDx, I assumed the position of clinical lab assistant, where I further honed my skills in patient handling and sample processing under the guidance of the CLS. My tenure at CareDx provided valuable exposure to molecular techniques and allowed me to develop leadership capabilities, leading to my promotion to laboratory assistant lead.

Eager to advance in my career and specialize in molecular techniques, I set my sights on becoming a Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist (CGMBS). This aspiration led me to apply for the Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist Training Postbaccalaureate Certification Program at San Jose State University. This intensive 12-month program, designed to prepare students for the national ASCP exam for CGMBS licensure, offered a comprehensive curriculum and hands-on training at clinical-affiliated training sites. Following a competitive selection process, I embarked on the program in August 2022, beginning my internship at CareDx. Balancing 35 hours of practical training each week with coursework in Molecular Diagnostics, which included lectures, weekly assessments, and midterms, I diligently worked towards my certification.

Upon completing the program, the next step was to apply for the ASCP Exam to obtain licensure. After dedicated preparation, I successfully passed the exam, marking a significant milestone in my journey. With my credentials in hand, I embarked on a job search, seeking opportunities to apply my expertise. I am delighted to share that I have recently secured a position at Natera as a CGMBS, where I look forward to contributing my skills and expertise to the team.

How do molecular biologists rate their job?