How The Strong Inventory Relates to a Career as a Bioinformatic Scientist

The Strong Interest Inventory Assessment (SII) is a tool used by the general public as well as by professionals for clients who are looking to explore their career and college options. The Strong Interest Inventory can help people identify the career and educational paths best suited to their interests. It is categorized into six different Theme Codes. The Bioinformatics Scientist Career falls under the Conventional theme code because attention to detail is required when gathering data and entering the findings into databases for analysis. Bioinformatics Scientists are professionals who work with the management and analysis of biological data. This job requires a high degree of accuracy in its processes and presents a fascinating opportunity to work with technology at the intersection of biology and computational sciences. This career is for individuals who prefer an organized work environment, working with data, and following established procedures and protocols.

Strong Interest Inventory® Conventional Theme Code Bioinformatics Scientist Career

Write-up describing the Strong Interest Inventory Conventional Theme Code Bioinformatics Scientist Career.

What Does a Bioinformatic Scientist Do?

Bioinformatics scientists use their knowledge of biology, computer science, and information technology to develop and apply computational tools and techniques to manage, analyze, and interpret biological data. They work with large datasets, such as genetic information, to identify patterns, make predictions, and inform scientific research and decision-making. The work of Bioinformatics Scientists is critical for advancing our understanding of biological systems and developing new treatments for diseases. They play an important role in areas such as genomics, proteomics, pharmacogenomics, and systems biology.

A Bioinformatic Scientist’s Day-to Day Tasks and Tools

On a day-to-day basis, bioinformatics scientists are responsible for developing and implementing algorithms and software tools to manage, process, and analyze large amounts of genetic and molecular data. They also work on projects that involve the analysis of gene expression data, protein sequences, and large-scale genomic data, as well as contributing to the discovery of new biological insights.

As stated by The Dept’ of Labor, The Following Work Tasks are Most Often Completed by Bioinformatic Scientists:

  • Improve software or applications for scientific or technical usage.
  • Make scientific or technical reports or demonstrations.
  • Guide others on the progress or use of the latest
  • Evaluate biological trials.
  • Analysis of professional literature to sustain professional information.
  • Create technical or scientific databases.
  • Investigate genetic characteristics or expression.
  • Manage scientific or technical staff.
  • Work together with technical experts to resolve project or development problems.
  • Direct others on professional or operational matters.
  • Educate employees in technical or scientific processes.

(Retrieved from O’netOnline.org. Bioinformatic Scientist Career. Career Code: 19-1029.01. Detailed Work Activities)

Core Activities for Bioinformatic Scientists:

  • Create the latest software applications or modify existing applications to meet specific scientific project requirements.
  • Correspond research results through conference demonstrations, scientific publications, or project reports.
  • Convey novel computational methods and analytical tools as essential to research objectives.
  • Confer with researchers to examine problems, recommend technology-based resolutions, or establish computational strategies.
  • Evaluate large molecular datasets, such as raw microarray data, genomic sequence data, or proteomics data, for scientific or basic research uses.
  • Keep up to date with new biochemistries, instrumentation, or software by reading scientific literature and joining professional discussions.
  • Design data models and databases.
  • Collect data for use in activities such as gene expression profiling, genome annotation, or structural bioinformatics.
  • Develop and incorporate bioinformatics algorithms, including unsupervised and supervised machine learning, dynamic programming, or graphic algorithms.
  • Influence publicly accessible, commercial, or proprietary genomic, proteomic, or post-genomic records.

(Retrieved from O’netOnline.org. Bioinformatic Scientist Career. Career Code: 19-1029.01 Tasks- Category-Core.)

Bioinformatics Scientists utilize a range of software and analytical tools to manage and interpret biological data. Bioinformatic Scientists uses the following technological software, among others:

  • IBM SPSS Statistics
  • SAS
  • StataCorp
  • The MathWorks MATLAB

These Scientists additionally utilize Database management software such as:

  • Apache Hadoop
  • Microsoft SQL Server
  • MySQL
  • NoSQL
  • Oracle PL/SQL

They also utilize programming languages such as Python to develop custom scripts and algorithms for processes as well as visualization tools such as Microsoft PowerPoint to display data in a manner that allows for easy interpretation and understanding for themselves and when presenting to others. Other technologies used by Bioinformatics Scientists include high-performance computing systems and cloud-based platforms, which allow them to process and store large amounts of data. Python Web development software is often requested by employers for this career. 55% of employers request knowledge of Python within their job posting when hiring for this career.

It is additionally required that candidates for this position have advanced technical skills with all forms of computers, such as laptops, desktops, and personal computers, as well as Scanners and laser printers.

It is vital that individuals functioning in this occupation stay abreast with the latest advancements in their field. Bioinformatics Scientists must continuously update their technical skills and be knowledgeable about the latest tools and technologies available.

Experience and Education

To become a bioinformatics scientist, experience (at least 5 years) and comprehension of Biology, Chemistry, mathematics, and computer science is normally needed. A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required. However, many employers prefer a master’s degree or a PhD, especially for more advanced positions.

The training process for bioinformatics scientists is a combination of formal education and practical experience. As a strong educational foundation is important, so is hands-on experience within this area, or in a related field, when applying for such a job.

Internships, research projects, and certification programs can provide valuable opportunities for building experience and expanding knowledge in this field.

Bioinformatics Scientists can specialize in various areas such as genomics, proteomics, drug discovery, computational biology, and systems biology, among others. These specializations may require additional training and education specific to that field.

Oral, Reading and writing comprehension are of the utmost importance when functioning as a Bioinformatic Scientist. As is deductive reasoning, oral expression, active listening, and critical thinking.

Salary and wages

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Biological Scientists and the like, which includes bioinformatics scientists, is $82,530. The top 10% earned $133,830 or more, while the bottom 10% earned $74,560 or less. For perspective, in places such as Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, and San Jose, California, the median wage for Bioinformatic Scientists is $118,210. While the annual high in these California locations is $167,210 annually.

To increase their salary, bioinformatics scientists can consider seeking out roles with larger organizations or those in higher-paying industries, such as with Bio-Tech Firms and the pharmaceutical sector, as well as focusing on specific geographical areas that are known to provide well-earned pay and benefits above other areas in the country as mentioned above.

Below are some employment trends for Bioinformatics Scientists in the United States:

  • Median Salary: $39.68 hourly, $82,530 annually
  • Employment: 50,600 employees
  • Projected growth: (2021-2031): Average (4% to 7%)
  • Projected job openings: (2021-2031): 4,600
[Information retrieved from Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data and 2018-2028 employment projections]

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References

  1. Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data and 2018-2028 employment projections Onetonline.org