Biochemist Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Studies the biochemistry of living organisms and the molecular structure and function of related components.
What does a Biochemist do?
A biochemist investigates the chemical processes that occur in living organisms and how molecules such as proteins and enzymes are structured and function. Depending on their focus, biochemists may work in areas such as biological chemistry, enzyme chemistry, protein chemistry, plant biochemistry or toxicology.
Specialisations
How to become a Biochemist in South Africa
- Build a strong foundation in subjects connected to living organisms and molecular science, such as Life Sciences and Physical Sciences.
- Consider a relevant Bachelor of Science pathway, such as a Bachelor of Science in Pure and Applied Biochemistry, Bachelor of Science: Biochemistry, or Bachelor of Science: Biochemistry, Chemistry and Microbiology.
- Other relevant pathways include a Bachelor of Science: Human Movement Science and Biochemistry and a Bachelor of Science: Plant Biochemistry.
- Choose a focus that matches your interests, such as enzymes, proteins, plant biochemistry or toxicology.
- Confirm current qualification, provider, admission and assessment details with the relevant university, accredited provider or official quality-assurance body.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
The listed Bachelor of Science qualifications provide relevant pathways into biochemistry, but the evidence does not establish that one specific qualification is universally compulsory. Build an understanding of how molecular components function in living organisms and consider whether a focus such as enzyme chemistry, protein chemistry, plant biochemistry or toxicology suits your interests. Verify current study and progression details with the relevant institution.
Useful school subjects
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Mathematics
Skills that may help
- Scientific investigation
- Understanding molecular structure and function
- Biochemical analysis
- Attention to detail
- Analytical and logical reasoning
- Specialist knowledge of enzymes, proteins or toxicology