Research Careers

I’m interested in a Laboratory Sciences, Medical Research or Basic Research. Why should I major in BCMB?

Employment Prospects

Employment prospects are bright for research scientists. The demand for biochemists and medical scientists is expected to grow much faster than the average, at a rate of 31% and 36%, respectively, over the next 10 years. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

The molecular life sciences are at the forefront of scientific discovery. Over the past decade, an ever growing arsenal of techniques has helped researchers dissect the innermost secrets of the cell and develop new ways to detect and attack disease. These techniques also have been used to produce vast amounts of once rare drugs and vaccines, trace the path of evolution, create instant tests for a host of illnesses, warn people when their children might inherit a deadly disease, and identify criminals and victims of disasters. The leaders in this scientific revolution have been biochemists and molecular biologists. —from American Society of Biochemists and Molecular Biologists.

Graduate Programs

There are a wide range of research disciplines you can pursue in employment or graduate programs after you complete your BCMB degree. These include not only biochemistry and molecular biology, but microbiology, medicinal chemistry, epidemiology, nutrition, pharmacology, neuroscience, immunology, virology, informatics, forensics, and genetics.

Because our program is personal, hands-on and laboratory-rich, your undergraduate BCMB major will prepare you for these labs and programs. Learning research at Drake, allows you to develop personal, mentoring connections with your faculty research advisor and fellow research team members. Because Drake's BCMB program is grounded in the liberal arts, it helps provide a well-rounded education that contributes to the flexibility in future career choices and fields.

Alumni Success

We have a record of success in helping students enter this wide range of laboratory careers. Over the last few years, nearly 12% of our students have pursued Ph.D. programs in basic and applied sciences. About 18% of our graduates are working in laboratories, in biotechnology research, medical research, forensic analysis, clinical testing and chemical research.