Military Biologists / Biochemists
Military Career
General Information
Description
Biologists/biochemists perform and oversee analyses in chemistry, microbiology, immunology, and other areas related to the biomedical laboratory field. They direct and conduct laboratory procedures to detect, diagnose, treat, and prevent disease. They lead basic and applied health sciences research, and evaluate findings related to the effects of various stimuli, such as altitude and temperature changes, on physiological systems. They identify and investigate microorganisms and their effects on human health, and they develop control methods by designing vaccines and antitoxins.
Explore this career outside the MilitaryWork Environment
Biologists/biochemists work in medical, clinical, and research laboratories. They may work outdoors while conducting field work on land or aboard ships.
Workplace at a Glance
What you can expect to experience while on the job
- Responsibility
- Exposure to job hazards
- Physical activity
- Decision making
- Repetitiveness
- Level of competition
- Time pressure
Comparable Industries
- Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Military Outlook
Service Branches
Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.
Army
Marine Corps
Navy
Air Force
Coast Guard
Space ForceMilitary Status
- Officer
- Managerial/professional
- College degree required
Military Workforce
Biologists / Biochemists in the Military
3,478
Salary
Salary Information
Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$123,441
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location. Learn more about Military benefits.
$29,299 - $362,582
What makes up a Military salary?
Military salaries include a lot more than just base pay.
They also offer:
- Housing allowances
- Subsistence allowances
- Special and incentive pays
- Cost-of-living allowances
- Hazardous-duty pay
- Bonuses
Learn more about what goes into a salary with the compensation estimator
Learn more about military insurance and retirement benefits
Education
Most Common Education Levels
People in this career achieve this level of education.
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Post-doctoral training 40%
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Doctoral degree 25%
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Bachelor's degree 25%
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First professional degree 10%
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High school 0%
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Some college 0%
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Master's degree 0%
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Associate's degree 0%
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Post baccalaureate 0%
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Less than high school 0%
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Post-master's certificate 0%
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Post-secondary certificate 0%
Military training
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for biologists/biochemists primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include: Altitude physiologySensory physiologyEmergency egressWater survivalLife support systemsAero medical aspects of flight
Read MoreSkills at a Glance
Skills helpful in this career
- Verbal skills
- Critical thinking & problem solving
- Equipment operation & maintenance
- Math & science skills
- Technology design & control
- Leadership
Related College Majors
Select major to see colleges that offer it
Knowledge
- Biology
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Physics
- English Language
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