Molecular Biologist
18AI CAN DO18%moving to63%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSD
STARTING PAY£25,000 - £30,000
NO MOATNo physical, legal or personal barrier protects this work from software.
CAREERMASH (EN)FROM BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES →
Molecular Biologist
Molecular Biologists study how life works at the tiniest level - looking at genes, DNA, and proteins. They do lab work that helps develop new medicines, understand diseases, and improve crops and food.
AI helps here, but has not taken over
AI can already do some of this job, but the day-to-day work still leans on a person to decide, check and take responsibility. Nothing formally protects this job though, so the safest move is to keep building the judgement AI cannot yet copy.
Career progression path
Is this the only route?
This is the standard academic trajectory, but modern careers are highly flexible. You can often skip stagesby entering the industry with an advanced qualification (like a Master's or PhD), or pivot sideways from a related discipline.
0ACADEMIC FOUNDATIONUniversity DegreeUsually 3 to 4 years of full-time academic study, explicitly preparing you for the theoretical realities of the industry. Requires A-Levels, BTECs, or equivalent Level 3.-£83,910Avg. UK tuition & living
1FIRST STEPJunior Molecular BiologistIn this entry-level role, you will assist in laboratory experiments, collect data, and support senior researchers in their projects. This position is ideal for recent graduates looking to gain hands-on experience.£25,000 - £30,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-level Molecular BiologistAs a mid-level molecular biologist, you will lead your own research projects, mentor junior staff, and contribute to grant applications. Your expertise will be crucial in driving innovative research.£34,000 - £42,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Molecular Biologist/Head of ResearchIn this peak career role, you will oversee large research teams, set strategic research directions, and collaborate with industry partners. Your leadership will shape the future of molecular biology in the UK.£48,000+
There is more than one way in
You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely.
Recommended UK degrees
Real courses that qualify you for this career, from the same register that priced the degree above.
Doctorate in Microbiology, GeneralThe University of Montana · DoctorateMedical BiochemistrySwansea University · DegreeGraduado o Graduada en BiologíaUniversitat Rovira i Virgili · GradoDoctorate in Pharmacology and ToxicologyUniversity of California-Irvine · DoctorateBachelor's degree in Biology/Biological Sciences, GeneralIowa State University · BachelorGeologíaUniversidad Del Norte · Bachelor