Is Pre-Med worth it? Stress/workload/hours?

WayOutWestMom
Thu, 06 Jan 2011 22:05:16 +0000

2. Bio-informatics sounds like it might be interesting. Does anybody know much about job outlook, security, stress, etc? What career could I have with that major? I’m gonna have to do a little research, but I don’t want a job where I have to come with experiments to do and hope that they helped others enough for me to earn money.



From the BLS: [19-1029.01 - Bioinformatics Scientists](19-1029.01 - Bioinformatics Scientists)

Bio-informatics job description:

Analyze large molecular datasets such as raw microarray data, genomic sequence data, and proteomics data for clinical or basic research purposes.

Consult with researchers to analyze problems, recommend technology-based solutions, or determine computational strategies.

Manipulate publicly accessible, commercial, or proprietary genomic, proteomic, or post-genomic databases.

Communicate research results through conference presentations, scientific publications, or project reports.

Compile data for use in activities such as gene expression profiling, genome annotation, and structural bioinformatics.

Create novel computational approaches and analytical tools as required by research goals.

Create or modify web-based bioinformatics tools.

Design and apply bioinformatics algorithms including unsupervised and supervised machine learning, dynamic programming, or graphic algorithms.

Develop data models and databases.

Develop new software applications or customize existing applications to meet specific scientific project needs.



Bio-informatics job outlook:

Median wages (2009) $31.98 hourly, $66,510 annual
Employment (2008) 32,000 employees
Projected growth (2008-2018) Faster than average (14% to 19%)
Projected job openings (2008-2018) 16,100