Biochemical engineer

Biochemical engineers are concerned with chemical changes in living things. They apply their scientific knowledge to create safe and efficient processes in the production of pharmaceuticals and foodstuffs, and in the treatment of waste.

Work activities

Biochemical engineers apply scientific principles to develop processes and equipment which changes raw materials into a wide range of products, such as pharmaceuticals, food and fuels. Those who work for pharmaceutical companies use their knowledge to produce drugs, medicines, vaccines and hormones. Biochemical engineers find and produce the right mixture of components to make a drug, and then make sure that the drug can be produced on the right scale for the people who need it.

Biochemical engineers work out what the processes are, and then design, develop and monitor the equipment needed to produce a drug on a large scale. They use computers to simulate, model and control such processes. They then monitor the development of processes and make any changes or improvements if necessary. Other biochemical engineers work alongside life scientists to develop genetic engineering techniques. These enable medical professionals to treat a wide range of medical conditions in the body, without the need for drug treatments. They take into account cost, safety and environmental concerns. Biochemical engineers may also work for biotechnology companies that use genetic engineering techniques to try to improve crop yields or increase their resistance to pests and disease.

Some biochemical engineers work for food processing companies, helping to transfer food from producers to consumers in a safe, convenient and environmentally friendly way. Biochemical engineers have a very important role in protecting the environment. For example, they may use mixtures of growing biological cells to detoxify human waste and many types of industrial waste. Biochemical engineers may lead teams, including other engineers and engineering technicians. They also work with biologists and chemists. Work normally takes place in an office, industrial plant or laboratory.

Personal qualities and skills

As a biochemical engineer, you need:

To enjoy solving problems as well as applying logic and creativity to think of new ways to solve problems.
To be committed to keeping up to date with advances in this fast-changing area.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with engineers and scientists from other disciplines.
The ability to lead and motivate others.
To work well as part of a team.
An excellent grasp of modern technology.
A commitment to protecting the environment.
Knowledge of issues such as waste management and climate change.

Pay and opportunities

According to job site Glassdoor, biochemical engineers earn an average of £28,000 - £46,000 per year (based on 24,000 salaries).

Most biochemical engineers work a full-time week, Monday to Friday. However, early starts, late finishes and some weekend work may be required, especially as deadlines approach.

Employers are pharmaceutical companies (using biochemical techniques to make medicines), food and drink manufacturers, waste disposal firms and government departments, for example, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Opportunities for biochemical engineers occur with employers in towns and cities throughout the UK.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised in local/national newspapers, trade industry publications, and on the Government’s Find a Job service. Vacancies can also be found through specialist engineering recruitment agencies, internet job boards and the websites of professional engineering bodies.

Entry routes and training

Biochemical engineers usually complete a relevant engineering degree, foundation degree or HND, such as biochemical engineering. Some courses combine chemical engineering with biochemical engineering, environmental engineering, pharmaceutical engineering and biotechnology. Specialist degrees in biochemical engineering are available at a small number of universities. It’s also possible to complete a first degree in general chemical engineering and then complete postgraduate training or a postgraduate qualification in biochemical engineering. It’s essential to check prospectuses carefully to make sure the course you choose is appropriate to the branch of engineering you want to follow.

Some graduates join graduate training schemes, which offer structured training and learning. Depending on their level of entry, biochemical engineers can gain chartered engineer (CEng) or Incorporated Engineer (IEng) professional status. Both are highly regarded by employers throughout industry. To register as a CEng or an IEng, you must join a relevant, professional engineering institution licensed by the Engineering Council, such as the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE). To become a CEng or an IEng, you need to demonstrate the appropriate competence and commitment.

Depending on their qualification, biochemical engineers can progress by taking on more responsibility for the management of engineering projects and teams of engineers. Some biochemical engineers choose to become self-employed or take contract work on a freelance basis.

Qualifications

To enter a degree course in biochemical engineering, the usual requirement is:

Three A-levels. At least two science subjects (from maths, chemistry, physics or biology) are often required at A-level.
GCSEs in your A-level subjects at grades 9-4.
A further two to three GCSEs at grades 9-4. English, maths and a science subject are usually required at GCSE at grades 9-4.

Other qualifications, such as a relevant Edexcel (BTEC) level 3 National or the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma are often accepted.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: it is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

If you don’t have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course (e.g. Access to Engineering) could be the way in. These courses are designed for people who have not followed the usual routes into higher education. No formal qualifications are usually needed, but you should check this with individual colleges. There are a few courses available with part time/flexible or distance study options.

Information on pathways to registration as a Chartered (CEng) or Incorporated (IEng) Engineer can be found on the Engineering Council’s website.

Funding for postgraduate courses may be available through universities from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).

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