Bioinformatics Scientists

Job Zone 5 - Extensive preparation needed

Conduct research using bioinformatics theory and methods in areas such as pharmaceuticals, medical technology, biotechnology, computational biology, proteomics, computer information science, biology and medical informatics. May design databases and develop algorithms for processing and analyzing genomic information, or other biological information.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $98,920/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$60,430$168,010

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +1.2% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.

About 4,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills

Reading ComprehensionCritical ThinkingActive ListeningComplex Problem SolvingSpeakingWritingScienceActive LearningJudgment and Decision MakingMathematics

Top knowledge areas

BiologyComputers and ElectronicsMathematicsEnglish LanguageChemistryEducation and TrainingAdministrativeEngineering and Technology

Core tasks

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

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

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

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

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

• Keep abreast of new biochemistries, instrumentation, or software by reading scientific literature and attending professional conferences.

• Develop data models and databases.

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

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Bioinformatics Scientists?

The median pay for Bioinformatics Scientists is $98,920 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Bioinformatics Scientists?

Employment for Bioinformatics Scientists is projected to change +1.2% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.

What education is typically required for Bioinformatics Scientists?

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.

How many job openings are there each year for Bioinformatics Scientists?

About 4,800 openings per year, on average, over the decade.