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First, some facts. Of the Molecular Biology graduates we've analyzed , here's how many have used (or NOT used) their degree in their career:
These are estimates based on AI analysis of 217 LinkedIn profiles (see below).
The verdict? Slightly above average. Overall, with an average relevance score of 69%, Molecular Biology graduates have a slightly higher likelihood (+2%) of finding work in this field compared to the average graduate across all fields:
And for comparison, here's the chart for all profiles we've looked at across all degrees.
Also, after graduating, 55% of these graduates have pursued further education other than another Bachelor's degree (such as a Masters degree or other), compared to the average across all profiles of 35%. This suggests you may need more than just a Bachelors degree to be competitive as a Molecular Biology graduate.
See the details:
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Relevance score: 73% We think this person has gone into a career highly relevant to their degree.
DEGREE INFOGraduated in 2015 from Princeton University with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Molecular Biology. Also pursued further education since (see below). JOB HISTORY SINCE GRADUATIONProgram Associate Association to Benefit Children (ABC) Aug 2015 - Jul 2016 Higher Education Tutor  Blueprint Test Prep Apr 2020 - Jul 2023 Pediatric Resident  Children's Hospital of Philadelphia May 2020 - Present Chief Resident Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Jun 2023 - Present FURTHER DEGREES DONE SINCE GRADUATINGDoctor of Medicine (M.D.)Donald & Barbara Zucker School of Medicine 2016 - 2020 ABOUTNo information provided. |
The top 10 most common jobs done by the graduates we've analyzed (ranked most common to least) are:
After analyzing a vast array of LinkedIn profiles from individuals who have graduated with degrees in Molecular Biology, it becomes evident that their career paths show a wide range of applications, from highly relevant roles to entirely unrelated positions. The most common job types in the data center heavily revolve around research positions—like Research Assistants and Technologists—where a clear connection to molecular biology is evident. Other prevalent occupations include roles like Medical Assistants and Clinical Research Coordinators, which also utilize foundational understanding of the field, but not to the same extent as lab-based roles. Conversely, some individuals have ventured into fields like sales, education, management, or customer service, where their molecular biology background is hardly relevant, showcasing the diversity of career paths available to graduates.
On a closer examination, the relevance of the occupations to molecular biology largely corresponds to the nature of the job. Positions that involve laboratory work, research, or direct patient care tend to be closely tied to molecular biology principles, while roles in consulting, management, or education often exhibit a weaker connection. However, it’s important to highlight that graduates applying their molecular biology knowledge in various contexts can still leverage their education effectively. In many cases, such as in teaching or healthcare consulting, while the core specifics of molecular biology may not be required daily, the analytical and scientific thinking skills gained during their studies remain beneficial. Therefore, while many graduates do find relevant positions that directly relate to their degree, a significant portion winds up in roles where their education is less central, signifying that a Molecular Biology degree can lead to diverse career opportunities beyond the lab bench.
Here is a visual representation of the most common words in job titles for Molecular Biology graduates:
Looking at the career trajectories of graduates with degrees in Molecular Biology, it's pretty clear that many of them take quite diverse paths. Starting off from their early jobs post-graduation, most individuals align themselves with roles directly related to their degree, such as research positions or lab technicians. For example, many folks get their foot in the door as lab assistants, research assistants, or even in clinical settings where they gain hands-on experience. A great example comes from a couple of graduates who went right into positions like “Research Assistant” or “PCR Technician.” It’s worth noting that those entering the workforce in labs and research tend to build on that experience into supervisory or managerial roles within a few years, reflecting a natural progression in their careers.
However, it’s important to recognize that not everyone sticks closely to the science track. A fair number of graduates find themselves veering off into unrelated fields, often due to shifts in interest or the competitive job market. For instance, graduates from some universities end up in sales, teaching, or even positions like bartending or as hotel staff within just a year or two after graduation. Looking at some 5 or 10-year career markers shows that while many continue to thrive within the life sciences, some venture into totally different industries, and occasionally even management or administrative roles that don't directly tie back to their original field of study. Overall, while a robust portion of these individuals finds fulfilling careers that leverage their molecular biology education, there’s a noticeable trend where some end up in seemingly unrelated jobs, making it a mixed bag of outcomes for graduates in this field.
A Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology can be quite challenging, but it really depends on your passion for the subject and your study habits. You'll be diving into some complex topics like genetics, biochemistry, and cell biology, and the coursework often includes a lot of lab work, which can be fun but also time-consuming. If you're someone who enjoys science and doesn't mind putting in the effort, you might find it rewarding rather than overwhelming. However, for those who aren't super into science or struggle with concepts like chemistry or math, it can feel pretty tough. Overall, it’s about average in terms of difficulty, but definitely requires commitment and a willingness to engage with the material!
Most commonly, in the LinkedIn profiles we've looked at, it takes people 4 years to finish a Bachelor degree in Molecular Biology.
Looking at the job histories of these Molecular Biology graduates, it seems like a mixed bag when it comes to salary. Some folks, like the graduates from Brigham Young University and California State University, Monterey Bay, have landed positions as Senior Microbiologists and Quality Assurance Managers, which usually come with good pay. Others, like the guy from the University of Nebraska who’s been a bartender since graduation, might not be raking in the big bucks just yet. So, while some have definitely made decent money with their careers progressing into more senior roles, others still seem to be finding their way and might not be earning as much.
In terms of stability and growth potential, many of these graduates show promising trajectories. For example, the graduate from California State University, Fresno, is already a Chief Operating Officer, which places them in a solid financial position. On the flip side, those in early or temporary roles, like students or recent grads pursuing internships or part-time jobs, might not reflect the same financial success just yet. The overall theme? A lot of these jobs are stepping stones, and financial success seems to be more within reach for those moving into managerial or specialized roles.
Here is a visual representation of the most common words seen in the "about" section of LinkedIn profiles who have a Bachelor degree in Molecular Biology. This may or may not be useful:
