# Tasks & work activities — biochemist

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 19-1029.01 (Bioinformatics Scientists).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Keep abreast of new biochemistries, instrumentation, or software by reading scientific literature and attending professional conferences.
- **[Core]** Provide statistical and computational tools for biologically based activities, such as genetic analysis, measurement of gene expression, or gene function determination.
- **[Core]** Direct the work of technicians and information technology staff applying bioinformatics tools or applications in areas such as proteomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, or clinical bioinformatics.
- **[Core]** Develop new software applications or customize existing applications to meet specific scientific project needs.
- **[Core]** Develop data models and databases.
- **[Core]** Create or modify web-based bioinformatics tools.
- **[Core]** Design and apply bioinformatics algorithms including unsupervised and supervised machine learning, dynamic programming, or graphic algorithms.
- **[Core]** Create novel computational approaches and analytical tools as required by research goals.
- **[Core]** Compile data for use in activities, such as gene expression profiling, genome annotation, or structural bioinformatics.
- **[Core]** Communicate research results through conference presentations, scientific publications, or project reports.
- **[Core]** Manipulate publicly accessible, commercial, or proprietary genomic, proteomic, or post-genomic databases.
- **[Core]** Consult with researchers to analyze problems, recommend technology-based solutions, or determine computational strategies.
- **[Core]** Analyze large molecular datasets, such as raw microarray data, genomic sequence data, or proteomics data, for clinical or basic research purposes.
- **[Supplemental]** Recommend new systems and processes to improve operations.
- **[Supplemental]** Confer with departments, such as marketing, business development, or operations, to coordinate product development or improvement.
- **[Supplemental]** Collaborate with software developers in the development and modification of commercial bioinformatics software.
- **[Supplemental]** Test new and updated bioinformatics tools and software.
- **[Supplemental]** Prepare summary statistics of information regarding human genomes.
- **[Supplemental]** Instruct others in the selection and use of bioinformatics tools.
- **[Supplemental]** Improve user interfaces to bioinformatics software and databases.

## Detailed work activities

- Advise others on business or operational matters.
- Advise others on the development or use of new technologies.
- Analyze biological samples.
- Collaborate with technical specialists to resolve design or development problems.
- Develop software or applications for scientific or technical use.
- Develop technical or scientific databases.
- Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
- Research genetic characteristics or expression.
- Review professional literature to maintain professional knowledge.
- Supervise scientific or technical personnel.
- Train personnel in technical or scientific procedures.