biochemist/references/tasks.md

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.