Explore a possible path

Bioinformatics Scientists

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.

How does this connect to your interests? →

A look at the work

  • Consult with researchers to analyze problems, recommend technology-based solutions, or determine computational strategies.
  • Provide statistical and computational tools for biologically based activities, such as genetic analysis, measurement of gene expression, or gene function determination.
  • Analyze large molecular datasets, such as raw microarray data, genomic sequence data, or proteomics data, for clinical or basic research purposes.
  • Create novel computational approaches and analytical tools as required by research goals.
  • Compile data for use in activities, such as gene expression profiling, genome annotation, or structural bioinformatics.
  • Communicate research results through conference presentations, scientific publications, or project reports.
  • Test new and updated bioinformatics tools and software.
  • Design and apply bioinformatics algorithms including unsupervised and supervised machine learning, dynamic programming, or graphic algorithms.

A selection of source-listed tasks; duties vary by role and employer.

Interests involved in this work

These source scores describe occupational work activities. They are separate from your personal test results.

Hands-on

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

3.8 / 7

Investigative

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

7.0 / 7

Creative

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

2.5 / 7

Helping people

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

1.6 / 7

Enterprising

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

1.3 / 7

Organizing

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

5.0 / 7

Skills to explore

Source-reported importance on a 1–5 scale. Try a course, project or conversation to learn what these skills involve.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

2026-08

4.4 / 5

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

2026-08

4.0 / 5

Writing

Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

2026-08

4.0 / 5

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

2026-08

4.0 / 5

Science

Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

2026-08

4.0 / 5

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

2026-08

4.0 / 5

Complex Problem Solving

Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

2026-08

4.0 / 5

Mathematics

Using mathematics to solve problems.

2026-08

3.9 / 5

Active Learning

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

2026-08

3.9 / 5

Judgment and Decision Making

Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

2026-08

3.8 / 5

Plan a small next step

Talk to someone doing this work, look for a supervised activity, and explore the subjects that interest you. Admission, licensing and current program requirements should be confirmed with the relevant institutions.

Source preparation category: Job Zone 5 of 5 · 2026-08. This category describes typical preparation, not your eligibility.

Related study fields

Source crosswalk connections are research leads, not required qualifications.

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Source & methodology

O*NET-SOC code 19-1029.01 · Database 31.0 · Retrieved Oct 14, 2026. Dates on individual observations describe their source periods.

How interest exploration matching works →

Data: O*NET® 31.0 Database, U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. Used under CC BY 4.0. StudyIndex normalizes the presentation and adds exploration features; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed or tested these additions.