Explore a possible path

Molecular and Cellular Biologists

Research and study cellular molecules and organelles to understand cell function and organization.

How does this connect to your interests? →

A look at the work

  • Maintain accurate laboratory records and data.
  • Design molecular or cellular laboratory experiments, oversee their execution, and interpret results.
  • Write grant applications to obtain funding.
  • Perform laboratory procedures following protocols including deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequencing, cloning and extraction, ribonucleic acid (RNA) purification, or gel electrophoresis.
  • Conduct research on cell organization and function, including mechanisms of gene expression, cellular bioinformatics, cell signaling, or cell differentiation.
  • Prepare or review reports, manuscripts, or meeting presentations.
  • Instruct undergraduate and graduate students within the areas of cellular or molecular biology.
  • Direct, coordinate, organize, or prioritize biological laboratory activities.

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

5.0 / 7

Investigative

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

6.7 / 7

Creative

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

2.0 / 7

Helping people

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

2.3 / 7

Enterprising

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

2.6 / 7

Organizing

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

5.1 / 7

Skills to explore

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

Science

Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

2021-08

4.8 / 5

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

2021-08

4.4 / 5

Writing

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

2021-08

4.3 / 5

Critical Thinking

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

2021-08

4.1 / 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.

2021-08

4.0 / 5

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

2021-08

4.0 / 5

Judgment and Decision Making

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

2021-08

4.0 / 5

Complex Problem Solving

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

2021-08

4.0 / 5

Active Learning

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

2021-08

3.9 / 5

Learning Strategies

Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.

2021-08

3.9 / 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 · 2021-08. This category describes typical preparation, not your eligibility.

Related study fields

Source crosswalk connections are research leads, not required qualifications.

Biology/Biological Sciences, General →

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Source & methodology

O*NET-SOC code 19-1029.02 · 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.