Explore Careers

Biologists/Biochemists

Explore Careers

Biologists/Biochemists

Health Science
Officer Role

Service Branches with this Role

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What do Biologists/Biochemists do in the Military?

Biologists/biochemists perform and oversee analyses in chemistry, microbiology, immunology, and other areas related to the biomedical laboratory field.

Where do Biologists/Biochemists work?

Biologists/biochemists work in medical, clinical, and research laboratories. They may work outdoors while conducting field work on land or aboard ships.

How much do they make?

Median Military Salary

This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$94,160

Military Salary Range

This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$23,672 - $356,862

How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary

Base pay is the standard income you'll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.

  • Set based on rank and years of service.
  • Paid every month.

Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.

  • Tax-free payments.
  • Varies by location and family status.

Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.

  • Based on specialized roles.
  • Varies by position and duty.

What training do Biologists/Biochemists gain in the Military?

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving.   Job training for biologists/biochemists primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments.  Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.  Job-specific training content may include:  

  • Altitude physiology
  • Sensory physiology
  • Emergency egress
  • Water survival
  • Life support systems
  • Aero medical aspects of flight

Military Training for Officers

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree. All officers complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.

What skills help Biologists/Biochemists succeed?

  • Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely
  • Interest in mathematics, chemistry, biology, and medical research
  • Interest in scientific work
  • Good observation skills

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Biological Technicians
  • Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
  • Epidemiologists
  • Biologists
  • Geneticists
  • Molecular and Cellular Biologists
  • Microbiologists
  • Biochemists and Biophysicists

Interested? Take Your Next Step!