Also called: Cryo-Electron Microscopist, X-ray Crystallographer
Takes 3D 'photos' of molecules at near-atomic detail to see exactly how they work.
Freezes a protein sample in a thin layer of ice, loads it into a room-sized electron microscope, and collects thousands of images overnight. The next day, a computer stitches them into a 3D model they can spin around on screen.
Estimate; academic postdocs earn far less (~$60k).
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Doctorate (PhD), about 10 years after high school. PhD in biochemistry, biophysics, or structural biology.
Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Biophysics, Biochemistry, Physics.
Growing faster than average (about 6% over 10 years). Estimate tied to biochemists projection.
Medium risk in 5 years, high in 10. AI structure prediction now answers many questions without a microscope; cryo-EM experts remain for hard, dynamic targets.
Classes: AP Chemistry, AP Physics, AP Biology, AP Calculus.
Official data: O*NET occupation 19-1021.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.