Bioinformatics Scientists
O*NET 19-1029.01 · SOC 19-1029
Bioinformatics Scientist is a solid career choice. Median pay is $99k a year with +4.7% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 4,300 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Develop computational pipelines to analyze genomic sequencing data.
- →Write scripts to automate biological database queries.
- →Align DNA sequences to reference genomes using bioinformatics tools.
- →Interpret RNA-seq data to identify differentially expressed genes.
- →Collaborate with wet-lab scientists to design data collection strategies.
Education & How to Get In
Bioinformatics Scientist roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
Get Started Learning
Ready to start building skills for a career as a Bioinformatics Scientist? These platforms offer courses you can start today, many with free trials or financial aid.
Links open in a new tab. Some may include affiliate partnerships.
Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Bioinformatics Scientist involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Bioinformatics Scientist?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Bioinformatics Scientist Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
Explore More Careers
Job Outlook
Employment of Bioinformatics Scientists is projected to grow 4.7% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·36% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·32% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Bioinformatics Scientist make?
The median Bioinformatics Scientist earns $99k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Bioinformatics Scientist jobs?
Our model puts Bioinformatics Scientist at 41 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 36% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 32% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Bioinformatics Scientist a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 4.7% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 4,300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Bioinformatics Scientist?
Bioinformatics Scientist roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Bioinformatics Scientist?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Bioinformatics Scientist career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →Free to take · Matches $9 · No account required · 7 minutes