What is a computational biologist and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Quoted expert

Dr. Elizabeth Capaldi Ph.D.

A computational biologist applies computer science, mathematics, and statistics to solve biological problems. They develop algorithms and software to analyze biological data and understand the structure and function of proteins and biomolecules. Computational biologists also use machine learning techniques to identify patterns and predict outcomes in complex biological systems. They collaborate with biologists, biochemists, and researchers to interpret their findings. Computational biologists work in settings including academic institutions, government agencies, and private companies.

What general advice would you give to a computational biologist?

Dr. Elizabeth Capaldi Ph.D.

Professor of Biology, Animal Behavior, Director of Neuroscience, Bucknell University

We know that employers value critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and high communication skills. Our majors have those skill sets: but entry-level jobs are hard to come by - there aren't many openings at this point. I believe that landing the few available jobs right now will also require creativity and flexibility.

ScoreComputational BiologistUS Average

Salary

4.8

Avg. Salary $61,449

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability level

5.2

Growth rate 17%

Growth rate 0.3%

Diversity

5.1

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.64%

Asian 16.99%

Black or African American 2.65%

Hispanic or Latino 7.39%

Unknown 5.11%

White 67.21%

Gender

female 19.75%

male 80.25%

Age - 39

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 39

Stress level

5.2

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity level

7.3

Complexity level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work life balance

5.6

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

What are the pros and cons of being a computational biologist?

Pros

High demand for computational biologists in industry and academia
Potential for flexible working arrangements, such as remote work or flexible hours
Chance to develop and apply new computational tools and methods
Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
Potential for high salaries and job security

Cons

Competition for funding and research grants can be intense
Limited job opportunities in certain geographic areas
Pressure to publish research regularly
High levels of responsibility in accurately interpreting and analyzing data
Possibility of feeling disconnected from the biological aspects of research

Key steps to become a computational biologist

Explore computational biologist education requirements

Most common computational biologist degrees

Bachelor's

53.0 %

Master's

25.3 %

Doctorate

19.3 %

Start to develop specific computational biologist skills

Skills	Percentages
Python	24.32%
Machine Learning	12.95%
Next-Generation Sequencing	8.71%
C++	5.69%
Visualization	5.33%

Research computational biologist duties and responsibilities

Develop UNIX shell script, PERL and AWK program and apply TECPLOT software macro files to automate data processing and report.
Manage detailed GLP laboratory manual daily.
Design and perform model-based gene expression analysis with whole genome tiling-microarray data sets using SAS.
Generate QC report and plots for new RNASeq samples using BAM files, PICARD, SAM tools etc.

Apply for computational biologist jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a computational biologist job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

Browse job boards for relevant postings
Consult your professional network
Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
Watch out for job scams