What Can You Do With a Bioinformatics Degree in 2025?

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Entering the bioinformatics workforce typically requires a strong foundation in both biological sciences and computational skills. Prospective bioinformaticians often pursue degrees in bioinformatics, computational biology, or related fields, where they learn to handle and analyze large biological datasets.

Continuous learning is essential in this rapidly evolving field, with professionals often engaging in ongoing education to stay abreast of new tools and methodologies. In fact, CareerExplorer reports that most bioinformaticians are doctoral graduates, with 46% of them holding the credential.

Keep reading to explore what you can do with a bioinformatics degree, how to prepare for the field, and the exciting career options that await.

Key things you should know about what to do with a bioinformatics degree

Common bioinformatics career paths include roles such as data analyst, computational biologist, software developer, and research scientist in academic, clinical, or industry settings.
The median annual salary for bioinformaticians in the U.S. was around $94,000 as of a 2025 report, with higher earnings in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors.
Bioinformaticians typically need a bachelor's degree in bioinformatics, biology, computer science, or a related field, with many roles requiring a master's or PhD.

Why pursue a career in bioinformatics in 2025?
What is the job outlook for bioinformaticians?
What are the necessary skills for bioinformaticians?
How do you start a career in bioinformatics?
How long does it take to become a bioinformatician?
What are the most common specializations of bioinformaticians?
How can you advance your career in bioinformatics?
What emerging trends are shaping the future of bioinformatics?
Can an online technology degree enhance your bioinformatics career?
How can I pursue a cost-effective advanced degree in bioinformatics?
How do bioinformatics salaries compare with other related fields?
What bioinformatics certifications can boost your career prospects?
What are the alternative career options for bioinformaticians?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Bioinformatcian

Why pursue a career in bioinformatics in 2025?

A career in bioinformatics helps you contribute to scientific discoveries that can improve human health. Bioinformaticians play a critical role in decoding complex biological data, such as DNA sequences, to advance research in genetics, disease mechanisms, and drug development. Their work supports breakthroughs in personalized medicine and helps identify effective treatments for diseases ranging from cancer to rare genetic disorders.

Bioinformatics sits at the intersection of biology, computer science, and statistics, making it ideal for individuals who enjoy solving complex problems using technology. It allows professionals to apply coding, data analysis, and mathematical models to biological questions. This interdisciplinary approach not only makes the work intellectually stimulating but also opens doors to varied applications, from agricultural research to environmental science.

Another reason to consider bioinformatics is its flexibility in terms of career paths and work environments. Professionals can choose to work in research labs, corporate settings, academia, or even remotely, depending on their interests and skills. Some specialize in algorithm development, while others focus on data interpretation or software engineering, making it a customizable and dynamic career.

Furthermore, many bioinformaticians find their work personally fulfilling, knowing their contributions can lead to life-saving discoveries and innovations. Whether it's identifying a gene linked to a rare disease or helping optimize clinical trial data, bioinformatics professionals help advance modern science and medicine. For those who are passionate about both biology and technology, it's a field that offers purpose, progress, and exciting potential.

What is the job outlook for bioinformaticians?

The bioinformatics field offers strong career growth and stability. As data-driven approaches become central to the biologist career path and medical research, the demand for bioinformaticians continues to rise. Government agencies, universities, hospitals, and private biotech firms are investing in bioinformatics expertise, creating a steady stream of job opportunities across research and development, diagnostics, and informatics.

A BLS 2025 data indicates that employment for computer and information research scientists, including bioinformatics scientists, is projected to grow by 26% until 2033. We also learned that the broader field of computer-based analysis, encompassing bioinformatics, is expected to experience a 22% growth rate by 2030, four times higher than the average industry growth rate. This surge is attributed to the increasing integration of bioinformatics in precision medicine, genomics, and other cutting-edge research areas.

The global bioinformatics market reflects this upward trend, with projections estimating growth from $18.69 billion this year to $52.01 billion by 2034, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.05%. This expansion is driven by factors such as advancements in next-generation sequencing technologies, increased funding from both public and private sectors, and the integration of AI and machine learning into bioinformatics tools.

With a bioinformatics degree, you'll most likely end up working in healthcare.

What are the necessary skills for bioinformaticians?

As a bioinformatician, you'll need to possess combined technical, analytical, and communication skills to succeed in this interdisciplinary field. Your ability to manage complex biological data and extract meaningful insights depends on both specialized expertise and general competencies.

Essential Skills

Programming (e.g., Python, R, Perl): What does a computer programmer do? Programmers write custom scripts, analyzing large datasets and automating bioinformatics workflows. Python and R are especially popular for statistical computing and data visualization.
Data Analysis and Statistics: Bioinformaticians must interpret experimental data and draw accurate conclusions using statistical models. Understanding statistical methods ensures reliable, reproducible results in research and diagnostics.
Biological Knowledge: A strong foundation in molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry is critical to understanding the data being analyzed. It helps bioinformaticians interpret biological patterns and provide context for computational results.
Database Management: Working with large biological databases (e.g., GenBank, ENSEMBL) requires skills in querying, storing, and retrieving data efficiently. Knowledge of SQL and NoSQL systems is often important in handling structured and unstructured data.

General Skills

Problem-Solving: Bioinformaticians often face complex, undefined problems that require innovative thinking. The ability to troubleshoot issues and develop novel solutions is key to research and software development.
Communication: Clear communication helps bioinformaticians explain complex findings to biologists, clinicians, or stakeholders. Writing reports, publishing papers, and presenting results are regular parts of the job.
Time Management: Handling multiple datasets, software tools, and deadlines requires effective time management. Bioinformaticians must prioritize tasks and manage resources to meet research and organizational goals.
Collaboration: Most bioinformatics work is team-based, involving scientists from multiple disciplines. Being able to collaborate effectively ensures smooth integration of expertise and project success.

How do you start a career in bioinformatics?

Most bioinformaticians hold at least a bachelor’s degree in bioinformatics, biology, computer science, or a related discipline. In parallel with formal education, it’s important to develop technical skills through hands-on experience. Learning programming languages along with gaining familiarity with tools like BLAST, Bioconductor, or Galaxy, can significantly strengthen your qualifications. Participating in internships, lab work, or open-source projects will help you apply what you’ve learned to real-world biological datasets.

Building a strong portfolio is another crucial step. This can include code samples, documented projects, or published research. A well-organized portfolio demonstrates your problem-solving ability and proficiency with both biological concepts and computational tools, helping you stand out to employers or graduate programs.

Ultimately, networking and staying updated on industry trends can accelerate your career progress. Joining professional organizations, attending bioinformatics conferences, and contributing to online forums helps you connect with peers and experts in the field. These connections can lead to job opportunities, mentorship, or collaborative projects that enhance your career development.

What can I do with an Associate's Degree in Informatics?

Health Information Technician

Health information technicians manage and organize medical data, promoting accuracy, accessibility, and security in both paper and electronic systems. They often work in hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies.

Median salary: $48,780

Data Analyst (Junior Level)

Junior data analysts help collect, clean, and interpret data sets to support business decisions in areas like marketing, healthcare, or operations. They use tools like Excel, SQL, or Tableau for reporting and visualization.

Median salary: $56,000

Computer Support Specialist

These professionals provide technical help and support to users in office, school, or healthcare settings. They troubleshoot hardware and software issues and may assist in maintaining network systems.

Median salary: $59,660

Clinical Informatics Assistant

Clinical informatics assistants support the implementation and maintenance of health IT systems. They bridge the gap between clinical practice and information technology.

Median Salary: $52,000

What can I do with a Bachelor's Degree in Informatics?

Bioinformatics Analyst

Bioinformatics analysts work with biological data, using computational tools to identify patterns related to genes, proteins, or diseases. They often support research teams in biotechnology or pharmaceutical companies.

Median salary: $94,000

Data Analyst

Data analysts interpret complex datasets to help organizations make informed decisions. They are employed across sectors including healthcare, retail, and finance.

Median salary: $74,200

UX Designer

UX designers focus on improving the usability and user experience of digital products, combining technical skills with an understanding of human behavior. They work closely with developers and product teams to create intuitive interfaces.

Median salary: $90,000

Health Informatics Specialist

Health informatics specialists manage health data systems and help implement digital tools like electronic health records to improve care quality and efficiency. They often work in hospitals, insurance firms, or government agencies.

Median Salary: $88,300

Can you get a bioinformatician job with just a certificate?

It's possible to get an entry-level bioinformatician or bioinformatics technician job with just a certificate, especially if you already have a background in biology, computer science, or a related field. Certificate programs can provide practical training in key areas, making you competitive for support roles in research labs or biotech companies. However, most full-fledged bioinformatician positions—particularly in research or industry—typically require at least a bachelor’s degree, with many preferring candidates who hold a master’s or PhD for advanced analytical work.

Is it worth it to get a masters in biotech? Biotechnology and bioinformatics may be closely related fields, but note that they focus on different aspects of biology and technology. Bioinformatics focuses on using computers and software to analyze biological data, while biotechnology focuses on using biological systems or organisms to develop products.

How long does it take to become a bioinformatician?

Becoming a bioinformatician typically takes between 4 to 8 years, depending on your educational path and career goals. The most direct route is earning a bachelor’s degree in bioinformatics, biology, computer science, or a related field, which usually takes four years. This level of education may be enough for entry-level positions such as laboratory technician, data analyst, or junior bioinformatics developer.

For most mid- to senior-level roles, a master’s degree is either preferred or required. A master’s program in bioinformatics, computational biology, or a similar field typically takes an additional 1.5 to 2 years. These programs offer deeper training in algorithm development, statistical modeling, and biological data analysis, preparing graduates for more advanced responsibilities and better pay.

Some roles, especially in academic research or high-level industry R&D, require a PhD, which adds another 4 to 6 years. Doctoral studies focus on independent research and innovation, giving candidates the expertise to lead projects, publish findings, and develop novel methods in bioinformatics. PhD graduates often pursue careers as principal investigators, senior scientists, or professors.

What are the most common specializations of bioinformaticians?

Bioinformatician degree holders often specialize in specific areas of biology, data science, or technology to align with research goals or industry needs. These specializations allow them to apply their skills more effectively in targeted fields of medicine, agriculture, or biotechnology.

Genomics and Transcriptomics: Specialists in this area analyze DNA and RNA sequences to understand gene function, regulation, and expression. Their work supports personalized medicine, disease gene discovery, and evolutionary studies.
Proteomics: Proteomics bioinformaticians focus on the large-scale study of proteins, including their structures and functions. They help uncover how proteins interact in biological systems and contribute to drug discovery.
Systems Biology: This specialization involves modeling and simulating biological systems to understand complex interactions among genes, proteins, and metabolic pathways. It combines computational techniques with biological data to predict system-wide responses.
Clinical Bioinformatics: Clinical bioinformaticians work with medical data to support diagnostics, treatment planning, and patient care. They often contribute to precision medicine initiatives by linking genomic data to clinical outcomes.
Computational Drug Discovery: These bioinformaticians use simulations and predictive models to identify potential therapeutic compounds. Their work shortens drug development timelines and reduces costs for pharmaceutical companies.

Would you like to explore an entirely different field of science? If bioinformatics focuses on biological data and technology, you may want to go for something that focuses on the application of scientific methods and techniques to investigate crimes and analyze evidence for use in legal proceedings. We are talking about a forensic scientist career.

How can you advance your career in bioinformatics?

Advancing your career in bioinformatics involves building both your technical expertise and professional profile. Earning an advanced degree, such as a master's or doctorate, can open doors to research leadership roles or specialized positions in industry. Gaining proficiency in in-demand tools and programming languages also helps you stay competitive.

Publishing research, contributing to open-source projects, and presenting at conferences can position you as a thought leader in the field as well. In addition, you should seek mentorship, collaborate across disciplines, and stay updated on emerging technologies and trends in genomics, AI, and precision medicine. As you gain experience, you may progress into roles like lead bioinformatician, data science manager, or principal investigator.

What can I do with a Master's Degree in Bioinformatics?

Bioinformatics Scientist

Bioinformatics scientists design algorithms and develop tools to interpret genomic and molecular data, often supporting drug discovery or disease research. As one of the jobs that pay 100k with a degree, workers in this discipline can be seen frequently in biotech firms, research institutions, or pharmaceutical companies.

Median salary: $103,500

Computational Biologist

Computational biologists create mathematical models and simulations to understand biological systems and processes. Their work supports experimental biology by providing data-driven insights into areas like evolution, metabolism, or immune response.

Median salary: $101,200

Genomics Data Analyst

Bioinformatics is one of the best master's degree programs for data analysis careers. These professionals specialize in analyzing sequencing data to uncover genetic variations and their biological significance.

Median salary: $95,000

Bioinformatics Software Developer

Software developers in bioinformatics build and maintain tools used to store, visualize, and analyze biological data. They aim to achieve efficient and accurate data processing in research or clinical pipelines.

Median Salary: $99,800

What kind of job can I get with a Doctorate in Bioinformatics?

Principal Investigator (PI)

A principal investigator leads independent research projects, often securing grants and managing teams to explore advanced questions in genomics or computational biology. PIs typically work in universities, hospitals, or research institutions.

Median salary: $120,000/year

Director of Bioinformatics

This executive role involves overseeing a bioinformatics department or program, guiding scientific strategy, and aligning data initiatives with organizational goals. Directors often manage budgets, supervise teams, and represent the bioinformatics function at a senior level.

Median salary: $145,000/year

Senior Computational Biologist

Senior computational biologists lead the design and execution of data analysis pipelines for large-scale studies, such as cancer genomics or drug target identification. They often mentor junior scientists and collaborate across departments.

Median salary: $115,000

Scientific Consultant (Bioinformatics)

Scientific consultants provide expert advice on data strategy, software tools, or research design for biotech companies or research firms. They often work independently or for consulting agencies, applying their deep domain knowledge to client projects.

Median Salary: $125,000

What emerging trends are shaping the future of bioinformatics?

Rapid technological advancements and data integration are transforming bioinformatics. Industries are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud computing to enhance data analysis and accelerate discoveries in genomics and precision medicine. Emerging technologies like single-cell sequencing, multi-omics integration, and CRISPR-based screening are opening new avenues for research and clinical applications. These innovations require bioinformaticians to continually update their technical repertoire and adapt to evolving research methodologies. For professionals interested in bolstering their interdisciplinary skills, pursuing an online master of data science can provide strategic expertise in managing large-scale data and sophisticated analytics.

Can an online technology degree enhance your bioinformatics career?

In today’s digital landscape, supplementing bioinformatics expertise with advanced IT skills can offer a significant competitive edge. High-quality online technology degree programs provide flexible learning environments that focus on cutting-edge computational strategies and data management techniques. Such programs deliver practical training in areas like algorithm optimization, cloud computing, and machine learning, which can directly complement the analytical demands of bioinformatics. For example, earning the quickest information technology degree online not only broadens technical proficiencies but also fosters the integration of innovative IT solutions into biological data analysis, thereby enhancing overall career prospects.

How can I pursue a cost-effective advanced degree in bioinformatics?

Advanced degrees can significantly enhance career prospects in bioinformatics by providing specialized training and leadership skills. Professionals seeking to blend rigorous academic preparation with cost-efficiency can explore online programs designed to accommodate working schedules while maintaining high academic standards. Such programs often feature competitive tuition rates, scholarships, and financial aid options that aid in managing education expenses. Evaluating accreditation, program outcomes, and faculty expertise is crucial when choosing an affordable pathway that aligns with long-term career goals. For instance, consider the cheapest online masters degree in bioinformatics to balance quality education with financial practicality.

How do bioinformatics salaries compare with other related fields?

Bioinformatics salaries are generally competitive and often higher than many traditional biology or life science roles due to the technical and interdisciplinary skills required. While entry-level positions may start in the $59,500–$75,000 range, experienced bioinformaticians with advanced degrees can earn well above $100,000 per year. Their ability to analyze massive datasets and contribute directly to drug development, genomics, and personalized medicine makes them highly valuable in both academic and industry settings.

When compared to molecular biologists or lab-based researchers, bioinformaticians typically earn more, particularly as they gain experience. For example, a molecular biologist with a master’s degree might earn around $75,000 annually, whereas a bioinformatician with similar credentials and experience could earn $85,000–$100,000 or more. The premium reflects the demand for computational skills and the integration of software development, statistics, and biological knowledge in bioinformatics work.

In contrast, software engineers in tech—who share overlapping skills in programming and data analysis—often have higher average salaries than bioinformaticians. A software engineer in biotech may earn $110,000–$130,000 or more, depending on their experience and role. However, bioinformaticians who specialize in high-impact areas like AI-driven drug discovery or clinical genomics can match or even exceed those earnings, particularly in senior or leadership roles.

Data scientists, another comparable field, also tend to have strong salary prospects, often starting around $90,000 and climbing to $130,000 or higher. Bioinformaticians with strong data science capabilities—such as machine learning or deep learning applied to biological data—can transition into these roles or blend both disciplines, unlocking higher-paying opportunities in healthcare AI, biotech, or pharmaceuticals. You can look into pharmaceutical scientist and pharmacy tech salary to compare.

Ultimately, bioinformatics salaries sit at a favorable intersection between biology and tech. Professionals with advanced degrees, strong programming skills, and domain expertise in genetics or molecular biology are well-positioned to command competitive compensation. The growing demand for bioinformatics degree graduates across sectors like personalized medicine, agriculture, and infectious disease research means that salary potential is likely to rise further in the coming years.

What bioinformatics certifications can boost your career prospects?

Certifications in data science, genomics, or bioinformatics software add credibility to your skill set and enhance your job prospects by validating your skills and making you more competitive in the job market. These credentials demonstrate your commitment to ongoing learning and your ability to work with cutting-edge tools and methodologies.

HarvardX Professional Certificate in Data Science (edX): Provides foundational training for those curious about how to start a career in machine learning, R programming, and statistics
Certified Bioinformatics Professional (CompTIA & Bioinformatics.org): Recognized industry credential covering essential bioinformatics tools, databases, and computational methods
NCBI Genomic Data Science Certificate (Johns Hopkins University): Covers genomic data tools, statistical methods, and analysis platforms like Galaxy and Bioconductor
Rosalind Bioinformatics Programming Track: Interactive coding-based training focused on solving biological problems with algorithms and Python.

What are the alternative career options for bioinformaticians?

Bioinformaticians have a wide range of alternative career options due to their interdisciplinary training. Many of the skills used in bioinformatics—such as data analysis, coding, and modeling—are transferable to other high-demand fields. As a result, professionals in this field are well-positioned to shift into roles in data science, software development, or consulting without starting from scratch.

What else can a bioinformatician do?

One common path is transitioning into data science, particularly in industries like finance, marketing, or e-commerce. Bioinformaticians already have experience working with large datasets and applying statistical models, which aligns closely with what’s required in data science roles. With minor upskilling—such as learning business-focused analytics tools or machine learning frameworks—they can compete for roles that often offer higher salaries and broader career growth.

Another alternative is moving into software engineering or scientific programming. Many bioinformaticians are proficient in the languages used in tool development and data processing. This skill set can be applied to the app developer career path in tech, healthcare, or scientific computing, where the demand for developers with domain knowledge in biology or health is growing.

Some bioinformatics degree earners also choose careers in technical consulting or product management, especially at companies developing genomics or life sciences software. Their ability to translate complex scientific problems into technical requirements makes them valuable liaisons between developers, researchers, and business teams. These roles often involve client interaction, project planning, and product strategy—ideal for those who enjoy combining science and communication.

A career in pharmaceutical science would also make sense. But what do pharmaceutical scientists do? You can learn more about it and find out if it's something you'd want to explore.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Bioinformatics Careers

"Studying bioinformatics opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me—I learned how to code, analyze genetic data, and contribute to real-world research. It was challenging but incredibly rewarding to see my skills applied in cutting-edge healthcare projects." – Mel

"The degree gave me the perfect mix of biology and tech, which helped me land a job in biotech right after graduation. I loved how hands-on the coursework was, especially the chance to work on real datasets and publish my findings." – Ray

"I was drawn to the idea of using data to solve biological problems, and the program delivered exactly that. What surprised me most was how collaborative and fast-paced the field is—it felt amazing to be part of something so innovative." – Lena

Key Findings

Bioinformaticians decode complex biological data to advance genetics, disease mechanisms, and drug development.
Employment for this field is projected to grow by 26% over the next decade.
Most field positions require at least a bachelor-level bioinformatics degree, with many preferring those with a master’s or PhD.
Expect to spend 4 to 8 years to become a bioinformatician.
In drug development, NDA submission alone already takes a maximum of 2 years.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Bioinformatician

Do you need to know coding for bioinformatics?

Yes, coding is essential for a career in bioinformatics. Most bioinformaticians use programming languages like Python, R, or Perl to analyze large biological datasets, automate workflows, and develop computational tools. Coding enables professionals to process genomic sequences, perform statistical modeling, and visualize complex data in ways that manual analysis cannot handle. While some entry-level roles may involve limited programming, advancing in the field typically requires strong coding skills and familiarity with bioinformatics software and scripting environments.

Is bioinformatics a useful degree?

Yes, bioinformatics is a highly useful and valuable degree, especially in today’s data-driven world. As the volume of biological data increases, bioinformaticians play a crucial role in analyzing and interpreting this information to solve complex problems in healthcare, genetics, drug development, and environmental science. The skills gained in bioinformatics—such as programming, data analysis, and understanding of biological processes—are in high demand across industries like biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and personalized medicine. Additionally, the interdisciplinary nature of the degree, combining biology with computational science, provides graduates with a wide range of career opportunities and the potential to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in medicine and science.

Is bioinformatics hard to study?

Bioinformatics can be challenging to study, particularly because it requires mastering both biology and computational skills. Students must understand complex biological concepts, such as genomics, proteomics, and molecular biology, while simultaneously learning programming languages, data analysis techniques, and statistical modeling. The interdisciplinary nature of the field can make it demanding, as it requires balancing the technical aspects of coding and software with the biological understanding necessary to interpret data. However, for those with a strong interest in both science and technology, the rewards of solving real-world problems and contributing to scientific advancements can make the effort worthwhile.

Is bioinformatics better than biotechnology?

Whether bioinformatics is "better" than biotechnology depends on your career goals and interests. Bioinformatics focuses on using computational tools to analyze and interpret biological data, while biotechnology involves applying biological processes for industrial, medical, or agricultural purposes. If you are more interested in data analysis, coding, and working with large datasets to uncover insights, bioinformatics might be a better fit. However, if you're drawn to hands-on work with genetic engineering, drug development, or creating innovative biological products, biotechnology may be a better choice. Both fields offer exciting opportunities and are highly complementary, so the "better" option depends on whether you prefer the computational or applied side of biological sciences.

References:

BLS. (2025, April 18). Computer and Information Research Scientists. Retrieved May 8, 2025, from BLS.
CareerExplorer. (n.d.). What education do bioinformatics scientists have? Retrieved May 8, 2025, from CareerExplorer.
Fios Genomics. (n.d.). Bioinformatics 2025 Outlook: Thoughts from Bioinformaticians. Retrieved May 8, 2025, from Fios Genomics.
ZipRecruiter. (n.d.). Bioinformatics Salary. Retrieved May 8, 2025, from ZipRecruiter.