Science extends far beyond the traditional labs and classrooms many might associate with this discipline. Its impact on real-world challenges and industries has advanced healthcare and helped address global challenges.
We’ve collected some of the opportunities that graduates from science programs have to pursue science in the real world so you can read about all the possibilities that await you when you get a degree rooted in the applied life sciences.
8 Jobs in Applied Life Sciences
Clinical Research Coordinator
As a clinical research coordinator, you will be pivotal in advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care. Your responsibilities will include coordinating clinical research studies and ensuring compliance with regulations and protocols. In your day-to-day work, you’ll work closely with researchers, healthcare providers, and study participants to oversee all study aspects, from participant recruitment and informed consent to data collection and analysis. By meticulously managing study timelines, budgets, and regulatory requirements, you will contribute to developing new treatments and therapies, ultimately benefiting patients and advancing medical science.
Clinical research coordinators can make up to $86,355 in California.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist
As a regulatory affairs specialist, you will be a crucial bridge between life science companies and regulatory agencies. Your expertise in navigating complex regulations and standards will ensure that products meet safety and quality requirements. Some of your responsibilities will often include preparing regulatory submissions, communicating with regulatory authorities, and providing guidance to ensure compliance with pharmaceuticals, medical devices, or biotechnology products. By successfully guiding companies through the approval process, you will facilitate the availability of safe and effective healthcare products to patients worldwide while adhering to regulatory guidelines.
Regulatory affairs specialists can make up to $84,754 in California.
Healthcare Data Analyst
As a healthcare data analyst, you will analyze large datasets to uncover insights that inform strategic decisions in healthcare organizations. With your expertise in interpreting healthcare data, you can identify trends, patterns, and correlations that can improve patient outcomes and deliver more efficient healthcare. By working alongside healthcare professionals, you’ll translate data into actionable recommendations that drive evidence-based decision-making. Your analytical skills will contribute to advancements in patient care, resource allocation, and healthcare system improvement, ultimately shaping the future of healthcare solutions.
Healthcare data analysts can make up to $193,928 in California.
Bioprocess Engineer
As a bioprocess engineer, you will design and optimize manufacturing processes for biopharmaceuticals and biotechnology products. Your work can revolve around ensuring efficient and cost-effective production, maintaining product quality and safety, and complying with regulatory requirements. You will leverage your engineering principles, biology, and chemistry expertise to develop scalable processes that yield high-quality products. By streamlining production, you can contribute to the timely availability of life-saving drugs, therapies, and other biotechnology innovations that improve patient outcomes and save lives.
Bioprocess engineers can make up to $112,015 in California.
Genomic Variant Scientist
As a genomic variant scientist, you will work at the forefront of personalized medicine and genetic research. By leveraging your expertise in human genetics and advanced genomic technologies, you can analyze genetic data to identify disease-related variations. As you examine genetic variations and their impact on human health, you can contribute to developing personalized therapies and interventions. Your work will also support genetic counselors, healthcare professionals, and researchers by providing crucial insights into the genetic basis of diseases, enabling more effective diagnoses, treatment strategies, and preventative measures.
Genomic scientists can make up to $135,700 in California.
Biotechnology Entrepreneur
As a biotechnology entrepreneur, you’ll bring scientific innovations from the research lab to the marketplace. With your interdisciplinary knowledge of science and business, you can identify commercially viable opportunities and transform them into successful startups. Whether it's developing new therapies, diagnostics, or biotech-related services, you will navigate the intricacies of business strategy, funding, intellectual property, and regulatory compliance. By taking risks, leading teams, and leveraging the power of innovation, you can create jobs, drive economic growth, and make a significant impact on the healthcare and life science industry.
Biotechnology professionals in California can make up to $181,647, but the salary for entrepreneurs can vary greatly.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist
As a clinical laboratory scientist, you will conduct diagnostic tests and analyze patient samples in clinical laboratories. Your meticulous attention to detail will ensure accuracy and reliability in test results, aiding healthcare professionals in disease diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and patient management. Your expertise will span various laboratory techniques, such as microscopy, molecular biology, and immunology. By consistently delivering precise and timely results, you can contribute to improved patient care, enabling healthcare providers to make informed decisions and provide optimal treatment plans.
Clinical laboratory scientists can make up to $177,652 in California.
Healthcare Technology Consultant
As a healthcare technology consultant, you will provide guidance and expertise in implementing and optimizing technology solutions in healthcare organizations. Your role may revolve around understanding the complex landscape of healthcare technology, staying abreast of advancements, and aligning them with organizational needs and goals. By collaborating with stakeholders, you can identify opportunities for adopting new technologies that enhance patient care, improve workflow efficiency, and ensure data security. By bridging the gap between technology and healthcare, you’ll empower organizations to leverage cutting-edge systems and tools, ultimately driving better healthcare outcomes.
Healthcare technology consultants can make up to $154,320 in California.
In each of these careers, whether it's coordinating clinical research, navigating regulatory landscapes, analyzing data, or driving innovation through entrepreneurship, you have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the world.
Keck Graduate Institute’s Degrees in Applied Life Sciences
At Keck Graduate Institute, we take pride in our impactful approach to scientific education. Our institution stands as a testament to the power of interdisciplinary learning, where we seamlessly combine the disciplines of life sciences, pharmacy, genetics, engineering, and business to pave the way for future leaders in the applied life sciences.
At the core of our educational philosophy is the belief that integrating different scientific disciplines makes each stronger and more effective. By embracing an interdisciplinary approach, we empower students to navigate the complex intersection between disciplines, equipping them with a comprehensive understanding that goes beyond the confines of a single discipline.
If you’re interested in a graduate degree that opens doors in the applied life sciences, explore our degrees and certificates. You can also schedule some time to meet with one of our admissions counselors or request more information about our programs. You can also start your application now!
