What They Do
Conduct biological research and experiments not focused on specific subfields like botany or zoology.
Employment Impact
61.2K
People employed
1.2M
Estimated global impact (extrapolated from US market data)
AI Impact Overview
Artificial intelligence will significantly augment and automate data-intensive and repetitive tasks in biological sciences but is unlikely to fully replace roles requiring experimental creativity, scientific judgment, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Detailed Analysis
While artificial intelligence tools are rapidly gaining traction in analyzing large datasets, image recognition, protein structure prediction, and literature mining for biological sciences, the need for hypothesis generation, experimental design, and regulatory navigation ensures continued demand for skilled biological scientists. The broad nature of the 'all other' category means some specialized or field-based jobs will remain largely insulated, whereas routine lab and data processing roles could become highly automated. Those able to use artificial intelligence as a tool and adapt to evolving workflows will maintain strong job security.
Opportunity
"Biological scientists who proactively acquire artificial intelligence and computational skills, while emphasizing their creative and leadership capacities, are positioned not just to survive but to thrive in the evolving landscape."
AI Risk Assessment
Risk level varies by experience level
Junior Level
Entry-level roles focused on data entry, basic experimental procedures, or routine analyses are at high risk of automation as artificial intelligence tools become increasingly capable of handling these tasks at scale.
Mid-level
Mid-career scientists engaged in experimental planning, cross-functional research, or facilitating artificial intelligence integration are moderately exposed and can reduce risk by upskilling and adapting.
Senior Level
Senior scientists involved in strategic planning, grant acquisition, interdisciplinary research leadership, or regulatory workface minimal risk as artificial intelligence is unlikely to replace the need for these uniquely human capabilities.
AI-Driven Job Forecasts
2 Years
Near-term Outlook
Job Outlook
Jobs will remain largely stable, with increased pressure to adopt artificial intelligence-assisted tools for data analysis and literature review. Competition will intensify for roles utilizing bioinformatics and computational biology.
Transition Strategy
Enroll in artificial intelligence and data analysis training, join interdisciplinary teams, and seek certifications in artificial intelligence tools relevant to experimental biology.
5 Years
Medium-term Impact
Job Outlook
Positions emphasizing manual data handling or basic bioinformatics will be reduced. Increased demand for hybrid biologist-data scientist roles, as artificial intelligence integration becomes standard in academic and private research.
Transition Strategy
Pursue advanced degrees or certifications in computational biology, machine learning, or regulatory affairs. Target leadership or interface roles between biology and artificial intelligence.
7+ Years
Long-term Vision
Job Outlook
Labor market polarization. Roles requiring creative problem-solving, regulatory oversight, field research, or collaboration with artificial intelligence will grow. Routine lab-based positions may sharply decline owing to automation.
Transition Strategy
Diversify skillset with artificial intelligence communication, ethics, and leadership development. Explore roles in science policy, regulatory oversight, and technology transfer. Engage in continuous professional development.
Industry Trends
AI Enhanced Environmental Research
Use of sensors and automated analytics in fieldwork increases need for technical adaptability.
Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in Research
Automation of repetitive laboratory and data analysis tasks, changing job responsibilities.
Emphasis on Regulatory Compliance and Ethics
Demand for professionals navigating new rules governing AI-guided research and biotechnologies.
Expansion of Personalized Medicine
Leveraging artificial intelligence to tailor treatments, increasing demand for bioinformatics expertise.
Greater Emphasis on Science Communication
Need for scientists to effectively communicate findings to diverse audiences and stakeholders.
Growing Public Private Partnerships
Cross-sector collaboration creates roles managing partnerships and translational research.
Growth of Data Driven Biology
Increased need for computational and analytical skills to complement biological expertise.
Open Science and Data Sharing
Push toward transparency and reproducibility, necessitating skills in data curation and management.
Remote and Cloud Based Research
Collaboration and experiment management increasingly virtual, facilitating interdisciplinary teamwork.
Rise of Interdisciplinary Roles
Blending of biology, computer science, and business leads to demand for hybrid professionals.
AI-Resistant Skills
Complex Problem Solving
Experimental Design and Creativity
Science Communication
Alternative Career Paths
Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Ensures compliance with safety and environmental standards in product development.
Relevance: Strong demand for regulatory experts as artificial intelligence and biotechnologies converge; requires scientific knowledge and communication skills.
Environmental Consultant
Advise organizations and governments on soil conservation, environmental remediation, and compliance with environmental regulations.
Relevance: Consulting requires high-level interdisciplinary insight and communication.
Science Policy Analyst
Advises policymakers on scientific advances and their societal impact, especially in emerging AI-biotech intersections.
Relevance: Expertise in both science and policy is increasingly crucial as artificial intelligence shapes regulatory frameworks.
Emerging AI Tools Tracker
Full AI Impact Report
Access the full AI impact report to get detailed insights and recommendations.
Was this helpful?
Help us improve by rating this occupation analysis
Other Roles in: Life Physical and Social Science Category
| 🧫Medical Scientists Except Epidemiologists | MODERATE | 136.6K2.7M |
| 🦺Occupational Health and Safety Specialists | MODERATE | 122.3K2.4M |
| ⚗️Chemists | MODERATE | 83.5K1.7M |
| 🌿Environmental Scientists and Specialists Including Health | MODERATE | 80.7K1.6M |
| 🧬Biological Technicians | MODERATE | 77K1.5M |
| 🔬Life Physical and Social Science Technicians All Other | MODERATE | 72.2K1.4M |
| ❤️Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | MODERATE | 71.7K1.4M |
| 🎓School Psychologists | MODERATE | 62.8K1.3M |
| ⚗️Chemical Technicians | MODERATE | 55.9K1.1M |
| 🏙️Urban and Regional Planners | MODERATE | 42.7K853.8K |
Share This Content
Share this with others who might find it useful.