How do I become a Biochemist?

Clinical biochemistry explores the chemical and molecular processes that occur within humans. A clinical biochemist uses this knowledge to support disease diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. They analyse and interpret laboratory results, offer clinical guidance, and lead the development of diagnostic services across hospitals and primary care settings.

Entry route:

  • Hold a BSc (Hons)/BA (Mod) in a relevant discipline (e.g., Biochemistry, Biomedical Science, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Physiology, Pharmacology, Genetics, Immunology)

Please see the list of recognised qualifications.

Information can also be found on the Association of Clinical Biochemists in Ireland (ACBI) website or by visiting Careers Portal.

male and female working together in a laboratory

Your role with the HSE

A career as a Clinical Biochemist offers a dynamic pathway combining clinical expertise, scientific innovation, quality assurance, and leadership.

Clinical Biochemists, commensurate with training, deliver evidence-based interpretation and advice within clinical teams, they also actively participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to enhance patient outcomes.

As a Clinical Biochemist you have an instrumental role driving service development by introducing and validating new diagnostic technologies to meet current and evolving clinical needs. Through leadership in ISO 15189-aligned quality systems, Clinical Biochemists ensure accuracy, safety, and continual improvement.

Clinical Biochemists provide leadership by teaching, mentoring, and advancing translational research and innovation.

Biochemist Researcher writing down Analysis results

Career Progression

Clinical Pathway:

  • Biochemist
  • Biochemist, Senior

Management Pathway:

  • Biochemist, Principal
  • Consultant Clinical Biochemist

Educational Pathway
There are also opportunities available for education roles across the Health and Social Care Professions.

head of laboratory having a meeting with a female colleague

Further training and development

The HSCP Office is responsible for Leadership, Education and Continuing Professional Development of HSCPs working in the HSE.

ACBI membership, also provides access to European Federation of Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) education and training resources

HSeLand is the HSE portal which offers an array of training & development opportunities delivered either online or in a classroom style setting. Information on Education and Development can be accessed by visiting the HSCP Hub on www.hseland.ie.

Other examples of professional development activities include access to excellent HSE library services, further training and educational opportunities, attendance at conferences, webinars and workshops, engaging in mentoring and supervision, keeping up with the latest information about the profession through specialised newsletters, blogs, and podcasts.

Female Biochemist Wearing Lab Coat And Protective Glasses

Staff benefits and testimonials

Working in a rewarding and challenging career is just one of the many benefits you’ll enjoy as a HSE employee. We offer attractive pay and benefits, professional supervision, career support and development opportunities, friendly colleagues, and an excellent quality of life.

See Pay scales – HSE Staff

Staff Testimonials coming soon. 

To ensure that you are information of all vacancies please register on the HSE Career Hub for weekly job alerts. 

African American Biochemist working with a colleague in a lab