biology lab skills resume

Top 20 Laboratory Skills for Resume – How to Highlight with Examples

• Resume Format
• October 31, 2024
• Resume Skills

Laboratory Skills for Resume : In today’s competitive job market, showcasing the right laboratory skills on your resume can set you apart from other candidates. Employers in the scientific and healthcare fields are increasingly looking for individuals who not only possess technical expertise but also demonstrate a strong ability to apply these skills effectively. This article delves into the top 20 laboratory skills that can enhance your resume, providing you with the tools to impress potential employers.

Understanding how to highlight your laboratory skills is crucial for making a lasting impression. By incorporating specific examples and tailoring your resume to reflect your unique experiences, you can clearly communicate your capabilities and value to prospective employers. This guide will walk you through essential skills, offering insights into how to present them in a way that resonates with hiring managers.

From technical proficiency in various laboratory techniques to soft skills like teamwork and communication, mastering the art of resume writing can significantly boost your chances of landing that coveted position. Let’s explore these top laboratory skills and learn how to effectively showcase them.

What are Laboratory Skills

Laboratory skills encompass a range of techniques and practices essential for conducting experiments and research. These skills include proper handling of equipment, accurate measurement, data analysis, and adherence to safety protocols. Mastering laboratory skills enhances scientific inquiry, fosters critical thinking, and ensures reliable results in various scientific disciplines.

Why Laboratory Skills Important

Laboratory skills are essential in various fields, including science, healthcare, and engineering. These skills not only enhance individual competence but also contribute to the overall success of research and development efforts. Here are key reasons why laboratory skills are important:

• Precision and Accuracy : Mastery of laboratory techniques ensures that experiments yield reliable and reproducible results, which are crucial for scientific validity.
• Safety Awareness : Understanding proper laboratory protocols minimizes the risk of accidents and exposure to hazardous materials, protecting both the individual and the environment.
• Problem-Solving Abilities : Laboratory work often involves troubleshooting unexpected issues, fostering critical thinking and adaptability in real-time situations.
• Technical Proficiency : Familiarity with advanced equipment and technology enhances efficiency and effectiveness in conducting experiments, leading to better outcomes.
• Data Analysis Skills : Laboratory skills include the ability to analyze and interpret data accurately, which is vital for drawing meaningful conclusions from experiments.
• Collaboration and Communication : Working in labs often requires teamwork and clear communication, essential for successful project completion and knowledge sharing.
• Career Opportunities : Proficiency in laboratory skills opens doors to various career paths in research, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science, making individuals more competitive in the job market.

In summary, strong laboratory skills are foundational for scientific inquiry, innovation, and professional growth, making them indispensable in today’s knowledge-driven world.

List of 20 Laboratory Skills for Resume

• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)
• Gel Electrophoresis
• Spectrophotometry
• Cell Culture
• Chromatography
• Sample Preparation
• Data Analysis
• Quality Control
• Sterilization Techniques
• ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)
• DNA/RNA Extraction
• Protein Purification
• Laboratory Safety Protocols
• Inventory Management
• Equipment Calibration
• Statistical Analysis
• Report Writing
• Team Collaboration

Top Required Laboratory Skills for Resume

• Microscopy Proficient in using light and electron microscopes for examining specimens. Skilled in preparing slides, adjusting focus, and interpreting microscopic images to identify cellular structures and organisms, ensuring accurate data collection and analysis.
• Pipetting Expert in using micropipettes for precise liquid measurements. Capable of performing serial dilutions and transferring small volumes of liquids with accuracy, minimizing contamination risks and ensuring reproducibility in experimental results.
• Spectrophotometry Experienced in utilizing spectrophotometers to measure light absorbance and transmittance in solutions. Able to analyze concentration levels of substances, contributing to quantitative data collection and supporting research findings.
• Chromatography Skilled in various chromatography techniques, including gas and liquid chromatography. Proficient in sample preparation, method development, and data interpretation, facilitating the separation and analysis of complex mixtures.
• Cell Culture Adept in aseptic techniques for culturing and maintaining cell lines. Experienced in subculturing, cryopreservation, and performing assays, ensuring optimal growth conditions and experimental integrity.
• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) Proficient in designing and executing PCR protocols for DNA amplification. Capable of troubleshooting and optimizing reactions, enabling the detection and analysis of genetic material in various samples.
• Electrophoresis Experienced in gel electrophoresis techniques for separating nucleic acids and proteins. Skilled in preparing gels, loading samples, and interpreting band patterns, aiding in molecular biology research and diagnostics.
• Titration Expert in performing titrations to determine the concentration of solutions. Proficient in using burettes and indicators, ensuring accurate measurements and contributing to quantitative analysis in chemical experiments.
• Data Analysis Skilled in analyzing experimental data using statistical software. Capable of interpreting results, generating graphs, and drawing conclusions, enhancing the clarity and impact of research findings.
• Quality Control Experienced in implementing quality control measures in laboratory settings. Proficient in conducting routine checks, calibrating equipment, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards to maintain data integrity.
• Safety Protocols Knowledgeable in laboratory safety protocols and regulations. Trained in handling hazardous materials, using personal protective equipment, and conducting risk assessments to ensure a safe working environment.
• Sample Preparation Adept in preparing samples for various analyses, including homogenization, filtration, and dilution. Ensures consistency and accuracy in sample handling, enhancing the reliability of experimental outcomes.
• Reagent Preparation Skilled in preparing and standardizing chemical reagents for experiments. Capable of following protocols meticulously to ensure the accuracy and effectiveness of solutions used in research.
• Microbial Techniques Experienced in isolating and culturing microorganisms using aseptic techniques. Proficient in performing antimicrobial susceptibility testing and identifying microbial species, contributing to microbiological research.
• Instrumentation Familiar with operating and maintaining various laboratory instruments, including centrifuges, incubators, and autoclaves. Ensures proper functioning and calibration, supporting efficient laboratory operations.
• Research Documentation Proficient in documenting experimental procedures, results, and observations in laboratory notebooks. Ensures clarity and accuracy in records, facilitating reproducibility and compliance with research standards.
• Team Collaboration Skilled in working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams. Effective communicator, contributing to project discussions and sharing insights to achieve common research goals and objectives.
• Experimental Design Experienced in designing and planning experiments to test hypotheses. Capable of selecting appropriate methodologies and controls, ensuring robust and valid experimental outcomes.
• Biostatistics Knowledgeable in applying biostatistical methods to analyze biological data. Skilled in hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and interpreting statistical significance, enhancing the rigor of research conclusions.
• Field Sampling Adept in collecting field samples for environmental and biological studies. Experienced in using proper techniques and equipment to ensure sample integrity, contributing to accurate data analysis and research findings.

How to Highlight Laboratory Skills on Resume

Highlighting your Laboratory Skills on a resume is crucial for standing out in the competitive field of science and research. Effective presentation of these skills can demonstrate your technical expertise and enhance your appeal to potential employers. Here are key strategies to showcase your Laboratory Skills:

• Create a Dedicated Skills Section : List your Laboratory Skills in a separate section to ensure they catch the hiring manager’s attention. Include both technical and soft skills relevant to the laboratory environment.
• Use Specific Terminology : Incorporate industry-specific language that reflects your Laboratory Skills. Terms like “PCR techniques,” “spectrophotometry,” or “cell culture” can resonate with employers looking for specific expertise.
• Quantify Your Experience : Whenever possible, quantify your Laboratory Skills with metrics. For example, mention the number of experiments conducted, samples processed, or projects completed successfully.
• Highlight Relevant Certifications : Include any certifications or training related to your Laboratory Skills. This could be certifications in Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or specific techniques that enhance your credibility.
• Integrate Skills into Work Experience : Instead of listing Laboratory Skills in isolation, weave them into your job descriptions. Describe how you applied these skills in previous roles, emphasizing outcomes and achievements.
• Showcase Problem-Solving Abilities : Employers value candidates who can troubleshoot and resolve issues. Highlight instances where your Laboratory Skills led to innovative solutions or improvements in processes.
• Tailor Your Resume for Each Application : Customize your resume to align with the specific Laboratory Skills mentioned in the job description. This targeted approach increases your chances of getting noticed.

By effectively showcasing your Laboratory Skills, you can create a compelling resume that captures the attention of hiring managers and sets you apart from other candidates.

Sample Laboratory Skills for Resume

[your name].

[Your Address] [City, State, Zip] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [LinkedIn Profile URL]

Detail-oriented laboratory technician with over [X years] of experience in [specific field, e.g., clinical, research, or industrial laboratories]. Proficient in a variety of laboratory techniques and equipment, seeking to leverage expertise in [specific area] to contribute to [Company Name]’s success.

Bachelor of Science in [Your Major] [University Name], [City, State] [Month, Year] – [Month, Year]

Certifications

• [Certification Name], [Issuing Organization], [Year]

Laboratory Skills

• Analytical Techniques : Proficient in chromatography (HPLC, GC), spectrophotometry, and titration methods.
• Microbiological Techniques : Experienced in aseptic techniques, culture preparation, and microbial identification.
• Molecular Biology : Skilled in PCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing.
• Quality Control : Familiar with GLP/GMP standards, quality assurance protocols, and laboratory safety procedures.
• Equipment Operation : Competent in the use of centrifuges, incubators, autoclaves, and pipetting systems.
• Data Analysis : Proficient in statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R) and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

Professional Experience

Laboratory Technician [Company Name], [City, State] [Month, Year] – Present

• Conducted experiments and analyzed results to support research projects in [specific area].
• Maintained laboratory equipment and ensured compliance with safety regulations.
• Collaborated with team members to develop new protocols and improve existing processes.

Research Assistant [University Name], [City, State] [Month, Year] – [Month, Year]

• Assisted in conducting experiments related to [specific research project].
• Prepared samples and performed data collection and analysis.
• Documented findings and contributed to research publications.

Additional Skills

• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Adaptable and quick learner with a keen attention to detail.

Available upon request.

How to Develop Laboratory Skills for Resume

Developing laboratory skills is essential for anyone looking to enhance their resume in the scientific field. These skills not only demonstrate technical proficiency but also showcase your ability to work effectively in a lab environment. Here are some effective ways to develop laboratory skills:

• Participate in Workshops : Attend hands-on workshops that focus on specific laboratory techniques to gain practical experience.
• Engage in Internships : Seek internships in research labs or clinical settings to apply theoretical knowledge and develop laboratory skills in real-world scenarios.
• Take Relevant Courses : Enroll in courses that cover essential laboratory practices, safety protocols, and equipment handling.
• Practice with Simulations : Utilize online simulations or virtual labs to practice techniques and familiarize yourself with lab equipment.
• Join Study Groups : Collaborate with peers to share knowledge and practice skills together, enhancing your learning experience.
• Document Your Experience : Keep a detailed record of your lab work, techniques learned, and projects completed to showcase your developed laboratory skills on your resume.
• Seek Feedback : Regularly ask for feedback from mentors or supervisors to identify areas for improvement and further develop laboratory skills.

By actively pursuing these strategies, you can effectively develop laboratory skills that will make your resume stand out to potential employers.

Also Read : How to Add Skills Section in Resume

FAQs about Laboratory Skills

What are essential laboratory skills to include on a resume.

Essential laboratory skills to include on a resume are proficiency in laboratory techniques such as pipetting, titration, and microscopy. Additionally, skills in data analysis, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols are crucial. Highlighting experience with specific instruments or software can also enhance your appeal to potential employers.

How can I demonstrate my Laboratory Skills on my resume?

To effectively demonstrate your laboratory skills on your resume, include specific examples of your experience. Mention relevant coursework, internships, or projects where you applied these skills. Use quantifiable achievements, such as improved efficiency or successful experiments, to showcase your capabilities and impact in a laboratory setting.

Why are Laboratory Skills important for job applications?

Laboratory skills are vital for job applications in scientific fields as they demonstrate your technical expertise and ability to conduct experiments accurately. Employers seek candidates who can contribute to research and development, ensuring safety and compliance. Highlighting these skills can set you apart from other applicants and increase your chances of landing an interview.

How do I tailor my Laboratory Skills for different job roles?

Tailoring your laboratory skills for different job roles involves researching the specific requirements of each position. Focus on relevant skills that align with the job description, such as analytical techniques for research roles or quality control skills for manufacturing positions. Customize your resume to emphasize the most pertinent skills for each application.

Can I include soft skills related to Laboratory Skills on my resume?

Absolutely! Including soft skills related to laboratory skills on your resume can enhance your profile. Skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail are crucial in a lab environment. Highlighting these attributes alongside your technical skills demonstrates your ability to collaborate effectively and contribute positively to a team.

Resume Tips

Choose the right format.

Select a resume format that best showcases your skills and experience. Common formats include chronological, functional, and combination resumes.

Tailor Your Resume

Customize your resume for each job application by highlighting relevant skills and experiences that match the job description.

Focus on Key Sections

Include essential sections such as contact information, professional summary or objective, work experience, education, skills, and relevant certifications.

Use Clear and Concise Language

Be concise and use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities in each job role.

Quantify Achievements

Whenever possible, quantify your achievements with numbers or percentages to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.

Highlight Transferable Skills

Emphasize transferable skills that are relevant to the job you're applying for, such as communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

Prioritize Readability

Ensure your resume is easy to read by using a clean and professional font, adequate white space, and bullet points for listing information.

Proofread Carefully

Avoid spelling and grammar errors by proofreading your resume multiple times or asking a trusted friend or colleague to review it.

Keep it Updated

Regularly update your resume with new experiences, skills, and accomplishments to reflect your most current qualifications.

Seek Feedback

Consider seeking feedback from career advisors, mentors, or professionals in your industry to improve your resume further.

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Lab Skills on Resume: Showcasing Your Laboratory Expertise

Laboratory skills are vital for individuals seeking employment in scientific and technical fields. They demonstrate your ability to handle complex experiments, analyze data, and maintain quality control.

In this article, we will explore the importance of lab skills on a resume and provide guidance on how to effectively showcase them to increase your chances of landing your dream job.

Table of Contents

Importance of Laboratory Skills on a Resume

Employers value candidates with strong lab skills as it signifies their ability to perform experiments accurately, interpret results, and follow safety protocols. Including laboratory skills on your resume showcases your practical knowledge, attention to detail, and ability to work in a scientific environment.

These skills are highly sought after in industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, chemistry, and healthcare. Lab skills play a pivotal role in scientific endeavors. Here are some key reasons why they hold immense importance:

• Accurate and Reliable Results: Proficient lab skills ensure precision and minimize errors in data collection and analysis, leading to reliable research outcomes.
• Safety and Risk Mitigation: Competent skills help in adhering to safety protocols, minimizing accidents, and protecting both the individuals and the surrounding environment from potential harm.
• Effective Documentation: Skillful documentation and record-keeping practices ensure traceability and reproducibility of experiments, facilitating collaboration and future references.
• Equipment Efficiency: Proper handling and maintenance of laboratory equipment enhance their longevity and accuracy, reducing downtime and resource wastage.
• Data Analysis and Interpretation: Proficiency in data analysis techniques allows researchers to draw meaningful insights and conclusions from their experiments, driving scientific progress.

Key Lab Skills to Include on Resume

When listing laboratory skills on your resume, it is crucial to be specific and provide evidence of your proficiency. Here are some key skills to consider including:

Accuracy and Precision

The ability to perform experiments with accuracy and precision is fundamental to obtaining reliable and reproducible results. Accurate measurements, proper sample handling, and precise pipetting techniques are crucial aspects of this skill.

Safety Protocols

Maintaining a safe working environment is of utmost importance in laboratories. Competence in following safety protocols, handling hazardous materials, and utilizing personal protective equipment (PPE) ensures the well-being of individuals and prevents accidents.

Documentation and Record-Keeping

Thorough documentation and record-keeping are vital for scientific research. Effective note-taking, maintaining detailed lab notebooks, and recording experimental parameters enable transparency, reproducibility, and the sharing of findings with colleagues.

Equipment Handling and Maintenance

Proper handling, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory equipment are essential for accurate and consistent results. Understanding equipment functionalities, troubleshooting common issues, and scheduling regular maintenance contribute to their efficient use.

Highlight your experience with scientific instruments such as spectrophotometers, chromatography systems, PCR machines , and mass spectrometers.

Data Analysis and Interpretation

Analyzing and interpreting experimental data requires proficiency in statistical methods, data visualization tools, and software packages. The ability to derive meaningful conclusions and present findings in a clear and concise manner is crucial for effective communication.

Experimental Design and Execution

Demonstrating your ability to plan and conduct experiments, ensuring accurate data collection and analysis.

Laboratory Techniques

Including expertise in various techniques such as pipetting, centrifugation, titration, microscopy, and gel electrophoresis.

Quality Control and Assurance

Demonstrating your understanding of quality control procedures, including documentation, calibration, and adherence to standard operating protocols.

Industries that Require Laboratory Skills

Laboratory skills are highly valued in various industries where scientific research, analysis, and experimentation are essential. Here are some industries that require these skills:

Pharmaceuticals. The pharmaceutical industry relies heavily on laboratory skills for drug discovery, formulation, testing, and quality control.

Biotechnology. Laboratories focused on developing vaccines, gene therapies, and biofuels require skilled professionals with expertise in molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetic manipulation.

Healthcare . In the healthcare industry, laboratory skills are essential for medical diagnostics, clinical research, and pathology.

Chemical and Petrochemical. Chemists and chemical engineers use lab techniques to analyze raw materials, monitor reactions, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Environmental Science. Environmental science and consulting firms conduct testing to assess water quality, air pollution, soil contamination, and environmental impacts.

Food and Beverage. Laboratories conduct microbiological and chemical analysis of food and beverage samples to ensure compliance with regulations and maintain product quality.

Research and Development. Lab skills are fundamental in research and development across various industries. This includes academic research institutions, government research laboratories, and private research organizations.

Forensics. Forensic laboratories utilize these skills for the analysis of crime scene evidence, DNA testing, toxicology analysis, and ballistics. Forensic scientists employ advanced specialists to provide crucial evidence in legal investigations and court proceedings.

Materials Science. Labs conduct physical and chemical analyses, test mechanical properties, and evaluate material performance in different environments.

Quality Control and Assurance. Specialists perform tests to ensure that products meet specific standards and specifications, employing techniques such as product testing, calibration, and inspection.

Resume Example with Lab Skills

John Smith 123 Main Street Anytown, USA 12345 Phone: (555) 123-4567 Email: [email protected] Objective Highly motivated and detail-oriented laboratory professional with a strong background in biochemistry seeking a challenging position in a pharmaceutical research and development setting. Committed to conducting accurate experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to scientific advancements. Education Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, XYZ University, Anytown, USA (Year) Skills – Experimental Design and Execution – Laboratory Techniques: Pipetting, Gel Electrophoresis, Spectrophotometry – Molecular Biology: DNA Extraction, PCR, Western Blotting – Analytical Chemistry: HPLC, GC-MS, FTIR – Data Analysis: Excel, GraphPad Prism – Quality Control and Assurance: Documentation, SOPs – Research Methodology: Literature Review, Experimental Protocols – Safety Protocols: Chemical Handling, Biosafety, Hazardous Waste Disposal Work Experience Research Assistant, ABC Pharmaceuticals, Anytown, USA (Year – Year) – Executed experiments following established protocols, including protein expression, purification, and characterization. – Conducted assays and analyzed results using spectroscopy and chromatography techniques. – Contributed to the development of a novel drug delivery system, collaborating with a cross-functional team. – Maintained accurate laboratory records, documented experimental procedures, and prepared reports. Laboratory Technician Intern, DEF Research Institute, Anytown, USA (Year – Year) – Assisted in various research projects, including cell culture maintenance and sample preparation. – Conducted routine laboratory tests, such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and Western blotting. – Compiled and analyzed data, generating reports and assisting in data interpretation. – Ensured compliance with safety regulations and proper handling of hazardous materials. Certifications Certified Biochemistry Laboratory Technician (CBLT) Biosafety and Chemical Hygiene Training Publications Smith, J., et al. (Year). “Characterization of Protein X: Insights into its Function and Interaction Partners.” Journal of Biochemistry, vol. XX, no. X, pp. XXX-XXX. Professional Affiliations American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening (SLAS) References Available upon request

Highlighting Lab Skills in Different Sections of a Resume

To effectively showcase your lab skills, strategically incorporate them into different sections of your resume. Here’s how:

• Summary or Objective Statement. Begin your resume with a strong summary or objective statement that highlights your expertise and career goals.
• Skills Section. Create a dedicated section to list your laboratory skills, using bullet points to emphasize each skill and its relevance to the position you’re applying for.
• Work Experience. When describing your previous roles, mention specific skills utilized and highlight achievements or projects where these skills played a significant role.
• Education and Certifications. Include relevant coursework, research projects, internships, or certifications that demonstrate your proficiency in specific laboratory techniques.

Enhancing Laboratory Skills

Continuously improving your skills is essential in staying competitive. Here are some ways to enhance your skills:

• Attend workshops, seminars, or online courses to learn about the latest techniques and advancements in your field.
• Engage in independent research or collaborate with professionals in your industry to gain hands-on experience and expand your skill set.
• Join industry-related organizations or societies to network with peers, attend conferences, and stay updated on industry trends.

Employers value candidates who show a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Here’s how you can demonstrate this on your resume:

Enrolled in an advanced bioinformatics course to expand knowledge of computational analysis techniques and their application in genomic research.

Networking and Utilizing Lab Skills

Networking is a valuable tool for leveraging your laboratory skills and exploring new opportunities. Attend industry conferences, connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, and actively participate in scientific communities to expand your network.

Lab skills are indispensable for individuals aspiring to work in scientific and technical fields. By effectively showcasing your expertise on your resume, you can significantly enhance your chances of securing employment.

Remember to tailor your resume to the exact job requirements, provide specific examples of your skills, and demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Are laboratory skills only relevant in scientific research positions?

Laboratory skills are highly valuable in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, healthcare, biotechnology, environmental science, and quality control. These skills can be applied in a wide range of positions beyond scientific research.

Can I include lab skills if I have limited work experience?

Yes, if you have limited work experience, focus on showcasing your skills through relevant coursework, research projects, internships, or certifications. Highlight your practical knowledge and eagerness to learn.

Should I include basic laboratory skills on my resume?

It’s important to include both basic and advanced laboratory skills on your resume. Even if some skills seem basic, they demonstrate your foundational knowledge and ability to perform essential tasks.

How can I stay updated with the latest lab techniques?

Stay informed by reading scientific journals, attending conferences, participating in webinars, and joining professional associations. Online platforms and industry-specific websites also provide valuable resources for staying up-to-date.

Is it necessary to customize my resume for each job application? Yes, customizing your resume for each job application allows you to highlight the most relevant laboratory skills and experiences that align with the specific requirements of the position.

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5 Biology Resume Examples [& Templates]

Biology Resume

• Biologist Resumes by Experience
• Biologist Resumes by Role
• Write Your Biology Resume

Whether working to improve medical practices and technology or looking for innovative new ways to protect local ecosystems, your fine-tuned biology skills serve you well. You handle environmental studies, research, samples, and data—often down to the cellular level!

But which resume template will allow you to show off such specialized and precise skills in a solid resume? What do recruiters need to see to get a solid idea of what you can accomplish?

Don’t worry: We’ve spent years helping people in biology, medicine, and many other scientific fields. Try our five biology resume examples and free online cover letter writer for inspiration on how to lay out your own qualifications.

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

•  Is the company looking for a background in microarray or research on the microbiome? Then, use your space to record similar experiences from your career.

Biology Major Resume

• Use the career objective to demonstrate a clear understanding of the prospective employer’s needs and how your background in biology projects can still apply to handling projects and improving the end-user experience in this role.

Biology No Experience Resume

• Highlight and quantify how your skills in things like electron microscopy and molecular dynamics simulations along with your growing knowledge were instrumental in previous team research projects.

Marine Biologist Resume

• Take a cue from how Amanda shows off her major (marine biology and ecology). Now, that’s how you make your marine biologist resume sparkle with brilliance. It’s your way of assuring the recruiters that you’ve got the knowledge and skills to be methodical and accurate in the laboratory or field.

Molecular Biologist Resume

• At the foundation of this strategy? Read the job ad carefully (and reread it because all you’ve got is time) to fish out those relevant keywords tied to your experience, qualifications, and skills.

Related resume examples

• Lab Technician
• Phlebotomist

Adjust Your Biology Resume for the Job Description

Each job in biology is different, so you’ll want to show the reader that you want that position. Tailor your skills , passions, and experiences to align with the specific job description you’re applying to. Don’t start talking medicine if you’re applying for an ecosystem-focused job at a National Park!

Your main goal is to use your biology resume to exhibit skills you have that the employer highlights in their job ad. Do they emphasize sample studies, which you have a knack for? Do they value an eye for detail like yours?

Here are some biology skill ideas:

15 popular biology skills

• Electron Microscopy
• Data Management
• Conservation Plans
• Apoptosis Detection
• Confocal Microscopy
• Cell Sorting
• Biodiversity Mapping
• Sample Tracking
• DNA Microarray
• R/Bioconductor
• ImageJ/Fiji
• Research Planning
• Data Presentation
• Confocal Microscope

Your biology work experience bullet points

While you always want to keep the job description handy for reference during your resume-building process, you don’t want just to repeat it! Leverage success stories and accomplishments that show you’re aligned with the job instead of just saying so.

Don’t forget to use active verbs and language, too, to show that you really want the job and can bring the energy it takes to get things done.

You also need metrics. Quantifiable data shows that you can create measurably successful results. Including metrics also demonstrates a methodical, precise approach that aligns with a biologist’s work environment.

• Reduced error rates show your precision on the job
• Reduced work hours demonstrate efficiency, both individually and in a team setting
• Personal ratings lend credibility to your communication skills and good performance
• Percentages can show how you’ve improved ups and downs in environmental factors

See what we’re talking about?

• Collaborated with environmental scientists to integrate research findings into conservation planning efforts, contributing to revised regulations that led to a 38% decrease in water pollution levels
• Utilized Systems Biology Software to analyze and interpret complex data sets, enhancing data visualization for team members and reducing the team’s work hours by an average of 9 per week
• Coordinated with sales team to understand infographics and displays to promote ongoing sales with a detailed eye, leading to a 14% revenue increase
• Investigated microbial contamination issues in manufacturing processes, utilizing DNA Microarray technology to identify contaminating species with 98% accuracy and earning a personal rating of 4.9/5 stars
• Participated in the development of protocols for testing medical equipment using LabWare LIMS, which resulted in a 21% reduction in testing time per device

9 active verbs to start your biology work experience bullet points

• Collaborated
• Investivated
• Coordinated
• Participated

3 Tips for Writing a Biology Resume Without Much Experience

• A resume objective can be your secret ingredient if you’ve recently joined the field of biology. Since you don’t have as much work experience as some other candidates, briefly state why you want the job and how you’re qualified for it. Toss in a few skills like “Electron Microscopy and “Cell Sorting” while reaching out to the company.
• If you completed any relevant biology, medical, or other scientific internships that connect with your dream job, feel free to include these in your resume! They’re still experiences that helped you build qualifying skills to advance your career as a biologist.
• What was that super-high GPA again? Did you make the Dean’s List or earn any certificates for your outstanding performance while earning that Bachelors in Biology? Just like with your internships, these little tidbits count if they relate to your field!

3 Tips for Writing a Biology Resume if You’ve Got Some Experience By Now

• Now that you’ve gone through several job roles that utilized your biology prowess, you can afford to hand-pick the best experiences to present. Stick with only the most relevant and impressive jobs you’ve had! (And use only the best experience points from each one.)
• Reverse-chronological formatting is your new best friend. Arrange your job history to display increasingly complex and eye-catching achievements as it approaches the present day. There’s no better way to demonstrate your determination to advance your career!
• You don’t need to include high school education or older degrees on your resume by now. Only put down your most advanced degree. You can include external courses or certifications, though, such as an OSHA Lab Safety Certificate.

Revisit that job description and swing by the company’s website to get an idea of what their company culture and work environment are like. Do they inject any bits of humor into the job ad? Are they earnest about their mission to overcome an invasive species problem? Match whatever tone they use.

Your skills will depend, once again, on what the job requirements say. Do they emphasize microscopic-level analysis? Are they particularly concerned with data quality and management? Find “categories” of skills they need, and give super-specific examples of your own matching abilities.

Just as you arrange field data in a way that other members of your biology team will be able to analyze efficiently, you’ll want to pick a resume template that makes your qualifications look organized and tidy. Also, place your most impressive points in the spotlight, whether those are your skills or experiences.

Stephen is the co-founder and CEO of BeamJobs. He started his career in data fulfilling the dream of little kids everywhere: working for an insurance company. He then moved on to work in edtech for a company called Chegg before venturing out to start BeamJobs. Things have come a long way after countless “learnings” (fancy word for mistakes), and BeamJobs has now helped 2.5M+ people create their perfect resume. Stephen and BeamJobs have been featured on awesome sites like Business Insider, Chicago Tribune, Dallas News, Baltimore Sun, the Daily Press, Zendesk, HubSpot , and loads more.