I am a biochem Ph.D. I have been a programmer

for few years. Yes, it is much easier to find a job, job is easy too. but the pay is not as good as biotech R&D scientist. Also programmer provide services to other people, it is kind of boring and the it is not an important position in any company. I hated lab work and hated reading papers so programmer job is better for me. I also have more time to take care of my kids as a programmer. However, if you are good at lab/research, then you may want to think twice.