About Chemists
Chemists play a central role in modern science, technology and industry by discovering and developing new compounds and materials ranging from items as ordinary as soap to exotic drugs. Growth areas in chemistry are centered in the life sciences and biotechnology. If you are scientifically inclined and enjoy the hands-on work required by a laboratory science, you'll want to learn more about chemists and careers in chemistry.
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Identification
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Chemists work in research and development, or in the implementation of chemical manufacturing processes. In addition, many chemists teach in colleges and universities. Chemists engaged in basic research use experimental methodology, computer modeling and theoretical analysis to create new substances. Applied research takes basic science and know-how to develop or improve products and manufacturing processes. Many chemists work in manufacturing monitoring production and performing quality control testing.
Types
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Like most professions, chemistry is divided into several specialties. Analytical chemists focus primarily on determining the composition of substances. Organic chemists work with the carbon-based compounds that are the basis for drugs, food and food processing, petrochemicals and many other organic (biological) products. Inorganic chemists are concerned with non-carbon-ased compounds. Physical and material chemists study and develop many of the products we often don't think of as chemicals, such as the metals we use, concrete and glass.
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Education
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Entry-evel jobs require at least a bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related field such as materials science or biochemistry. Hundreds of undergraduate programs are approved by the American Chemical Society. High school students should prepare by taking chemistry, physics, biology and advanced mathematics courses. College coursework includes required courses in analytical, organic, inorganic and physical chemistry as well as physics, mathematics, biology and computer science. Most students do not specialize until they attend graduate school, but those interested in environmental or business-related careers should take appropriate courses in atmospheric, water and soil chemistry, or in business administration and economics.
Employment
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Chemistry is a field in transition. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects fewer jobs in manufacturing, matched by increases in research services firms as companies outsource chemistry-related work. The growth areas are in biotechnology and environmental chemistry. Although entry-level jobs are available to those with bachelor's degrees, competition is intense. A master's is recommended, and preferably a PhD for research and development positions.
Benefits
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A small percentage of chemists makes six-figure salaries; most make tens of thousands less. The highest salaries are typically with the federal government, followed by private sector and university chemists employed in research and development. Career advancement in the private sector can lead to management positions. For researchers, advancement usually is in the form of increased autonomy, professional standing and funding.
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