How to Become an Analytical Chemist

The job of an analytical chemist is essentially the quantitative measurement, qualitative analysis and practical problem solving of scientific data and samples. Whether your intent is to use your knowledge to help create new medicines, assure food safety, design new scientific instruments or teach eager new chemists to become analytical chemists, you must have a strong background in chemistry and the ability to interpret data.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Complete an undergraduate degree in chemistry and apply for acceptance in a graduate program in analytic chemistry. An entry-level position as an analytical chemist has a minimal education requirement of a bachelor of science in chemistry or a related field, such as materials science, physics or electrical engineering. To become a competitive candidate for a research and development position in analytical chemistry, you must hold a Ph.D. in your specialization.

2. Narrow your focus to a specific area within the field of chemistry. The type of work an analytical chemist does is highly varied, allowing for many avenues of specialization. Since analytical chemists work not only in clinical laboratories and governmental positions, but also in private industries like drug research, you may choose to focus on instrumentation design, environmental science, synthetic organic chemistry or polymer chemistry.

3. Consider taking coursework in advanced computer and statistics classes alongside your chosen area of interest. A strong background in statistical analysis and computing skills is necessary to have as the automation of laboratory work increases. Employers prefer to hire analytical chemists who are able to operate computerized laboratory equipment to prepare and analyze samples, as well as those who are able to use computers for simulation tasks.

4. Work in a laboratory while finishing your advanced degree. Beginning chemists with bachelor's degrees are qualified to work in a variety of functions. You can gain experience by performing analytical testing, working in quality control or otherwise assisting senior-level chemists.

5. Look for research and development jobs in the government or in private industry after completing your master's degree or Ph.D. Online resources, such as Monster.com, often have multiple listings for chemist positions (see Resources below). Other, more specialized websites, such as ScienceJobs.com also provide comprehensive listings of vacant positions (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Chemists who choose to work in environmental or laboratory science need to be aware of the potential hazards associated with the chemicals and pollutants. Obtain information by checking material safety data sheets.

Resources

• Analytical chemistry jobs on monster.com
• Analytical chemistry jobs on ScienceJobs.com

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