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Chemist

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Chemist Career Details

Chemists study the properties of substances and how they interact and behave under different physical conditions. Their work is valuable in various industries including product manufacture, the disposal of industrial waste, the diagnosis and treatment of illness and disease, in forensic analysis for criminal investigations, and in education and academic research. Chemists may be involved in commercial operations in areas such as patent work, sales and marketing.

Chemists work alongside other scientists and technicians from related fields using sophisticated and sensitive equipment and procedures. They design and conduct experiments, make observations, and then write up the work in reports and scientific papers. Chemists often supervise the work of support staff and carry out other administrative work.

Working Environment

Most chemists work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, with occasional evenings and weekends. Shifts or on-call work are usual if providing a round-the-clock service to the public, as in the NHS.

Chemists work in laboratories, often under sterile conditions. Protective clothing is worn. Some travel may be involved when carrying out fieldwork or attending scientific meetings and conferences.

Chemist Related Skills

To be a chemist, you should:

have scientific skills
have an enquiring mind and be able to think clearly and logically
be good at problem solving, with a methodical, analytical approach to your work
be able to work with and lead a team of professionals
be able to make quick decisions in changing circumstances
have excellent spoken and written communication skills
understand statistics and relevant computer packages.

Chemist Career Opportunities

Chemists work for a wide range of employers including governmental agencies, hospitals, public health laboratories, research institutes, and in industry, patent work, health and safety and forensic science.

Some chemists use their scientific knowledge to work in other areas such as commercial work, education, the media and administration.

Relocation may be necessary for career progression.

Further Career Information

If you would like to know more about a career as an Chemist related facts, statistics, articles and websites.

Career Steps

Not quite sure about a career as a Chemist? Try our step-by-step career guide to reaching your chosen career.

Career Courses

Not quite qualified to be a Chemist? Take a look at Postgraduate Chemist courses, Undergraduate Chemist courses, Adult learning Chemist courses, our course browses or use our search form and find courses which will help you on your chosen career path.

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