number of scientific research projects involve multiple disciplines, and it is common for chemists and materials scientists to work on teams with other scientists, such as biologists and physicists, computer specialists, and engineers. For example, in pharmaceutical research, chemists may work with biologists to develop new drugs and with engineers to design ways to mass produce them. For more information, see the profiles on biochemists and biophysicists, microbiologists, zoologists and wildlife biologists, physicists and astronomers, computer and information technology occupations, and engineers.
Chemists often specialize in a particular branch of the field. The following are examples of some types of chemists:
Analytical chemists determine the structure, composition, and nature of substances by examining and identifying their various elements or compounds. They also study the relationships and interactions between the parts of compounds and develop new techniques for carrying out their work. Their research has a wide range of applications, including food safety, pharmaceuticals, and pollution control.
Inorganic chemists study the structure, properties, and reactions of molecules that do not contain carbon, such as metals. They work to understand the behavior and the characteristics of inorganic substances. Inorganic chemists figure out how these materials can be modified, separated, or used in products, such as ceramics and superconductors.
Medicinal chemists research and develop chemical compounds that can be used as pharmaceutical drugs. They work on teams with other scientists and engineers to create and test new drug products. They also help develop new and improved manufacturing processes to produce new drugs on a large scale effectively.
Organic chemists study the structure, properties, and reactions of molecules that contain carbon. They also design and make new organic substances that have unique properties and applications. These compounds have, in turn, been used to develop many commercial products, such as pharmaceutical drugs and plastics.
Physical chemists study the fundamental characteristics of how matter behaves on a molecular and atomic level and how chemical reactions occur. Based on their analyses, physical chemists may develop new theories, such as how complex structures are formed. Physical chemists often work closely with materials scientists to research and develop potential uses for new materials.
A growing numbers of chemists work in interdisciplinary fields, such as biochemistry and geochemistry. For more information, see the profiles on biochemists and biophysicists and geoscientists.
Many people with a chemistry background become professors or teachers. For more information, see the profiles on high school teachers and postsecondary teachers.
Work Environment
Chemists must wear protective clothing such as gloves and goggles when handling hazardous chemicals.
Chemists and material scientists held about 90,900 jobs in 2010. The industries employing the largest numbers of chemists in 2010 were the following:
Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences 19%
Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing 18
Testing laboratories 11
Federal government, excluding postal service 8
Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state, local, and private 5
Most materials scientists work in manufacturing and scientific research and development.
Chemists and materials scientists typically work in laboratories and offices where they conduct experiments and analyze their results. In addition to laboratories, materials scientists work with engineers and processing specialists in industrial manufacturing facilities. Some chemists also work in these facilities and are usually responsible for monitoring the environmental conditions at the plant.
Chemists and materials scientists can be exposed to health or safety hazards when handling certain chemicals, but there is little risk if proper procedures are followed.
Work Schedules
Most chemists and materials scientists work full time and regular hours, though longer hours are common.
How to Become a Chemist or Materials Scientist
Most chemists and materials scientists work in laboratories.
Chemists and materials scientists need at least a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field. However, a master’s degree or Ph.D. is needed for many research jobs.
Education
A bachelor’s degree in chemistry or in a related field is needed for entry-level chemist jobs. Although some materials scientists hold a degree in materials science, these scientists commonly have a degree in chemistry, physics, or engineering. Many employers, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry, prefer to hire chemists and materials scientists with a Ph.D and postdoctoral experience to lead basic and applied research.
Many colleges and universities offer degree programs in chemistry. The number of colleges that offer degree programs in materials science is small but gradually increasing. Also, many engineering schools offer degrees in the joint field of materials science and engineering.
Undergraduate chemistry majors are typically required to take courses in analytical, organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry. In addition to chemistry coursework, they also take classes in mathematics, biological sciences, and physics. Computer science courses are essential, because chemists and materials scientists need computer skills to perform modeling and simulation tasks and to operate computerized laboratory equipment.
Experience, either in a college or university laboratory, or through internships, fellowships, or work-study programs in industry, is also useful.
Graduate students studying chemistry commonly specialize in a subfield, such as analytical chemistry or inorganic chemistry, depending on their interests and the kind of work they wish to do. For example, those interested in doing research in the pharmaceutical industry usually develop a strong background in medicinal or organic chemistry.
Important Qualities
Analytical skills. Chemists and materials scientists need to be able to carry out scientific experiments and studies. They must be precise and accurate in their analyses because any errors could invalidate their research.
Critical-thinking skills. Chemists and materials scientists carefully evaluate their own work and the work of others. They must determine if results and conclusions are based on sound science.
Mathematical skills. Chemists and materials scientists regularly use complex mathematical equations and formulas, and they need a broad understanding of mathematics, including calculus, algebra, and statistics.
Problem-solving skills. Chemists and materials scientists research and develop new and improved chemical products, processes, and materials. This work requires a great deal of trial and error on the part of chemists and materials scientists before a unique solution is found.
Speaking skills. Chemists and materials scientists frequently give presentations that describe their findings.
