6 answers
Sandra
Student
Florida, New York
1
Question
Updated
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whAT IS CAREER IN CHEMISTRY AND HOW TO GO ABOUT IT?
WHAT IS A CAREER IN CHEMISTRY AND HOW TO GO ABOUT IT?
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6 answers
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
334
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
This is a terrific question, Sandra, and you already have received excellent advice. I have provided links below to three different perspectives with details on education and skills needed.
From reading these and the other advice, I was struck by the breadth of choice with that major. There are jobs in the academic, government, industry, and non-profit sectors. And they can involve pure chemistry, medicine, environment, engineering, food, law, forensics, health and safety and more.
As for launching your career in chemistry, Jimmy and Boniface addressed education and internships. If there are student organizations focused on chemistry, get involved with them. Or look for other student organizations, such as environment, for which you could use / enhance your knowledge of chemistry. In college, take advantage of career resources to improve your resume, practice interview skills, and participate in on-campus recruiting. Your college may also have programs to connect with alumni for shadowing, mentoring or internships.
Good luck!
American Chemical Society - https://www.acs.org/careers/chemical-sciences.html
Indeed.com - https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/careers-in-chemistry
Research.com - https://research.com/careers/chemistry-careers
From reading these and the other advice, I was struck by the breadth of choice with that major. There are jobs in the academic, government, industry, and non-profit sectors. And they can involve pure chemistry, medicine, environment, engineering, food, law, forensics, health and safety and more.
As for launching your career in chemistry, Jimmy and Boniface addressed education and internships. If there are student organizations focused on chemistry, get involved with them. Or look for other student organizations, such as environment, for which you could use / enhance your knowledge of chemistry. In college, take advantage of career resources to improve your resume, practice interview skills, and participate in on-campus recruiting. Your college may also have programs to connect with alumni for shadowing, mentoring or internships.
Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Jimmy Bellesis
Nutritionist
10
Answers
Napa, California
Updated
Jimmy’s Answer
Hey there, Sandra! It's great to see you showing interest in this field. Chemistry, in essence, is the fascinating study of the substances that make up our world, how they behave, interact, transform, and how we can harness these processes to create new substances. It's a science that touches nearly every aspect of our existence!
Our universe is a grand tapestry woven from the elements found on the periodic table. These elements are omnipresent, constantly interacting and influencing our lives. With a solid understanding of Chemistry, science professionals can find success in virtually any industry.
Why not take a moment to delve into the world of Chemistry? You could start by exploring the periodic table or watching some enlightening Chemistry videos. Bill Nye and Allie Ward are excellent science communicators who can introduce you to a wide range of scientific concepts. Find what sparks your curiosity and follow that thread to learn more!
If you're still in high school, I strongly recommend signing up for additional science classes like Chemistry, Physics, or Biology. If these are available at no cost and fit into your schedule, it's a golden opportunity to broaden your knowledge base.
Don't hesitate to ask questions about the things that pique your interest. Venture down the internet rabbit holes (safely, of course!) to learn more about Chemistry and other scientific fields. There's a vast universe of knowledge waiting for you to discover. Most scientists would agree that in the pursuit of knowledge, you'll often end up carving your own unique path. So, go ahead, Sandra, and let your curiosity lead the way!
Our universe is a grand tapestry woven from the elements found on the periodic table. These elements are omnipresent, constantly interacting and influencing our lives. With a solid understanding of Chemistry, science professionals can find success in virtually any industry.
Why not take a moment to delve into the world of Chemistry? You could start by exploring the periodic table or watching some enlightening Chemistry videos. Bill Nye and Allie Ward are excellent science communicators who can introduce you to a wide range of scientific concepts. Find what sparks your curiosity and follow that thread to learn more!
If you're still in high school, I strongly recommend signing up for additional science classes like Chemistry, Physics, or Biology. If these are available at no cost and fit into your schedule, it's a golden opportunity to broaden your knowledge base.
Don't hesitate to ask questions about the things that pique your interest. Venture down the internet rabbit holes (safely, of course!) to learn more about Chemistry and other scientific fields. There's a vast universe of knowledge waiting for you to discover. Most scientists would agree that in the pursuit of knowledge, you'll often end up carving your own unique path. So, go ahead, Sandra, and let your curiosity lead the way!
Boniface Ndirangu
Medical Representative and Family Oriented Magazine Contributor/ Editor
3
Answers
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
Updated
Boniface’s Answer
8 Steps to Kickstart Your Career in Chemistry
1. Understand What a Career in Chemistry Entails
A career in chemistry revolves around studying matter, its properties, and transformations. Chemists work in industries like pharmaceuticals, materials science, environmental protection, and energy research. From developing new medicines to creating eco-friendly materials, chemists play a crucial role in a wide variety of fields.
2. Get the Right Education
High School Focus – Hone your skills in subjects like math, chemistry, biology, physics, and even English.
Undergraduate Degree – A bachelor's degree in chemistry is the minimum requirement for most positions. Choose a program that offers a solid foundation in areas like organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry.
Graduate Studies – For specialized positions or research roles, consider pursuing a master's or PhD. Fields like biochemistry and materials science are popular choices.
3. Gain Hands-On Experience
Internships & Co-ops – Look for internships or co-op programs during your degree to gain practical experience and insight into different chemistry fields.
Research Projects – Participate in research projects to sharpen your problem-solving skills and apply theoretical knowledge.
4. Focus on Professional Development
Certifications – Consider earning certifications, such as those from the American Chemical Society (ACS), to boost your qualifications.
Networking – Build connections through conferences, workshops, and industry events. Networking is key to discovering job opportunities and gaining mentorship.
5. Explore Diverse Career Paths in Chemistry
Research – Work in academia, government labs, or private research institutions.
Industry – Join industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, chemical manufacturing, or environmental consulting.
Government – Find roles within government agencies dedicated to public health, environmental protection, or national security.
Education – Teach chemistry at various educational levels, from high school to university.
Entrepreneurship – Use your knowledge to start a business or consultancy focused on chemistry-related innovations.
6. Develop Key Skills for Success
To thrive in chemistry, you’ll need:
Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities
Precision and attention to detail
Teamwork and independent work skills
Strong communication skills
In-depth understanding of scientific principles and techniques
7. Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Keep up with cutting-edge advancements by reading scientific journals, attending conferences, and staying involved in the chemistry community.
8. Cultivate Adaptability and Work Ethic
Chemistry is an ever-evolving field, so be ready to adapt to new technologies and methodologies. A strong work ethic, dedication, and a passion for learning are essential for long-term success.
1. Understand What a Career in Chemistry Entails
A career in chemistry revolves around studying matter, its properties, and transformations. Chemists work in industries like pharmaceuticals, materials science, environmental protection, and energy research. From developing new medicines to creating eco-friendly materials, chemists play a crucial role in a wide variety of fields.
2. Get the Right Education
High School Focus – Hone your skills in subjects like math, chemistry, biology, physics, and even English.
Undergraduate Degree – A bachelor's degree in chemistry is the minimum requirement for most positions. Choose a program that offers a solid foundation in areas like organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry.
Graduate Studies – For specialized positions or research roles, consider pursuing a master's or PhD. Fields like biochemistry and materials science are popular choices.
3. Gain Hands-On Experience
Internships & Co-ops – Look for internships or co-op programs during your degree to gain practical experience and insight into different chemistry fields.
Research Projects – Participate in research projects to sharpen your problem-solving skills and apply theoretical knowledge.
4. Focus on Professional Development
Certifications – Consider earning certifications, such as those from the American Chemical Society (ACS), to boost your qualifications.
Networking – Build connections through conferences, workshops, and industry events. Networking is key to discovering job opportunities and gaining mentorship.
5. Explore Diverse Career Paths in Chemistry
Research – Work in academia, government labs, or private research institutions.
Industry – Join industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, chemical manufacturing, or environmental consulting.
Government – Find roles within government agencies dedicated to public health, environmental protection, or national security.
Education – Teach chemistry at various educational levels, from high school to university.
Entrepreneurship – Use your knowledge to start a business or consultancy focused on chemistry-related innovations.
6. Develop Key Skills for Success
To thrive in chemistry, you’ll need:
Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities
Precision and attention to detail
Teamwork and independent work skills
Strong communication skills
In-depth understanding of scientific principles and techniques
7. Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Keep up with cutting-edge advancements by reading scientific journals, attending conferences, and staying involved in the chemistry community.
8. Cultivate Adaptability and Work Ethic
Chemistry is an ever-evolving field, so be ready to adapt to new technologies and methodologies. A strong work ethic, dedication, and a passion for learning are essential for long-term success.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Sandra!
EXPLORING A CHEMISTRY CAREER: WHAT IT ENTAILS AND HOW TO PURSUE IT
Unveiling the Chemistry Career Landscape
A chemistry career is a journey into the exploration of substances, their characteristics, reactions, and transformations. As a chemist, you can find your niche in diverse sectors such as pharmaceuticals, environmental science, materials science, and food safety, among others. The roles you might play range from research and development, quality control, regulatory affairs to education. The flexibility of a chemistry degree opens doors in academia, industry, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
Diverse Careers in the Chemistry Field
Research Scientist: As a research chemist, you'll be at the forefront of new product or process development through conducting experiments. Your work environment will likely be a laboratory, and you can specialize in organic, inorganic, physical, or analytical chemistry.
Pharmaceutical Chemist: In this role, you'll concentrate on the development and testing of drugs, collaborating closely with biologists and medical professionals to develop effective and safe medications that comply with regulations.
Environmental Chemist: As an environmental chemist, you'll investigate the chemical makeup of the environment and the impact of pollutants on ecosystems. Your employers could be government agencies or private companies dedicated to environmental conservation.
Industrial Chemist: Industrial chemists harness their chemical knowledge to enhance manufacturing processes or invent new materials. This role often involves teaming up with engineers and production crews.
Forensic Chemist: If you're a forensic chemist, you'll scrutinize physical evidence from crime scenes using chemical methods to aid in crime resolution.
Chemical Educator: If you're passionate about sharing your chemistry knowledge, teaching at high schools or universities could be your calling.
Steps to Embark on a Chemistry Career
To kickstart a career in chemistry:
Start with a Bachelor’s Degree: Earn a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field from a recognized institution. This usually entails studying general chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, and mastering laboratory techniques.
Ponder Over Advanced Degrees: Many roles demand advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.). Graduate studies offer the chance to specialize in your preferred chemistry areas.
Accrue Laboratory Experience: Hands-on experience is key; pursue internships or research opportunities during your studies to hone practical skills and boost your resume.
Polish Soft Skills: Sharpen your communication skills for presenting research findings and teaming up with others. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are also vital for success in this field.
Engage in Professional Networking: Join professional bodies like the American Chemical Society (ACS) to network with peers, attend conferences, and stay abreast of industry trends.
Stay Updated on Industry Trends: Engage in continuous learning through workshops, seminars, or additional certifications to stay current as technology and methodologies in the chemistry field evolve.
Seek Job Opportunities: Once you've achieved your education and gained experience, start applying for jobs that match your interests—whether it's research positions at universities or roles within private companies or government agencies.
Consider Certification/Licensing if Needed: Some specialized fields might require certification from professional bodies, which can boost your job prospects.
In a nutshell, a chemistry career presents a wealth of opportunities across various sectors, significantly contributing to societal progress through scientific innovation and problem-solving prowess.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Chemical Society (ACS): A premier organization offering resources for chemists, including educational materials on chemistry careers.
National Science Foundation (NSF): Provides insights into STEM careers, including statistics on employment trends in scientific fields.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Offers extensive data on job prospects, salary details, and educational prerequisites for various careers, including those in the chemistry field.
Answer Accuracy Probability: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
EXPLORING A CHEMISTRY CAREER: WHAT IT ENTAILS AND HOW TO PURSUE IT
Unveiling the Chemistry Career Landscape
A chemistry career is a journey into the exploration of substances, their characteristics, reactions, and transformations. As a chemist, you can find your niche in diverse sectors such as pharmaceuticals, environmental science, materials science, and food safety, among others. The roles you might play range from research and development, quality control, regulatory affairs to education. The flexibility of a chemistry degree opens doors in academia, industry, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
Diverse Careers in the Chemistry Field
Research Scientist: As a research chemist, you'll be at the forefront of new product or process development through conducting experiments. Your work environment will likely be a laboratory, and you can specialize in organic, inorganic, physical, or analytical chemistry.
Pharmaceutical Chemist: In this role, you'll concentrate on the development and testing of drugs, collaborating closely with biologists and medical professionals to develop effective and safe medications that comply with regulations.
Environmental Chemist: As an environmental chemist, you'll investigate the chemical makeup of the environment and the impact of pollutants on ecosystems. Your employers could be government agencies or private companies dedicated to environmental conservation.
Industrial Chemist: Industrial chemists harness their chemical knowledge to enhance manufacturing processes or invent new materials. This role often involves teaming up with engineers and production crews.
Forensic Chemist: If you're a forensic chemist, you'll scrutinize physical evidence from crime scenes using chemical methods to aid in crime resolution.
Chemical Educator: If you're passionate about sharing your chemistry knowledge, teaching at high schools or universities could be your calling.
Steps to Embark on a Chemistry Career
To kickstart a career in chemistry:
Start with a Bachelor’s Degree: Earn a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field from a recognized institution. This usually entails studying general chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, and mastering laboratory techniques.
Ponder Over Advanced Degrees: Many roles demand advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.). Graduate studies offer the chance to specialize in your preferred chemistry areas.
Accrue Laboratory Experience: Hands-on experience is key; pursue internships or research opportunities during your studies to hone practical skills and boost your resume.
Polish Soft Skills: Sharpen your communication skills for presenting research findings and teaming up with others. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are also vital for success in this field.
Engage in Professional Networking: Join professional bodies like the American Chemical Society (ACS) to network with peers, attend conferences, and stay abreast of industry trends.
Stay Updated on Industry Trends: Engage in continuous learning through workshops, seminars, or additional certifications to stay current as technology and methodologies in the chemistry field evolve.
Seek Job Opportunities: Once you've achieved your education and gained experience, start applying for jobs that match your interests—whether it's research positions at universities or roles within private companies or government agencies.
Consider Certification/Licensing if Needed: Some specialized fields might require certification from professional bodies, which can boost your job prospects.
In a nutshell, a chemistry career presents a wealth of opportunities across various sectors, significantly contributing to societal progress through scientific innovation and problem-solving prowess.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Chemical Society (ACS): A premier organization offering resources for chemists, including educational materials on chemistry careers.
National Science Foundation (NSF): Provides insights into STEM careers, including statistics on employment trends in scientific fields.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Offers extensive data on job prospects, salary details, and educational prerequisites for various careers, including those in the chemistry field.
Answer Accuracy Probability: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
Chris Eastman
Customer Success
5
Answers
Clifton Park, NY
Updated
Chris’s Answer
The great thing about the field of chemistry is there are so many paths to choose from; whether you want to go in to academia or industry. Chemistry is a critical science of the things we use on a daily basis, including food, consumer packaged goods, phones/computers, etc. Everything we use have a chemical component to it so be open to the opportunity to align to areas of interests.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1816
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question.
Below are my suggestions :
1..There are plenty of careers related careers, eg chemist, forensic, pharmacy, chemistry teacher, etc You can find out more chemistry related jobs online
2. Find out mores on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers.
4. Discuss with the professiors, alumni, college career counselor, etc to seek advice
5. Look for intern opportunities on the career you have interest
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1..There are plenty of careers related careers, eg chemist, forensic, pharmacy, chemistry teacher, etc You can find out more chemistry related jobs online
2. Find out mores on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers.
4. Discuss with the professiors, alumni, college career counselor, etc to seek advice
5. Look for intern opportunities on the career you have interest
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!