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A chemical scientist, sometimes called a chemist, studies substances and how they behave under certain conditions to drive improved scientific understanding and applications. Read on to learn more about how to build a career in chemical science, what your job might involve, and what to study or do.
You’ll usually enter this field as a graduate student, completing postgraduate studies that combine research activity and industrial placements.
You might choose to stay in academia and split your time between research and teaching. It’s also possible to move into private industry, non-profit work or roles within the government that could involve different amounts of research activity and other professional responsibilities such as policymaking or environmental monitoring, for example.
A track record of scientific publications and collaboration with other disciplines will help you progress to more senior roles in your chosen field, usually involving more responsibility and management of other scientists or technicians.
You might decide to pursue self-employed work as an experienced chemical scientist, offering consultancy services to different organisations.
Training through experienced colleagues and laboratory managers will form a big part of your professional development, particularly in commercial or industrial settings.
Organisations like the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) offer a range of courses, resources and workshops that will help you broaden your expertise.
Further studying and research activity is common throughout your career, as it’s important to stay informed of new theories and techniques in your area.
Use our Career Matcher to see which industries and roles align best with your interests.
