Chemists study various chemical elements and compounds,
their properties and how they work together in our bodies and also the world
around us.
Specialist fields in chemistry include biochemistry, organic
chemistry, inorganic chemistry, nuclear chemistry, physical chemistry, pharmaceutical
chemistry and analytical chemistry.
Important subjects related to chemistry include other
sciences (physics, biology) English, algebra, calculus and computer science.
It helps for chemists to have versatile science knowledge. Good
chemists would usually have;
·
An eye for detail
·
Scientific, numerical and technical skills
·
An enquiring mind
·
Logical approach to solving problems
·
Patience and persistence
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Leadership and team working skills
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The ability to make decisions
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Good spoken and written communication skills
·
IT skills
Those who study chemistry can
find jobs as researchers, laboratory technicians, teachers and other important
roles. You could be;
·
Saving lives through development of new
medicines
·
Analysing the environment and investigating
climate change
·
Protecting health by keeping water supplies
clean
·
Creating new products and controlling quality in
the food industry
·
Finding ways to dispose of industrial waste
safely
·
Inventing new artificial materials
·
Diagnosing and treating illnesses or diseases
·
Analysing forensic evidence in criminal
investigations
·
Teaching, lecturing and academic research
Chemists are in very high demand in all sectors,
particularly in industries such as the production of chemicals and
pharmaceutical products.
Trainee graduate chemists can earn between £16,000 and
£22,000 a year. With experience this can rise to between £25,000 and £35,000 a
year. (figures are a guideline only)
You will usually need a degree in chemistry, applied or
analytical chemistry, biochemistry or a related scientific subject. Many
employers will also want you to have a relevant postgraduate qualification such
as an MSc, MChem, MSci, MPhil, or PhD.
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