Chemist Career Description
Chemists are involved in creating new compounds (molecules) for usage against diseases in humans, animals and plants, as well as new materials for usage in the new technologies like computers, or clothes for the astronauts, or their spaceships with advanced instruments. Chemists will also be involved in the analyses (determination of purity) of compounds for example in the food industries, mining, plastics, paint and pharmaceutical industries. Good managers in the production industries will often have a chemical degree or diploma, in combination with managerial courses.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Chemists work in laboratories where they are involved in, either synthesis (making new compounds) or analyses, analysing compounds (pharmaceuticals, plastics, minerals) coming from the factory, mine or water-system. For the analyses, they receive additional training at their place of employment, to understand and use the specific instrument(s) very well.
A chemist interested in becoming a manager will do additional business management courses. Chemists can also specialise in the following fields:
» Organic chemistry: Organic chemists study the reactions of carbon compounds and the production of new compounds.
» Inorganic chemistry: Inorganic chemists study the reactions of compounds not formed by carbon.
» Physical chemistry: Physical chemists investigate the fundamental aspects of chemical reactions.
Analytical chemistry: Analytical chemists determine which substances are present in a sample and in what quantities. They also develop new methods of analysis.
» Theoretical chemistry: Theoretical chemists attempt to refine existing theories and develop new theories.
» Biochemistry: Biochemists study the chemical reactions in living materials.
Industrial chemistry: Industrial chemists apply their chemical knowledge to the manufacturing of essential products in everyday life.
» Chemical education: Many chemists work as teachers and lecturers in primary, secondary and tertiary educational institutions.
Chemical technologists and technicians assist chemists in all the above-mentioned fields. Chemists are involved in a wide range of activities. Their work includes research and the development of new products and processes.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Chemists must be interested in the development of new products and/ or technologies. They do constant reading to update their knowledge with new developments. Chemists who want to become managers, must enjoy the challenge to work with, and lead groups of people, so that they participate in new developments.
Where can I work?
Chemists are employed by training institutions such as universities, colleges of education and schools.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Yes, chemists and chemical technologists and technicians can have their own business as chemical consultants.
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