Chemist

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

University

You can study for a degree to become a chemist.

Degree subjects include:

• chemistry
• applied or analytical chemistry
• medicinal chemistry
• biochemistry

As well as a degree, many employers will also want you to have a relevant postgraduate qualification.

Some universities offer an extended degree which leads directly to a postgraduate qualification like an MChem or MSci. These courses have more independent research and can lead into a job or further postgraduate study.

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including chemistry
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You can apply for a Higher or Degree Apprenticeship to get into this role, for example:

• Level 5 Technician Scientist
• Level 6 Laboratory Scientist
• Level 7 Research Scientist

These apprenticeships can take between 3 and 5 years to complete.

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

Work

You could start your career as a laboratory technician, then do further training on the job to qualify as a chemist.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• maths knowledge
• science skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• complex problem-solving skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• analytical thinking skills
• the ability to work well with others
• thinking and reasoning skills
• excellent written communication skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• the ability to read English
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• customer service skills
• the ability to work well with your hands
• concentration skills

What you'll do:

Chemists investigate the chemical make up of substances and work out how they behave under different conditions.

Your tasks will depend on the sector you work in.

As a chemist, you could:

• research and develop new medicines and products
• investigate environmental issues
• diagnose and treat illness and disease
• analyse forensic evidence
• teach, lecture or carry out academic research
• supervise the work of other team members, such as laboratory technicians

Location : You could work at a research facility or in a laboratory.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £26,000
Experienced : £40,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 42 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends occasionally

Career Path:

You'll find opportunities with a wide range of employers including:

• the NHS
• public health laboratories
• research institutes
• government agencies
• commercial industries

You could be involved in research and development, patent work, health and safety or forensic science. You could also move into teaching, lecturing, or science writing and communication.

As an experienced chemist you could work towards chartered status like Chartered Chemist (CChem) and Chartered Scientist (CSci).