Chemist

What you do

Runs experiments to analyze or synthesize compounds, develops or tests new materials and formulations, and ensures products meet quality and safety standards. Works across industries including pharmaceuticals, materials, food, and petrochemicals, moving between pure research and applied process or quality roles.

Typical work environment

A laboratory, often within an industrial R&D or quality control department, sometimes combined with pilot-plant or production floor work for process-focused roles.

Typical entry point

Junior chemist or lab analyst in an industrial R&D, quality control, or research lab

Relevant subjects

Relevant interests

Useful skills

These are useful, relevant skills to build over time — not a checklist you need to already have.

Common education routes

These are common routes in, not the only path — and not a university or course recommendation.