Chemistry
© Archana Khambekar
Chemistry is a branch of science that has enhanced every aspect of our lives. Cutting-edge pharmaceuticals contribute to our physical well-being; synthetic fibers dress us in style; frozen foods serve up a convenience; and the automobiles we drive are safer, lighter and energy efficient. These applications utilize our knowledge of the composition, properties, and transformations of matter - that is what chemistry is about.
Chemical research has resulted not only in the discovery of new or improved products, but also in the creation of entirely new industries. This makes it a dynamic field to be in where you can chart a career in various areas of chemical technology. An overview of the role of chemists in the industry segment as well as other spheres is given below to illustrate the possibilities:
- Industry: A range of industries: food, petroleum, paper, electrical equipment, metals, chemical, and pharmaceuticals employ chemists. In this sector they are primarily engaged in research and development, production, and quality assurance. For instance, in the food and beverage industry they formulate products, research additives, and conduct quality control. Similarly in pharmaceutical companies chemists are engaged in all operations from synthesis to testing the quality of products, plus in improving the efficiency of pharmaceutical processes. Apart from these functional areas they may work in marketing or provide technical sales service.
- Analytical laboratories: These labs serve companies, universities, hospitals, institutes, and other clients who wish to have samples analyzed chemically. In this setting chemists carry out the analytical procedures, which often involves operation of sophisticated instruments. They are also responsible for maintenance of the instrumentation.
- Government: Various government agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration, Environmental Protection Agency and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, employ chemists as technicians, or research scientists. For instance, they work in forensics to analyze evidence in criminal investigations; or quantify chemical contaminants in air, water and soil to monitor our environment; or review products and processes that the government regulates.
- Academia: Chemists with an advanced degree in the discipline hold faculty positions with universities. They take on teaching responsibilities as well as undertake research projects funded by government or private industry. Some teach chemical sciences at the school level.
- Research Institutes: In this setting chemists conduct basic research as well as develop new processes or improve existing ones. The research serves academic, industrial, governmental, and philanthropic interests.
The copyright of the article Chemistry in Career Development is owned by Archana Khambekar. Permission to republish Chemistry in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
