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Careers in Physical Sciences - Chemistry

For some of these career options, post-graduation work experience will be required. Some careers may require additional qualifications.

Careers Description Areas of Study Profiles
Analytical chemist Careers with a special focus on analytical chemistry, modern instrumentation and analytical applications can be found in industry and research.

  • Chemistry
  • Mathematics
  • Statistics
 
Agrochemicals chemist Involved in the production of agricultural chemicals and also in the analysis of products and raw materials. Working with companies that produce insecticides, fertilisers and a number of other soil additives.
  • Chemistry
  • Environmental science
  • Computer science

 
Biomedical chemist Work includes positions in medical and veterinary research, pathology laboratories and quality control in government bodies and private companies.

  • Chemistry
  • Biochemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Genetics

 
Environmental/Water chemist Concerned with chemistry in the atmospheric, water and soil areas. Most large companies employ environmental chemists and officers.

  • Chemistry
  • Water chemistry
  • Biochemistry
  • Environmental science
Explosives chemist Works in the production of explosives to formulate the explosive materials and carry out quality control. Working predominantly in the mining industry.

  • Chemistry
  • Geology

 
Forensic scientist Employed in government departments in forensic field and laboratory services. Areas include forensic imaging, DNA profiling, chemical analysis of a range of materials including documents, drugs and biological substances. Preparation of reports, presentations, and court appearances to provide scientific evidence.
  • Chemistry
  • Biochemistry
  • Physiology
  • Cell biology
Industrial chemist Process technology of production from development through to the final product, and the development of processes in the manufacture of chemicals.

  • Chemistry
  • Computer science

Industrial management and marketing Management and the commercialisation of science and technology within industry. Positions may involve chemical process management, technology implementation, product marketing and research and design management.
  • Chemistry
  • Mathematics
  • Materials science
Molecular design chemist Chemists in this area have a major role in the design of new drugs to treat a large range of human illnesses and also in designing new polymer materials.

  • Chemistry
  • Molecular biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Biotechnology

 
Polymer chemist/Materials scientist The petrochemical industry employs a considerable number of chemists in polymer and surface chemistry related with plastics, adhesives and paints. In addition, materials chemists find employment in the metal production and fabrication industries.

  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Materials Engineering

Quality control chemist These chemists check the raw materials, intermediates and products in a wide range of industries from foods to plastics.

  • Chemistry Statistics

Research director Plan, manage and co-ordinate research scientists and programs within a research division of a major government organisation and liase with associated departments and bodies.
  • Chemistry
  • Mathematics
  • Environmental science
Science communicator/Journalist Work in government multi-media programs to educate and inspire students regarding new innovations in science and highlight career opportunities. Work in areas where science communication is important for funding and research and where scientific information needs to be made readily accessible to the public.
  • Chemistry
  • Mathematics
  • Biology
  • Physics
  • Journalism
  • Communication

Science teacher Works in the classroom teaching basic physical sciences including chemistry. Educate students practically and theoretically and assist to develop an understanding of science or prepare for further study.

  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Biology