Research Chemist

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WHAT YOU DO: A research chemist is a scientist who studies the many of the different properties of organic and man-made substances to learn how they react with each other, then applies this information to develop new and better ways to use them.

EDUCATION: A graduate degree - preferably a Ph.D. - is almost always necessary. While working towards this degree, you'll learn about chemistry, advanced math, and the technology needed for chemical experimentation plus get some research experience.

USEFUL SKILLS: Research skills, computer skills, complex problem-solving skills, creativity, and attention to detail.

HOW TO GET IN: Get involved with research projects run by professors at your school.

CAREER PATH: Spend your time as an undergrad working on research projects to gain some experience doing lab research. Then, while you're working towards your postgrad degrees, find an internship or small job working at a research lab or company and work under a more experienced chemist. After finishing school, you can use your research experience to find work as a research chemist, either at a grant-funded research lab or at a company developing new and improved products.

PAYBACK: Median annual salary: $69,760.

DOWNSIDES: Requires lots of education and experience.

FUTURE OF JOB: The number of jobs is expected to increase 3%-9% in the 2010 decade, which is slower than average, but opportunities for Ph.D. chemists are expected to grow more quickly.

NETWORKING: The American Chemical Society offers information about education, research, and careers:
http://portal.acs.org/portal/acs/corg...

Video produced by students at LACES (Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies) working with Gigniks' career media program.

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