What Does a Chemist Do?

Chemists can be categorized into two main groups:

1. Bench Chemists: Engaged in hands-on laboratory work, these chemists synthesize molecules, characterize substances, and apply the scientific method to conduct experiments, effectively performing what might seem like magic.
2. Non-Bench Chemists: These professionals spend their time reading, writing, attending meetings, networking, and teaching, often overseeing projects or directing others.

Most chemists oscillate between bench work and non-bench activities throughout their day. Typically, those with Bachelor’s degrees spend more time in the lab under the guidance of more experienced colleagues.

The chemistry profession encompasses a wide range of roles, particularly within the chemical industry. At one end of the spectrum are positions requiring little formal education—often titled technician, operator, or associate scientist—while at the other end are highly educated professionals.

Interestingly, individuals with a high school diploma may possess specialized knowledge that rivals that of tenured professors. I've personally witnessed this dynamic in the workplace. The illustration below depicts this spectrum, which generally applies to all chemists, excluding theoretical chemists, who often align more with physicists.

The Bench vs. Non-Bench Dichotomy

On the Bench:

A typical day for a bench chemist may involve organic synthesis, testing new materials, or conducting analytical tests using various methods. Lab work can range from handling hazardous chemicals to simple tasks like measuring the pH of water. Personal protective equipment is essential, including gloves, safety glasses, and potentially more specialized gear like chemical suits or respirators.

The hazards are real; from operating heavy machinery to exposure to dangerous substances, the potential for accidents is ever-present, making safety a primary concern. The primary goal is to address customer needs or broader societal challenges, whether by creating environmentally friendly polymers or developing life-saving medications. Being a bench chemist allows you to witness groundbreaking discoveries firsthand, contributing to societal advancement, albeit with the understanding that it can be a demanding job.

Off the Bench:

Conversely, a day away from the lab might involve analyzing research papers, patents, or internal documents to strategize future experiments. In the chemical industry, it’s crucial to ensure compliance with patent laws or to explore new patent opportunities. Academics focus on producing original research, so staying updated on current literature is vital.

The job opportunities for off-bench roles typically decrease as one moves away from hands-on lab work. Compensation usually peaks around $200,000 annually for technical fellows, a position attainable after 20 to 30 years in the field. While high-level R&D directors may earn more, these roles are limited in number.

Ultimately, if you are passionate about working directly with chemicals and experimenting, it’s advisable to remain engaged in bench work, despite the lower pay and limited responsibilities that may accompany entry-level positions. My own journey from holding a bachelor’s degree to pursuing a PhD was driven by a desire for greater responsibility and autonomy, although it came with its own set of challenges, including relocation and navigating a competitive job market.

Graduate School Considerations

A critical question is whether to pursue further education, such as a PhD (4–6 years), MBA (1–2 years), or JD (3 years). Doctoral studies often come at the cost of mental well-being, strained relationships, financial difficulties, and entering a highly competitive job market.

While MBAs and JDs share similar challenges, they also present more lateral career options beyond chemistry, along with the burden of student loans. My advice for chemistry graduates considering advanced studies is to strive for excellence; being the best will mitigate concerns about job competition.

In Conclusion

Being a chemist can be rewarding yet challenging, filled with risks and obstacles. Would I choose this path again? Absolutely, though I might consider pairing it with business studies. Many chemists I know have transitioned away from their original roles due to job market difficulties, opting instead to learn coding or related fields.

Feel free to reach out with any questions!

This first video, titled "Chemistry careers - A day in the work life of a chemist," offers a glimpse into the daily experiences of chemists, showcasing both the rewarding and challenging aspects of the profession.

The second video, "Occupational Video - Chemist," provides valuable insights into the role of chemists, highlighting various career paths and what aspiring chemists can expect in their professional journeys.