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fasterthanwoo
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How do I become a chemist?
In specialized industries, a degree is often less important than relevant experience and work history. I was hired as a process chemist in a large, new pulp mill with no degree in chemistry or chemical engineering. The #2 guy for the slot was a newly-minted chemical engineer from the University of Maine. The interview with the Technical Director and the chief environmental engineer sealed the deal. By the time I got back home, my wife had already gotten a call telling me where and when to show up for the pre-hire physical.symbolipoint said:A degree is helpful, but experience is far more important, along with the ability to study independently. The only meaning of the "degree" is to help verify that you had certain courses. Courses alone do not give any useful information about what you actually understand nor of what you really know how to do.
To become a chemist, you typically need to have at least a bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related field such as biochemistry or chemical engineering. Some employers may also require a master's or doctoral degree for certain positions.
As a chemist, it is important to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as a solid understanding of mathematics and scientific principles. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and communication skills are also essential for success in this field.
In most cases, a certification or license is not required to work as a chemist. However, some states may require chemists who work in certain industries, such as pharmaceuticals, to obtain a professional license. Additionally, many chemists choose to become certified by professional organizations, such as the American Chemical Society, to demonstrate their expertise and enhance their career prospects.
Chemists can work in a variety of settings, including laboratories, research facilities, manufacturing plants, and academic institutions. The type of work environment may vary depending on the specific industry or job role. For example, a chemist working in a pharmaceutical company may spend most of their time in a laboratory, while a chemist in a government agency may split their time between the lab and an office.
Chemists can find job opportunities in a wide range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental science, food and beverage, and materials science. Some common job titles for chemists include research chemist, quality control chemist, analytical chemist, and process chemist. Many chemists also pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers.