Work Schedules
Most chemists and materials scientists work full time and regular hours, though longer hours are common.
How to Become a Chemist or Materials Scientist
Most chemists and materials scientists work in laboratories.
Chemists and materials scientists need at least a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field. However, a master’s degree or Ph.D. is needed for many research jobs.
Education
A bachelor’s degree in chemistry or in a related field is needed for entry-level chemist jobs. Although some materials scientists hold a degree in materials science, these scientists commonly have a degree in chemistry, physics, or engineering. Many employers, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry, prefer to hire chemists and materials scientists with a Ph.D and postdoctoral experience to lead basic and applied research.
Many colleges and universities offer degree programs in chemistry. The number of colleges that offer degree programs in materials science is small but gradually increasing. Also, many engineering schools offer degrees in the joint field of materials science and engineering.
Undergraduate chemistry majors are typically required to take courses in analytical, organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry. In addition to chemistry coursework, they also take classes in mathematics, biological sciences, and physics. Computer science courses are essential, because chemists and materials scientists need computer skills to perform modeling and simulation tasks and to operate computerized laboratory equipment.
Experience, either in a college or university laboratory, or through internships, fellowships, or work-study programs in industry, is also useful.
Graduate students studying chemistry commonly specialize in a subfield, such as analytical chemistry or inorganic chemistry, depending on their interests and the kind of work they wish to do. For example, those interested in doing research in the pharmaceutical industry usually develop a strong background in medicinal or organic chemistry.
Important Qualities
Analytical skills. Chemists and materials scientists need to be able to carry out scientific experiments and studies. They must be precise and accurate in their analyses because any errors could invalidate their research.
Critical-thinking skills. Chemists and materials scientists carefully evaluate their own work and the work of others. They must determine if results and conclusions are based on sound science.
Mathematical skills. Chemists and materials scientists regularly use complex mathematical equations and formulas, and they need a broad understanding of mathematics, including calculus, algebra, and statistics.
Problem-solving skills. Chemists and materials scientists research and develop new and improved chemical products, processes, and materials. This work requires a great deal of trial and error on the part of chemists and materials scientists before a unique solution is found.
Speaking skills. Chemists and materials scientists frequently give presentations that describe their findings.
Teamwork. Chemists and materials scientists typically work on research teams. They need to be able to work well with others towards a common goal. Many serve in a leadership capacity and need to able to motivate and direct other team members.
Writing skills. Chemists and materials scientists often write memos, reports, and research papers that explain their findings.
Advancement
Chemists typically receive greater responsibility and independence in their work as they gain experience. Greater responsibility is also gained through further education. Ph.D. chemists usually lead research teams and have control over the direction and content of projects.
Some chemists and materials scientists move into managerial positions, often as natural sciences managers. For more information, see the profile on natural sciences managers.
Pay
Chemists and Materials Scientists
Median annual wages, May 2010
Materials Scientists
$84,720
Chemists and Materials Scientists
$69,790
Chemists
$68,320
Total, All Occupations
$33,840
All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.
The median annual wage of chemists was $68,320 in May 2010. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $39,250, and the top 10 percent earned more than $116,130.
Median annual wages in the industries employing the largest numbers of chemists in May 2010 were the following:
Federal government, excluding postal service $100,910
Research and development in the physical,
engineering, and life sciences 77,110
Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing 67,540
Testing laboratories 52,220
Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state,
local, and private 49,430
The median annual wage for materials scientists was $84,720 in May 2010. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $45,810, and the top 10 percent earned more than $130,070.
Most chemists and materials scientists work full time and keep regular hours, though longer hours are not uncommon.
Job Outlook
Chemists and Materials Scientists
Percent change in employment, projected 2010-20
Total, All Occupations
14%
Materials Scientists
10%
Chemists and Materials Scientists
4%
Chemists
4%
All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy.
Employment of chemists and materials scientists is expected to increase by 4 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations.
Employment of chemists is expected to grow by 4 percent, as they will continue to be needed in scientific research and development and to monitor the quality of chemical products and processes.
Employment of materials scientists is expected to grow by 10 percent, owing to demand for cheaper, safer, and better quality materials for a variety of purposes, such as electronics, energy, and transportation.
Declines in employment of chemists is expected at chemical and drug manufacturers. To control costs and minimize risks, many of these companies are expected to partner with research universities and smaller scientific research and development (R&D) and testing services firms to perform work formerly done by in-house chemists. Additionally, companies in these industries are expected to conduct an increasing amount of manufacturing and R&D in other countries, further limiting domestic employment growth.
Environmental