What jobs can I do?
A chemistry qualification opens the door to a wide range of careers options, both in and out of the lab
What do you care most about?
- Changing lives. As a chemist you could be developing new medicines, vaccines and medical devices
- Fixing the future. Chemical scientists are finding ways to cope with the increasing pressures on energy, food, water and other scarce natural resources and to live more sustainably
- Innovating industry. As a chemistry professional you could be developing sustainable products and materials, and improving processes
- Challenging opinions. How about promoting scientific research and lobbying for policy changes.
- Being the catalyst. You could inspire others through teaching chemistry
- Working outside the lab in areas like the law, finance, journalism, the government and teaching
You will be part of an estimated 310,000-strong workforce (2023) and contribute an enormous £83 billion to UK GDP (2019).
For more ideas check out these websites
- Not Just Labcoats - explore career options in science, manufacturing and technology.
- National Careers Service - job information and resources for the UK
- My World of Work - Scotland’s careers information and advice web service
- Careers Wales - the all age careers information and guidance service for Wales
- Smart Futures - science and maths careers in the Republic of Ireland
- Careersportal - careers website in the Republic of Ireland
Did you know:
- Chemical scientists’ median salary is £38,590. That’s £7,500 more than the UK median average for other job postings. (Lightcast data 2023)
- The chemical sciences workforce is projected to grow 30% faster than the overall UK labour market (2022-2032)
- Chemists work on ways to tackle global problems
- Chemists have transferable skills that are required in a wide range of other careers
EXPLORE JOB ROLES
What analytical chemists do
Analytical chemists measure chemicals in substances, from medicines to crops, often to ensure safety
What formulation chemists do
Formulation chemists design, test, develop and manufacture various products, from paints and cosmetics to food. Their work constitutes an essential part of the supply chain
What laboratory technicians do
Technicians are at the forefront of cutting-edge scientific research and provide vital scientific services
What medicinal chemists do
Medicinal chemists design and test new drugs to treat diseases – their work is on the forefront of creating life-saving medicines
What toxicologists do
Find out more about toxicology, including what’s involved, where toxicologists work, and pathways into the profession.