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Between 2006 and 2009, 0.1% of working doctoral graduates or 10 doctoral graduates in total are known to have been working as analytical chemists six months after graduation.

Job description

Doctoral level analytical chemists are typically found as HE researchers at the start of their careers, although many enter non-HE research roles in the pharmaceutical or chemicals industry, and in and scientific research and development.

Much of this HE research work is very similar in nature to the research work the new entrant carried out as a doctoral student, with an increased level of responsibility. As a result, most entrants into these research roles should have a good idea of the basic nature of the job and many of the key responsibilities.

Analytical chemists typically use a diverse range of methods to investigate the chemical and physical nature of substances. The aim of such work is to identify and understand the substance and how it behaves in different conditions.

In the pharmaceutical industry, for example, analytical chemists are involved throughout the drug development process. They study the physical or chemical properties of drug substances and formulations, with a view to determining the quality and stability of drug products and to help with the development of synthetic processes.

Analytical chemists often work in tandem with synthetic chemists to characterise the results of synthesis, and with other analytical chemists who specialise in other techniques.

They also typically maintain analytical equipment and are often involved in method and equipment development.

Typical work activities

Typical tasks undertaken by doctoral graduates include:

  • Analysing samples from various sources to provide information on compounds or quantities of compounds present
  • Using analytical techniques and instrumentation, such as gas and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), ion chromatography, electrochromatography and spectroscopy (e.g. infrared and ultraviolet)
  • Interpreting data and adhering to strict guidelines on documentation when recording data
  • Reporting scientific results
  • Using a range of analytical techniques, instrumentation and software
  • Developing new techniques for the analysis of drug products and chemicals
  • Working collaboratively in cross-functional multi-disciplinary teams
  • Liaising with customers, staff and suppliers
  • Being aware of, and keeping up to date with, health and safety issues in all aspects of the work undertaken
  • Validating methods and equipment
  • Collaborating with industry/academia to apply the results of research and develop new techniques, products or practices
  • Publishing papers, and presenting ongoing work and findings to colleagues at academic conferences
  • Teaching, demonstrating or supervising students (in academia) and training and supervising other members of staff
  • Devising or helping to draw up new research proposals and applying for funding and grants 

Following some experience doctoral graduates may become involved in the following tasks:

There are a wide range of techniques involved in analytical chemistry, and typically a doctoral analytical chemist will specialise in a small number, working primarily, for example, in mass spectrometry or chromatography.

Entry requirements

Analytical chemists come from a range of disciplinary backgrounds including physical/mathematical/applied science, life sciences and medical science.  This is a highly specialist area which is currently experiencing skills shortages. Almost all doctoral graduates entering the field have a doctorate in chemistry or appropriate specialism; for certain roles, clinical subjects with a strong analytical element, such as pharmacy or pharmacology are also potential entry subjects.

The academic standards for the occupation are usually high and a doctoral qualification in analytical chemistry or a related subject may be an advantage for longer-term promotion and professional development. Doctoral graduates are likely to be recruited into more senior posts.

Analytical chemists generally need to be skilled in good laboratory practice (GLP) and have a theoretical knowledge, although not necessarily practical experience, of a range of analytical techniques and instrumentation. Being able to perform tasks to quality standards in a safe environment is also a requirement.

Salary

Starting salaries range from £16,000 - £30,000. However, doctoral graduates will typically start further up the salary range than other graduates. Salaries at senior level/with experience (e.g. after 10-15 years in the role) vary, but typically range from £26,000 - £50,000 (salary data collected January 2010). Analytical chemists with management responsibilities tend to earn more.

Sector and disciplinary information

Sector information

Doctoral graduates from 2006-9 working in this occupation were known to be employed in the following profiled sectors six months after graduation:

Disciplinary background

In particular, the following experience in the following areas may improve your chances:

Career stories

None available

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