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Analytical chemists assess the chemical structure and nature of substances. Their skills are needed for a variety of purposes including drug development, forensic analysis and toxicology.

Analytical chemists analyse samples using a range of techniques such as electro-chromatography, high performance liquid chromatography and spectroscopy. They are employed by a variety of public and private sector organisations, and can specialise in areas such as toxicology, pharmaceuticals, quality control or forensics. Typical responsibilities include:

• using a range of software, techniques and equipment to carry out research and analysis

• analysing and interpreting data

• making sure that data is accurately recorded in accordance with guidelines

• reporting and presenting results

• writing research papers, reports, reviews and summaries

• keeping up to date with scientific and technical developments

• ensuring that health and safety standards are adhered to

• preparing product licence documentation

• liaising with customers, suppliers and research/scientific staff

• developing new analytical methods

Qualifications and training required

You can only become an analytical chemist if you have a good honours degree in a relevant subject such as chemistry, applied/analytical chemistry or biochemistry. There are also opportunities for geochemists, materials scientists, mathematicians and environmental scientists within the field of analytical chemistry. Practical research/laboratory work experience is helpful, although full training on the job is often available.

A postgraduate qualification in analytical chemistry may be beneficial for careers in research or for career advancement in the long term and may allow entry to the profession at a more senior level.

Key skills for analytical chemists

Analytical work demands patience, determination, creativity, flexibility and decisiveness. Employers increasingly look for both research and transferable skills including:

• a logical and independent mind

• the motivation and ability to solve complex problems

• a systematic approach to tasks

• theoretical knowledge of analytical techniques

• the ability to develop and validate new methods

• excellent IT skills

• numerical and analytical ability

• teamworking

• responsibility

• communication and presentation skills

Typical employers of analytical chemists

• Government agencies

• Publicly funded research councils

• Hospitals

• Universities

• Public health laboratories

• Environmental agencies

• Specialist research organisations

• Consultancies

• Testing companies

• Private food, materials, polymers, biotechnology, pharmaceutical and chemical companies