analytical chemist (chemistry)

Analytical chemists typically use a diverse range of methods to investigate the chemical 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.
Analytical chemists may be involved in work as diverse as:

• chemical or forensic analysis;
• process development;
• product validation;
• quality control;
• toxicology;
• drug formulation and development.

Typical work activities

Typical work activities 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 (infrared and ultraviolet, amongst others);
• 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 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.

Range of typical starting salaries: £16,000 - £30,000. Those entering with a PhD start on higher salaries (salary data collected January 2010).

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.

Salaries vary depending upon the employer, geographical location and the employer’s primary business. Benefits also differ according to the employer, but free or subsidised medical insurance is common.

The working hours are nine to five, possibly with some extra hours depending upon the workload and sample schedule.

Working in multidisciplinary teams is common, as is communicating with scientists and customers from both within and outside the company.

At more junior levels, staff are likely to be predominantly lab-based, whereas staff at more senior levels are increasingly office-based.

Self-employment is very unlikely due to the significant financial investment in equipment and staffing, plus the need for accreditation. There are opportunities for freelance consultancy work, although large companies tend to have their own experts.

Part-time work and career breaks may be possible.

Jobs are widely available throughout the country and tend to be in large, localised centres. Research and development (R&D) work, however, is more common in the South.

Work may occasionally be stressful due to tight deadlines and pressure to solve problems as quickly as possible. Routine analysis may involve doing the same job for long periods of time, although this is less likely at more senior levels.

Typically, travel within a working day and absence from home overnight are not that common. Overseas travel is rare, although secondments abroad may be possible at higher grades