Chemists and Materials Scientists : Occupational Outlook Handbook : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Summary

Chemists and materials scientists use powerful microscopes to examine the structures of substances.

Quick Facts: Chemists and Materials Scientists
2010 Median Pay	$69,790 per year $33.55 per hour
Entry-Level Education	Bachelor’s degree
Work Experience in a Related Occupation	None
On-the-job Training	None
Number of Jobs, 2010	90,900
Job Outlook, 2010-20	4% (Slower than average)
Employment Change, 2010-20	4,000

What Chemists and Materials Scientists Do

Chemists and materials scientists study the structures, compositions, reactions, and other properties of substances. They use their knowledge to develop new and improved products, processes, and materials.

Work Environment

Chemists and materials scientists work in laboratories and offices. They typically work full time and regular hours.

How to Become a Chemist or Materials Scientist

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.

Pay

The median annual wage of chemists was $68,320 in May 2010. The median annual wage of materials scientists was $84,720 in May 2010.

Job Outlook

Employment of chemists and materials scientists is expected to increase by 4 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations. Chemists and materials scientists with an advanced degree, particularly those with a Ph.D., are expected to experience better opportunities.

Similar Occupations

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of chemists and materials scientists with similar occupations.

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What Chemists and Materials Scientists Do About this section

Most chemists and materials scientists work as part of a team.

Duties

Chemists and materials scientists typically do the following:

Plan and carry out complex research projects, such as the development of new products, processes, and testing methods
Direct technicians and other workers in testing procedures to analyze components and physical properties of materials
Instruct scientists and technicians on proper chemical processing and testing procedures, such as ingredients, mixing times, and operating temperatures
Prepare test solutions, compounds, and reagents (such as acids) used in laboratory procedures
Analyze substances to determine their chemical and physical properties, such as their structure and composition
Conduct tests on materials and other substances to ensure that safety and quality standards are met
Write technical reports that detail methods and findings
Present research findings to scientists, engineers, and other colleagues

Many chemists and materials scientists work in basic and applied research. In basic research, chemists investigate the properties, composition, and structure of matter. They also experiment with the laws that govern the combination of elements and reactions of substances to each other.

In applied research, chemists create new products and processes or improve existing ones, often using knowledge gained from basic research. Chemistry research has led to the discovery and development of new and improved drugs, plastics, cleaners, and thousands of other products.

Almost all materials scientists work in applied research. They study the structures and chemical properties of various materials to develop new products or enhance existing ones. They also determine ways to strengthen or combine materials or develop new materials for use in a variety of products. Applications of materials science include superconducting materials, ceramics, and metallic alloys.

Chemists and materials scientists use computers and a wide variety of sophisticated laboratory instrumentation for modeling, simulation, and experimental analysis. For example, some chemists use three-dimensional (3D) computer modeling software to study the structure and other properties of complex molecules that they make.

Most chemists and materials scientists work as part of a team. An increasing number of scientific research projects involve multiple disciplines, and it is common for chemists and materials scientists to work on teams with other scientists, such as biologists and physicists, computer specialists, and engineers. For example, in pharmaceutical research, chemists may work with biologists to develop new drugs and with engineers to design ways to mass produce them. For more information, see the profiles on biochemists and biophysicists, microbiologists, zoologists and wildlife biologists, physicists and astronomers, computer and information technology occupations, and engineers.

Chemists often specialize in a particular branch of the field. The following are examples of some types of chemists:

Analytical chemists determine the structure, composition, and nature of substances by examining and identifying their various elements or compounds. They also study the relationships and interactions between the parts of compounds and develop new techniques for carrying out their work. Their research has a wide range of applications, including food safety, pharmaceuticals, and pollution control.

Inorganic chemists study the structure, properties, and reactions of molecules that do not contain carbon, such as metals. They work to understand the behavior and the characteristics of inorganic substances. Inorganic chemists figure out how these materials can be modified, separated, or used in products, such as ceramics and superconductors.

Medicinal chemists research and develop chemical compounds that can be used as pharmaceutical drugs. They work on teams with other scientists and engineers to create and test new drug products. They also help develop new and improved manufacturing processes to produce new drugs on a large scale effectively.

Organic chemists study the structure, properties, and reactions of molecules that contain carbon. They also design and make new organic substances that have unique properties and applications. These compounds have, in turn, been used to develop many commercial products, such as pharmaceutical drugs and plastics.

Physical chemists study the fundamental characteristics of how matter behaves on a molecular and atomic level and how chemical reactions occur. Based on their analyses, physical chemists may develop new theories, such as how complex structures are formed. Physical chemists often work closely with materials scientists to research and develop potential uses for new materials.

A growing numbers of chemists work in interdisciplinary fields, such as biochemistry and geochemistry. For more information, see the profiles on biochemists and biophysicists and geoscientists.

Many people with a chemistry background become professors or teachers. For more information, see the profiles on high school teachers and postsecondary teachers.

Work Environment About this section

Chemists must wear protective clothing such as gloves and goggles when handling hazardous chemicals.

Chemists and material scientists held about 90,900 jobs in 2010. The industries employing the largest numbers of chemists in 2010 were the following:

Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences	19%
Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing	18
Testing laboratories	11
Federal government, excluding postal service	8
Colleges, universities, and professional schools; state, local, and private	5

Most materials scientists work in manufacturing and scientific research and development.

Chemists and materials scientists typically work in laboratories and offices where they conduct experiments and analyze their results. In addition to laboratories, materials scientists work with engineers and processing specialists in industrial manufacturing facilities. Some chemists also work in these facilities and are usually responsible for monitoring the environmental conditions at the plant.

Chemists and materials scientists can be exposed to health or safety hazards when handling certain chemicals, but there is little risk if proper procedures are followed.

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 About this section

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 About this section

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

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 About this section

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%

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 research will offer many new opportunities for chemists and materials scientists. For example, chemical manufacturing industries will continue to invest billions of dollars each year to develop technologies and processes that reduce pollution and improve energy efficiency at manufacturing facilities.

Also, the development of improved battery technologies and alternative energy sources should lead to greater demand for chemists and materials scientists. Chemists will continue to be needed to monitor pollution levels at manufacturing facilities and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations.

Job Prospects

In addition to job openings resulting from employment growth, some job openings will result from the need to replace chemists and materials scientists who retire or otherwise leave the occupations.

Chemists and materials scientists with advanced degrees, particularly those with a Ph.D., are expected to experience better opportunities. Large pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms provide openings for these workers at research laboratories, and many others work in colleges and universities. Furthermore, chemists with advanced degrees will continue to fill most senior research and upper-management positions.

Employment projections data for chemists and materials scientists, 2010-20
Occupational Title	SOC Code	Employment, 2010	Projected Employment, 2020	Change, 2010-20		Employment by Industry
Occupational Title	SOC Code	Employment, 2010	Projected Employment, 2020	Percent	Numeric	Employment by Industry
SOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program
Chemists and Materials Scientists	19-2030	90,900	94,900	4	4,000	[XLS]
Chemists	19-2031	82,200	85,400	4	3,200	[XLS]
Materials Scientists	19-2032	8,700	9,500	10	900	[XLS]

Similar Occupations About this section

This table shows a list of occupations with job duties that are similar to those of chemists and materials scientists.

Occupation	Job Duties	ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION	2010 MEDIAN PAY
Agricultural and Food Scientists	Agricultural and food scientists work to ensure agricultural productivity and food safety.	See How to Become One	$58,450
Biochemists and Biophysicists	Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes such as cell development, growth, and heredity.	Doctoral or professional degree	$79,390
Chemical Engineers	Chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry, biology, and physics to solve problems. These problems involve the production or use of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food, and many other products. They design processes and equipment for large-scale safe and sustainable manufacturing, plan and test methods of manufacturing products and treating byproducts, and supervise production.	Bachelor’s degree	$90,300
Environmental Scientists and Specialists	Environmental scientists and specialists use their knowledge of the natural sciences to protect the environment. They identify problems and find solutions that minimize hazards to the health of the environment and the population.	Bachelor’s degree	$61,700
Geoscientists	Geoscientists study the physical aspects of the Earth, such as its composition, structure, and processes, to learn about its past, present, and future.	Bachelor’s degree	$82,500
High School Teachers	High school teachers help prepare students for life after graduation. They teach academic lessons and various skills that students will need to attend college and to enter the job market.	Bachelor’s degree	$53,230
Materials Engineers	Materials engineers develop, process, and test materials used to create a range of products, from computer chips and aircraft wings to golf clubs and snow skis. They also help select materials and develop new ways to use materials.	Bachelor’s degree	$83,120
Natural Sciences Managers	Natural sciences managers supervise the work of scientists, including chemists, physicists, and biologists. They direct research and development projects and coordinate activities such as testing, quality control, and production.	Bachelor’s degree	$116,020
Physicists and Astronomers	Physicists and astronomers study the fundamental nature of the universe, ranging from the vastness of space to the smallest of subatomic particles. They develop new technologies, methods, and theories based on the results of their research that deepen our understanding of how things work and contribute to innovative, real-world applications.	Doctoral or professional degree	$105,430
Postsecondary Teachers	Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a wide variety of academic and vocational subjects beyond the high school level. They also conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books.	Doctoral or professional degree	$62,050