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Jessica

Jessica

Analytical Chemist

Cooper Vision

1669


  • Video »
  • Case Study »
    • Jessica graduated university in 2019 with a degree in Bioscience and Forensics.
    • She is currently an analytical chemist for a company called Cooper Vision and has previously worked as an analytical chemist testing medical devices such as ventilators for COVID patients.

  • Did you know? »
    • Any products being manufactured such as medicines, ice cream and even beers need analytical chemists to ensure that the quality of them meet safety standards.
  • Routes »

    University:

    • You’ll usually need a degree qualification to become a chemist. Subjects include chemistry, applied or analytical chemistry, biochemistry. As well as a degree, many employers will also want you to have a relevant postgraduate qualification.
    • Some universities offer an extended degree which leads directly to a postgraduate qualification like an MChem or MSci. These courses have more independent research and can lead directly into professional practice or further postgraduate study.

    Apprenticeship:

    • You may be able to get into this career through a laboratory scientist higher apprenticeship.

    Workplace:

    • You could start your career as a laboratory technician and train as a chemist while working by doing a relevant qualification.
  • Entry Requirements »

    University:

    • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
    • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including chemistry a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

    Apprenticeship:

    • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
  • Skills and Knowledge »
    • Laboratory skills.
    • Knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
    • Maths knowledge
    • Science skills
    • Excellent verbal communication skills
    • Complex problem-solving skills
    • To be thorough and pay attention to detail
    • Analytical thinking skills
    • The ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
    • To be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

  • 10 reasons why »
    1. Learning never stops!
    2. Potential to be involved in something lifesaving
    3. Hand-on, practical work
    4. The lab is your office
    5. High employment rate
    6. Ensuring safety in chemicals and ingredients for consumers
    7. Preventing future harm to customers
    8. Involved in the research and development process in new products
    9. Helping patients in their treatment
    10. Variety of sectors to choose from

  • Other roles that may interest you »
    • Research
    • Development of medicines

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You can work in this job for a thousand years and there will still be something to learn.