Chemical Scientists study the properties, composition and behaviour of substances at the molecular and atomic levels. They work in diverse fields such as pharmaceuticals, materials science, environmental science and biotechnology. Chemical Scientists conduct experiments, analyse data, and develop theories to understand chemical reactions and processes. They contribute to innovations in medicine, technology and sustainable energy by designing new materials, improving manufacturing processes and solving environmental challenges.

Learning areas/subjects

You may be interested in this occupation group if you enjoyed these learning areas at school:

  • Physics
  • Chemistry
  • Environmental sciences
  • Maths

Skills

  • Practical
  • Scientific
  • Teamwork
  • Problem-solving
Food Scientist

Chemists, and Food and Wine Scientists

Chemists, and Food and Wine Scientists study the chemical and physical properties of substances, develop and monitor chemical processes and production, develop and improve new and existing food products, and plan and coordinate the production of wine and spirits.

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Chemical Science

Chemical and Materials Engineers

Chemical and Materials Engineers design and prepare chemical process systems and commercial-scale chemical plants. They supervise industrial processing and fabrication of products, investigate the properties of materials, and assess and develop their engineering and commercial applications.

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Chemical Science

Science Technicians

Science Technicians perform tests and experiments, and provide technical support functions to assist with research, design, production and teaching in chemistry, earth sciences, life sciences and physical sciences.

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Hear from women in chemical science

Raffaella Demichelis

"There is always something to learn in every situation. Many of my best outcomes and most creative ideas are the result of overcoming difficulties I did not expect."

Raffaella Demichelis

Senior Research Fellow

Lidia Matesic

"Follow your interests and take all the opportunities you can."

Lidia Matesic

Radiochemist

Have you heard of green chemistry?

Are you interested in chemistry and sustainability? Then you might be keen to learn more about green chemistry. 

Green chemistry is a field of chemistry dedicated to developing methods that reduce the environmental impact of industrial processes. This involves recycling resources, minimising by-products, and finding ways to make these by-products less harmful to the environment.

Check out this free Careers in STEM job kit to learn more about green chemistry. 

Check out the green chemistry job kit