Biotech Researcher
A person with a bachelor of science in chemistry can work as a biotech researcher. Biotech researchers use their skills to investigate the properties, composition and structure of matter and the laws that govern the combination of elements and reactions of substances to each other. Furthermore, a biotech researcher working in the research and development (R&D) department of a biotech company can create new products and processes or improve existing ones based on the knowledge gained through research findings. A biotech researcher must know how to use the computer and the different laboratory instruments in order to perform modeling, simulation and experimental analysis. According to the BLS, many research jobs may also require a master's degree or, more often, a Ph.D. The average salary of a biotech researcher as of 2009 is $59,000 per year.
Quality Operations Lab Technician
Bio-pharmaceuticals are also on a look out for people with degrees in chemistry, microbiology, biology and related sciences to work as quality operations lab technicians. A quality operations lab technician is someone proficient in standard laboratory techniques and laboratory data management systems. She should know how to use the different tools and methodology in performing lab tests. She should be able to analyze the results from those lab tests and be able to interpret them accordingly. Merck & Company is one of the bio-pharmaceutical firms that hire quality operations lab technicians. You can visit Merck.com (see Resources) to submit a profile and resume. The average salary of a quality operations lab technician as of 2009 is $43,000 per year.
Analytical Chemist
Another job in the biotech industry that a graduate with a degree in chemistry can obtain is analytical chemist. The analytical chemist performs qualitative and quantitative analysis through series of tests performed in the lab. She isolates, defines, concentrates and preserves samples in order to perform tests where she can set error limits. She then validates and verifies results through calibration and standardization. She utilizes knowledge gained through experience to perform separation based on differential chemical properties. An analytical chemist can use her knowledge of chemistry, instrumentation and statistics to solve problems in all areas of chemistry required by a biotech company. In biotechnology, an analytical chemist can use the measurements and results to assure compliance with environmental regulations and to aid in the discovery of new drugs that can help cure diseases. In addition to the degree in chemistry and excellent problem-solving skills, good oral and written communication skills help an analytical chemist explain the results through presentations of results. The average salary of an analytical chemist as of 2009 is $56,000 per year.
References
Biospace.com: Biotech and Pharmaceutical News & Jobs
Job Outlook for Chemists
Analytical Chemistry
