Polymer chemists require post-secondary training, related work experience, and laboratory skills. They focus on chemical synthesis and properties of polymers. Polymer chemistry is a fast-growing sector in the chemical industry, and a bachelor’s degree is required for entry-level positions. Laboratory skills are essential, and attention to detail is necessary.
There are three items needed to become a polymer chemist: post-secondary training, related work experience, and laboratory skills. A polymer chemist is trained specifically in chemical synthesis and focuses on the properties of polymers or macromolecules. This type of chemist can find job opportunities in a wide range of industries, from consumer or industrial products to research laboratories. Polymer chemists are responsible for the tremendous growth of plastics and related synthetic materials.
A polymer is a type of molecule that has repeating structures connected with covalent chemical bonds. In popular media, the term polymer is used to refer to plastic. However, the term polymer actually refers to a set of specific properties at the molecular level and these can be found in both organic and artificial materials. Polymer chemistry is also known as macromolecular chemistry and is one of the fastest growing sectors in the chemical industry.
People who want to become a polymer chemist are usually detail oriented, enjoy working independently, have a high degree of mental focus, and are interested in precision. The volume of knowledge needed to succeed in this career is quite significant and requires a high level of dedication and study. As a result, many chemists find that they need additional courses in communication and presentation skills later in their careers in order to master these skills.
The first requirement to become a polymer chemist is to complete a post-secondary education program. Typically, this is a college degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or synthetic chemistry. The vast majority of employers will accept a bachelor’s degree for an entry-level position as a polymer chemist. However, to advance your career, a master’s or doctoral degree in chemistry or chemical engineering is required.
Related work experience includes experience gained through an internship or internship program during your studies. It is extremely rare for anyone without formal post-secondary level training in chemistry to obtain a position in a polymer laboratory. Such training is required to work safely in this environment, and the risk of an accident is too high to allow untrained personnel access to volatile chemicals.
Laboratory skills are essential for anyone wanting to become a polymer chemist. The vast majority of the day is spent in the laboratory, combining chemicals, analyzing results, testing the properties of different synthetic chemicals, and documenting experiments. These skills are taught during post-secondary training. Accuracy, precision and focus are essential to achieving a high quality work product.
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