Analytical chemist

gradireland editorial team

Last updated: 24 Feb 2023, 12:37

An analytical chemist assesses the chemical structure and nature of substances for a variety of purposes including drug development, forensic analysis and toxicology.

woman working on a tablet

Analytical chemists analyse samples using a range of modern analytical techniques including ion/electro-chromatography, gas/high performance liquid chromatography and spectroscopy. They are employed by a variety of public and private sector organisations, and can specialise in areas such as toxicology, pharmaceuticals, quality control or forensics.

Work activities

  • Using a range of software, techniques and equipment to carry out research and analysis.
  • Analysing and interpreting data.
  • Making sure that data is accurately recorded in accordance to guidelines.
  • Reporting/presenting results.
  • Writing research papers, reports, reviews and summaries.
  • Keeping up to date with scientific and technical developments.
  • Ensuring that health and safety issues are adhered to.
  • Preparing product licence documentation.
  • Liaising with customers, suppliers and research/scientific staff.
  • Developing new analytical methods.

Work conditions

Travel: is limited; work is mainly laboratory based.
Working hours: typically nine to five, with some longer hours depending on deadlines and workload.
Location: Opportunities are available with various government agencies, research organisations, hospitals and consultancies across Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Typical employers

  • Hospitals
  • Government agencies
  • Research organisations
  • Consultancies

Entry requirements

A strong academic background is essential; relevant degree subjects are chemistry, applied/analytical chemistry or biochemistry.

A postgraduate qualification in analytical chemistry alongside work experience in a laboratory environment could further career development in the field. HE Institutions such as University College Cork offer suitable courses.

gradireland editorial advice

This describes editorially independent and impartial content, which has been written and edited by the gradireland content team. Any external contributors featuring in the article are in line with our non-advertorial policy, by which we mean that we do not promote one organisation over another.

People reading this also searched for roles in these areas:

undefined background image

We've got you

Get the latest jobs, internships, careers advice, courses and graduate events based on what's important to you. Start connecting directly with top employers today.
Join gradireland