This area of science examines the basic composition of things and how this reacts to various phenomena. The discovery of the divisibility of the atom, only approximately 100 years ago, has greatly revolutionised the face of modern chemistry; this growth is certain to continue and escalate in the future.
Chemistry is applied in the working world through a wide variety of industries including pharmaceuticals, healthcare and chemical manufacturing: all of which are booming. The interesting nature of studying chemistry, combined with the undeniable bright career prospects makes it a smart option for students interested in science and in their future.
Education
Students can choose from a huge number of honours degree courses on offer including Chemistry, Biochemistry and Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical and Industrial Chemistry, Industrial Biochemistry, Chemistry with Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Chemistry with Molecular Modelling and Medicinal Chemistry, as well as higher certificate programmes in Chemistry and Applied Chemistry. Many students choose a general science degree course at one of the larger universities and then specialise in chemistry subjects.
The CAO points required can range from 300 to 450 for the degree courses, and less for the certificates. Candidates may have to have studied at least one honours Leaving Cert science subject.
The subjects you might encounter on a chemistry course include basic science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics) plus specialist topics such as Process Technology, Industrial Chemistry, Food Science and Technology, Organic Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Manufacture.
Chemistry courses feature an emphasis on practical skills with students getting hands on experience in the laboratory, and many courses include a work placement period, which can last a whole semester or year.
Other related course options include Physics and Chemistry of Advanced Materials, Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Science, Environmental Science, Pharmacy and, of course, Biology and Physics.
Options after Qualification
The career options for chemistry graduates are many and varied and include opportunities in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, agriculture, horticulture, environmental protection, manufacturing, engineering, healthcare, food, cosmetics and textiles sectors.
Employment can also be found in sales and business positions and in public sector laboratories, research institutes and second- and third-level teaching institutions.
There are also many postgraduate options for chemistry graduates, with the opportunity to conduct specialist study and research in your chosen area of expertise. There are close links between Irish universities and colleges and many of the multinational chemical and pharmaceutical companies located here.
The Work
People generally start their chemist or lab scientist career as laboratory technicians or operatives. The tasks might include setting up equipment and preparing materials and assisting with experiments and processes. However once you learn the (nylon) ropes you will be involved in the full range of tasks and responsibilities involved with being a professional scientist.
Analytical chemists examine the contents of foodstuffs, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and water to find out what chemicals they contain. In manufacturing plants, they ensure that standards of safety and quality are adhered to.
Industrial chemists create, develop and test chemical processes and products. They are experts in the chemical make-up and behaviour of substances and they use this knowledge to create useful new products – coffee whitener, for example, is a result of their work.
Biochemists are concerned with chemical processes in living things. The research the effect of various drugs, foods, hormones on humans, animals and plants, work to determine the cause of disease and develop and test new drugs.
Forensic scientists aim to link suspects to crime scenes by collecting and analysing physical evidence. They conduct tests on evidence such as fibres, paint, chemicals, firearms, hair, blood and body fluids to determine their significance. This doesn’t necessarily mean putting away murderers; forensic scientists are also involved in commercial and environmental investigations.
Personal Qualities & Work Environment
People with an inquisitive and analytical mind usually suit chemistry. An affinity with technology, and of course an interest in maths and science, would also be helpful traits.
Most chemistry graduates work in a laboratory environment with general office hours.
The Money
Salaries start in the €25,000 bracket for graduates and can rise quickly. Team leaders and senior researchers might earn salaries up to 80k or more a year.
Jargon
Pharmaceuticals – chemical substances and products that have medical applications
Molecular Modelling – using theories or formulae to model and predict the behaviour of molecules
Forensic Science – the use of scientific techniques and evidence to solve crimes
Job Titles
Chemist
Laboratory Chemist
Chemical Engineer
Quality Control Analyst
Process Development Chemist
Research Scientist
Forensic Scientist
Jargon
Molecule: The smallest particle of a substance that retains the chemical and physical properties of the substance and is composed of two or more atoms
Enzyme: a protein that speeds up (catalyses) a reaction
Geochemistry: the chemistry of and chemical composition of the Earth
Biochemistry: the chemistry of organisms
Proton: a positive unit or subatomic particle that has a positive charge
Further Resources
Institute of Chemistry of Ireland
PO Box 9322, Cardiff Lane, Dublin 2.
Web: www.chemistryireland.org
Email: info@instituteofchemistry.org
Pharmachemical Ireland
IBEC, Confederation House, 84-86 Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2.
Tel: 01 605 1584
Web: www.pharmachemicalireland.ie
Email: pharmachemicalireland@ibec.ie
Department of Chemistry
University College Cork
Cork
Tel: 021 490 2379
Web: http://chemweb.ucc.ie/
Email: chemistry@ucc.ie
UCD School of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering
UCD Engineering and Materials Science Centre
Belfield
Dublin 4
Tel: 01 716 1825
Web: www.ucd.ie/chembioeng/index.html
Email: chemical.eng@ucd.ie
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