3 answers
Naomi
Student
Pensacola, Florida
1
Question
Updated
1225 views
What careers in chemistry if I love ochem?
I’m a junior in college and recently decided that my major, marine biology, isn’t going to work out. But I love chemistry and am taking organic chemistry at the moment and find it so fascinating . I need to talk with my advisor to tell her that I need to switch to biochemistry or chemistry degree. I figured biochemistry would have the best of both worlds , chemistry and biology, but the more I read they don’t work with the nitty gritty of chemistry itself but of the interactions with organisms. Is that true? I know I need to go to grad school so don’t want to make the wrong choice , I just I enjoy science, mechanisms and the actual interactions with molecules themselves and specifically organic chemistry . Is there a career that would involve that ? Ideally I would want to work in a lab as well . Thanks ! ?
Also, I’ve researched into environmental chemist, do they work with chemistry much or just mainly policy and paperwork ?
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2 answers
Charlotte Geiger
Public Health Science Student at the University of Maryland
150
Answers
Sykesville, Maryland
Updated
Charlotte’s Answer
Hi there!
It sounds like you’ve discovered a real passion for organic chemistry, and that’s fantastic! If you’re fascinated by chemical reactions, molecular interactions, and mechanisms, there are plenty of career paths that fit your interests. Switching from Marine Biology to Chemistry or Biochemistry makes sense, but it’s essential to choose the path that aligns best with your passion for the "nitty-gritty" of chemistry rather than just the biological applications. Let’s break down your options:
1. Chemistry vs. Biochemistry: Which Is Better for You?
Chemistry Major:
Focuses on the fundamental principles of chemical reactions, molecular structure, and synthesis.
Ideal if you love organic synthesis, reaction mechanisms, and working directly with molecules.
Biochemistry Major:
Blends biology and chemistry, focusing on chemical processes within living organisms.
More oriented towards biomolecules, metabolic pathways, and how chemistry affects biological functions.
Best Fit:
Since you’re drawn to the mechanistic and synthetic aspects of organic chemistry, a Chemistry major might be the better fit. You can always take biochemistry electives if you’re curious about the biological side.
2. Careers That Involve Organic Chemistry and Lab Work:
a. Synthetic Organic Chemist:
What They Do:
Design and synthesize new molecules, including pharmaceuticals, polymers, and organic materials.
Where They Work:
Pharmaceutical companies, chemical manufacturing, or academic research.
Why It’s a Fit:
You’ll work hands-on in a lab setting, designing chemical reactions and analyzing results.
Educational Path:
Typically requires a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry for advanced research roles.
b. Medicinal Chemist:
What They Do:
Develop and test new drugs, working closely with biologists and pharmacologists.
Where They Work:
Pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, or research institutions.
Why It’s a Fit:
Combines your love for organic synthesis with real-world applications in medicine.
Educational Path:
A Bachelor’s in Chemistry followed by a Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry or Pharmaceutical Sciences.
c. Analytical Chemist:
What They Do:
Analyze substances to determine their composition and concentration using techniques like NMR, GC-MS, and HPLC.
Where They Work:
Quality control labs, environmental testing, pharmaceutical analysis.
Why It’s a Fit:
Uses chemistry techniques to analyze chemical reactions and molecular interactions.
Educational Path:
A Bachelor’s or Master’s in Chemistry, often with a focus on instrumental analysis.
d. Organic Process Chemist:
What They Do:
Develop efficient methods to scale up chemical reactions from the lab to industrial production.
Where They Work:
Pharmaceutical manufacturing, chemical production plants.
Why It’s a Fit:
Involves optimizing organic reactions, perfect for someone who enjoys synthesis and practical applications.
Educational Path:
A Bachelor’s or Master’s in Chemistry, with experience in industrial chemistry.
e. Environmental Chemist (Clearing Up Misconceptions):
What They Do:
Study how chemicals move through the environment, monitor pollution, and develop remediation methods.
Where They Work:
Environmental agencies, consulting firms, or research labs.
Why It’s a Fit:
While some roles involve policy and regulatory compliance, others focus on lab analysis of pollutants and chemical interactions in ecosystems.
Educational Path:
A Bachelor’s in Chemistry or Environmental Science, with skills in analytical chemistry.
3. Going to Grad School: The Right Path for You
Since you’re interested in working in a lab and doing hands-on research, pursuing a graduate degree is the way to go. Consider the following:
Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry:
Ideal for careers in drug development, chemical synthesis, or academic research.
Master’s in Chemistry or Medicinal Chemistry:
Good for roles in applied research, quality control, or process chemistry.
Dual Degree Options (e.g., MS/Ph.D.):
Combine coursework with extensive research to gain practical and theoretical knowledge.
4. Tips for Making the Switch:
Talk to Your Advisor:
Be clear about your passion for organic chemistry and your desire to work in a lab setting.
Take Relevant Electives:
Choose courses like Advanced Organic Chemistry, Spectroscopy, and Chemical Synthesis.
Gain Lab Experience:
Look for research assistant positions in the chemistry department, even if it’s just for lab maintenance at first.
Join Chemistry Clubs:
Engage with the American Chemical Society (ACS) student chapter to network and attend relevant events.
Seek Internships:
Apply for summer research internships in chemistry labs or at pharmaceutical companies.
It sounds like you’ve discovered a real passion for organic chemistry, and that’s fantastic! If you’re fascinated by chemical reactions, molecular interactions, and mechanisms, there are plenty of career paths that fit your interests. Switching from Marine Biology to Chemistry or Biochemistry makes sense, but it’s essential to choose the path that aligns best with your passion for the "nitty-gritty" of chemistry rather than just the biological applications. Let’s break down your options:
1. Chemistry vs. Biochemistry: Which Is Better for You?
Chemistry Major:
Focuses on the fundamental principles of chemical reactions, molecular structure, and synthesis.
Ideal if you love organic synthesis, reaction mechanisms, and working directly with molecules.
Biochemistry Major:
Blends biology and chemistry, focusing on chemical processes within living organisms.
More oriented towards biomolecules, metabolic pathways, and how chemistry affects biological functions.
Best Fit:
Since you’re drawn to the mechanistic and synthetic aspects of organic chemistry, a Chemistry major might be the better fit. You can always take biochemistry electives if you’re curious about the biological side.
2. Careers That Involve Organic Chemistry and Lab Work:
a. Synthetic Organic Chemist:
What They Do:
Design and synthesize new molecules, including pharmaceuticals, polymers, and organic materials.
Where They Work:
Pharmaceutical companies, chemical manufacturing, or academic research.
Why It’s a Fit:
You’ll work hands-on in a lab setting, designing chemical reactions and analyzing results.
Educational Path:
Typically requires a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry for advanced research roles.
b. Medicinal Chemist:
What They Do:
Develop and test new drugs, working closely with biologists and pharmacologists.
Where They Work:
Pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, or research institutions.
Why It’s a Fit:
Combines your love for organic synthesis with real-world applications in medicine.
Educational Path:
A Bachelor’s in Chemistry followed by a Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry or Pharmaceutical Sciences.
c. Analytical Chemist:
What They Do:
Analyze substances to determine their composition and concentration using techniques like NMR, GC-MS, and HPLC.
Where They Work:
Quality control labs, environmental testing, pharmaceutical analysis.
Why It’s a Fit:
Uses chemistry techniques to analyze chemical reactions and molecular interactions.
Educational Path:
A Bachelor’s or Master’s in Chemistry, often with a focus on instrumental analysis.
d. Organic Process Chemist:
What They Do:
Develop efficient methods to scale up chemical reactions from the lab to industrial production.
Where They Work:
Pharmaceutical manufacturing, chemical production plants.
Why It’s a Fit:
Involves optimizing organic reactions, perfect for someone who enjoys synthesis and practical applications.
Educational Path:
A Bachelor’s or Master’s in Chemistry, with experience in industrial chemistry.
e. Environmental Chemist (Clearing Up Misconceptions):
What They Do:
Study how chemicals move through the environment, monitor pollution, and develop remediation methods.
Where They Work:
Environmental agencies, consulting firms, or research labs.
Why It’s a Fit:
While some roles involve policy and regulatory compliance, others focus on lab analysis of pollutants and chemical interactions in ecosystems.
Educational Path:
A Bachelor’s in Chemistry or Environmental Science, with skills in analytical chemistry.
3. Going to Grad School: The Right Path for You
Since you’re interested in working in a lab and doing hands-on research, pursuing a graduate degree is the way to go. Consider the following:
Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry:
Ideal for careers in drug development, chemical synthesis, or academic research.
Master’s in Chemistry or Medicinal Chemistry:
Good for roles in applied research, quality control, or process chemistry.
Dual Degree Options (e.g., MS/Ph.D.):
Combine coursework with extensive research to gain practical and theoretical knowledge.
4. Tips for Making the Switch:
Talk to Your Advisor:
Be clear about your passion for organic chemistry and your desire to work in a lab setting.
Take Relevant Electives:
Choose courses like Advanced Organic Chemistry, Spectroscopy, and Chemical Synthesis.
Gain Lab Experience:
Look for research assistant positions in the chemistry department, even if it’s just for lab maintenance at first.
Join Chemistry Clubs:
Engage with the American Chemical Society (ACS) student chapter to network and attend relevant events.
Seek Internships:
Apply for summer research internships in chemistry labs or at pharmaceutical companies.
Dan Bouck
Sales Manager
1
Answer
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Dan’s Answer
Hey Naomi, You are not alone in your thoughts. I was a Chemistry major and fell in love with organic chemistry too. I would speak with your professor or TA, in Orgo lab, to see if they knew of any professors looking for lab assistants. Organic chemistry will open the door to go down any path, following your undergraduate degree. The key is to find a lab project that interests you. Experience will be more critical then the major you choose. It sounds like you are doing great in school and now it's about getting to experience your passion first hand, outside of a school laboratory.
Dan
Reach out to who runs your orgo lab and ask about any professors who may be working on a lab project and needs some assistance.
Dan
Dan recommends the following next steps: