Polymer chemists study the properties of polymers, which are groups of molecules that form strong, flexible chains, through research and laboratory experiments. The majority of polymer chemist jobs are in manufacturing plants’ research and development departments. Universities employ some chemists to conduct experimental studies on new chemicals. Furthermore, many professionals work for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to investigate the applications of polymer technology in health care.
Polymer chemists in the manufacturing industry typically work in high-tech laboratories. They frequently work in groups to investigate various polymers and determine how they might be applied in industry. A group of chemists might be interested in developing new plastics, packaging materials, inks, paints, or a variety of other polymer-based products. They’re also looking for ways to improve existing polymer products, such as making them lighter, stronger, or more flexible.
Research on organic polymers implicated in biology or medicine is typical of polymer chemist jobs in biotechnology companies. Many professionals study genetics to learn how biologic polymers like proteins, enzymes, and DNA are made and replicated. They investigate the chemical structure of polymers in order to learn more about how and why they play a role in biological processes. Dedicated polymer chemists contribute to our collective scientific understanding of evolution and development on a regular basis.
Polymer chemists are employed by pharmaceutical and medical technology companies to develop new medications and prosthetic devices. Chemists investigate new drug delivery and release methods using their understanding of polymer bonds and properties. Some scientists create plastics and synthetic fibers that can be used to make durable, lightweight artificial limbs and organs.
Researchers at universities usually have more freedom in terms of the types of studies they conduct. Instead of focusing on improving a specific technology, a chemist can investigate new polymer properties and functions. Many university scientists divide their time between conducting research and teaching graduate and undergraduate chemistry classes.
The majority of polymer chemist jobs, especially those in academia and medicine, require a Ph.D. Following graduation, a new scientist usually pursues a postdoctoral research fellowship to gain hands-on experience in the lab. Before working independently, many regions and private companies require chemists to pass licensing exams. In the chemical industry, public safety and quality control are critical, and licensing exams ensure that people are fully prepared for polymer chemist jobs.