Career in Organic Chemistry

Organic Chemistry offers a plethora of career prospects for both industry and academia. By 2028, the number of Chemist job vacancies is expected to increase by 4%, as per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With a growing emphasis on drug research, chemical and toxicological analysis, quality testing, and other areas of organic chemistry, an organic chemist is sure to discover several exciting career options. We bring you a blog on Career in Organic Chemistry, which will let you know what organic chemistry is, what does an organic chemist does, the skills required to become an organic chemist and more!

What is Organic Chemistry? 

Organic Chemistry is the discipline of Chemistry that studies organic substances scientifically (compounds that contain covalently bonded carbon atoms). Organic chemistry focuses on the structure and chemical composition of organic molecules, their physical and chemical properties, and the chemical reactions that these compounds undergo.

What do Organic Chemists do?

Organic Chemists research the structure, characteristics, and reactivity of carbon-based compounds. They also create new organic molecules with distinct characteristics and applications. Many commercial goods, such as pharmaceutical medications and plastics, have been developed using these chemicals.

Skills Required for Career in Organic Chemistry

A chemist is expected to be extremely attentive, thorough, patient, and logical. You’ll need the following abilities to pursue a career in organic chemistry: 

• Problem-solving skills 
• Time Management 
• Organizational skills 
• Scientific and analytical skills
• Communication skills and effective listener 
• Able to take directions 
• Leaderships and motivational abilities 
• Have a methodical approach to work activities 

Top 10 Universities for Career in Organic Chemistry

Many universities across the world offer organic chemistry programs. Are you facing the dilemma of which university to opt for? To help you in your research, we have listed the best globally accredited Universities that offer courses in Organic Chemistry:

University	Country	QS Rankings 2022
Stockholm University	Sweden	#148
Cardiff University	United Kingdom	#151
University of Central Lancashire	United Kingdom	#801 – 1000
McGill University	Canada	#27
University of Oxford	United Kingdom	#2
University of Manchester	United Kingdom	#27
University of East Anglia	United Kingdom	#307
Universitat de Barcelona	Spain	#168
Universidad Autonoma de Madrid	Spain	#207
University of California Berkeley	United States of America	#32

Eligibility Criteria for Organic University Courses

Before pursuing a career in organic chemistry, it is imperative to be aware of the eligibility criteria that you need to qualify. The universities decide these criteria to evaluate the individual’s skills, adeptness, and suitability for the course. Listed below are the general eligibility requirements that a prospective candidate must meet to qualify for this course.

• For pursuing a bachelor’s degree in organic chemistry, candidates must have subjects in Chemistry, and Mathematics. Minimum 55% aggregate is necessary for admissions into Bachelor’s degree courses. 
• The student should have completed their graduation with BSc Chemistry or any other related discipline and with the minimum percentage of marks made mandatory by their chosen academic institution
• Students wishing to study this postgraduate course abroad would have to undertake an English proficiency test like IELTS, TOEFL etc. Further, you will also have to provide GRE scores and submit an SOP, LORs and other admission essays.

Application Process

Step 1: Select the University and the Course 

The foremost thing is to select the degree level of organic chemistry course and the university you wish to pursue your undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD. Then, check all the necessary details including an overview of the course, cost of studying & living, work permit rules, and other important information.

Step 2: Gather All-Academic and Language Requirements

This step includes a collection of academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency test scores like TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo, SOP, LOR, student visa, copies of passport and degree certificates. However, GMAT is not a mandatory requirement, but it is suggested that you appear for the exam.

So, sign up for Leverage Live, prepare for IELTS and get the top scores to be a part of your chosen university in the UK!

Step 3: Start Applying

After collecting all the supporting documents, it’s time to fill up the application form. Fill in all the professional and personal information carefully. Once you have completed the application form, check all the details thoroughly and select a suitable time to submit your saved application. 

Step 4: Wait for the Offer or Conditional Letter 

Finally, wait for the offer letter from the selected university. The application process takes a few weeks for evaluation. After receiving the offer letter, do the initial research for accommodation, apply for student loans and grants. 

Documents Required

• Official academic transcripts
• Scanned copy of passport
• CV/ Resume
• Letter of Recommendation
• English language proficiency test scores
• Statement of Purpose
• Two Reference Letters

Also Read: Career Goals – Break them into Small, Medium & Long-term Plans

Career Opportunities in Organic Chemistry

You can find Organic Chemistry employment opportunities in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, health care, and research. Listed below are some of the job sectors where you can begin your career in Organic Chemistry. 

Organic Chemistry Professor 

A professor of organic chemistry is in charge of instructing students on the subject through lectures, presentations, and other techniques. In addition, chemistry professors may conduct scientific studies and publish the results.

Forensic Analyst 

Forensic science occupations require a bachelor’s in organic chemistry degree. A forensic analyst examines water, soil, humans, plants, and other samples for contaminants like poisons and chemicals.

Environmental Chemist 

An environmental chemist studies the chemical processes influenced by human activity in the environment. A new building, mining, and garbage disposal, particularly hazardous items and pharmaceuticals, are examples of possible operations. This project necessitates expertise in organic chemistry. 

Textile Chemist 

Organic chemists play an important role in the natural and synthetic textile industries. They look into unique ways to treat raw natural materials like wool, cotton, silk, and bamboo to make more durable and appealing fabrics and the chemical compositions of the dyes used to colour them.

Food Scientist 

Food scientists strive to improve the nutritional value, taste, appearance, preservation, and packaging of foods for humans and animals. In addition, they interact with nutritionists to provide special diets for athletes, astronauts, and patients with certain medical issues. Food scientists work in government institutions, such as NASA, and the food and agriculture businesses.

Pharmacologist 

In the pharmaceutical industry, a pharmacologist is in charge of developing and evaluating products. They examine various substances, look for ways to improve existing goods, perform drug trials, and publish research papers. 

Also Read: Build a Sureshot Career in Biostatistics

Top Recruiters 

Here’s a list of top recruiting companies that hire graduates of organic chemistry: 

• Pfizer 
• Johnson & Johnson 
• Shell Chemicals
• Abbott 
• Eli Lilly & Co. 
• Merck & Co. 
• Genentech 
• Procter & Gamble
• Phillips Chemical Company 

Salary Prospect

Here’s a breakdown of the salary trends offered to candidates pursuing their careers in organic chemistry.

Job Position	Average Salary Range (in USD)
Forensic Analyst	65,500 – 1,22,000 (INR 49 Lakhs – 92 Lakhs)
Environmental Chemist	73,600 – 98,800 (INR 55 Lakhs – 74 Lakhs)
Organic Chemistry Professor	90,000 – 2,29,000 (INR 67 Lakhs – 1.7 Cr)
Food Scientist	66,400 – 1,31,000 (INR 50 Lakhs – 98 Lakhs)
Textile Chemist	55,500 – 90,600 (INR 41 Lakhs – 68 Lakhs)
Pharmacologist	64,000 – 1,99,000 (INR 48 Lakhs – 1.5 Cr)

Also Read: Career in Transportation Engineering

FAQs

Are you planning to pursue a career in organic chemistry abroad but not sure where to start? Our Leverage Edu experts will provide end-to-end guidance from the application to the visa process. Call us at 1800 57 2000 to book your FREE 30-minutes counselling session today!