A medicinal chemist is at the heart of medicine discovery in the industry. They design and synthesise new chemical compounds, which are the active ingredients in most medicines.
What do they do?
They spend most of their time in the laboratory carrying out experiments. Most of their data and impetus come from biologists, pharmacologists and molecular model makers. When they have created a new, suitable compound it will be tested and re-tested until a better compound is found.
Can I do it?
You need a good chemistry-based degree, preferably specialising in synthetic organic or medicinal chemistry. Much of the competition will have postgraduate degrees so bear that in mind when making your career plans.
Career development
Chemistry-based postgraduates are given responsibility very early on, but if you're a top-class graduate you still have the opportunity to progress up the career ladder. Normally, though, graduates start in the lab and are given team leader positions as their skills develop.
Who needs them?
All pharma companies involved in drug development. A useful website to look for further information is the www.abpi.org.uk website.
