List of Chemistry Careers in the Medical Field

Labs, hospitals and pharmaceutical companies all need people knowledgeable in chemistry to work with chemical compounds, study or develop new medications or analyze properties of bodily fluids. From lab technicians to research scientists, the employment opportunities in the medical field are extensive. When applying for a chemistry job in a medical field, as with most chemistry-related careers, the more education you have completed the better your opportunities. Almost all positions require at least a bachelor's degree in chemistry and most demand further education.

Clinical Chemistry Technologist

• Clinical chemistry technologists analyze the chemical and hormonal properties of bodily fluids. These analyses aid doctors in diagnosing and treating diseases. The technologists work in a laboratory setting preparing specimens and running both routine and complex tests. Laboratories are generally very clean and well lit. Technologists spend a lot of time on their feet. According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, a bachelor's degree in chemistry is required for an entry-level position in this field.

Medicinal Chemists

• Medicinal chemists work for pharmaceutical companies or biotechnology firms. They research new drugs, analyze and map genes and create new chemical compounds to fight disease. A bachelor's degree in chemistry may suffice for an entry-level position, but to advance a master's degree in chemistry is needed.

Pharmaceutical Salesperson

• Pharmaceutical companies are eager to hire chemistry graduates to promote and sell the latest medicines. Generally, pharmaceutical salespeople visit doctors' offices, clinics and hospitals. Doctors rely heavily on pharmaceutical salespeople to educate them about new drugs and advances in the pharmaceutical field. Good interpersonal skills and the ability to educate are important traits for a pharmaceutical salesperson. A bachelor's degree is recommended for an entry-level position.