Chemistry and biology majors have an abundant source of career opportunities available to them. Because both are central sciences, professionals who hold these degrees are needed in nearly every industry, business, and government sphere. A degree in biology or chemistry can lead to investigative, teaching, or research careers. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is one of the largest employers for chemical and biological professionals. It is important that you read more about Bachelor’s degree online if you are interested in pursuing your education.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration posted chemists as one of the “critical” job positions for its 2010 hiring initiative. Experience is always a plus when applying for any job, but many of the chemist positions available at the FDA do not stress experience as much as they require education credentials and proof of specialized coursework in order to complete an application.
Chemists who are employed with the FDA can utilize analytical, evaluation, research, and investigation skills when performing duties. Research may include studying the effects of dietary supplements and food components, while investigative work may entail examining the effects of drugs and agricultural chemicals on laboratory and farm animals. Evaluation skills may be used to determine if the methods, facilities, and controls used to manufacture drugs are adequate. Find out why everyone is talking about online Masters degree.
A chemist, for example, could hold a position of an “interdisciplinary chemist” in the FDA. This position is a managerial role where the chemist could lead the coordination of various regulatory and scientific projects. The projects could be associated with radiological, nuclear, biological, and chemical preparedness. As for the FDA, the interdisciplinary chemist would interact with FDA constituents, federal agencies, and outside organizations.
The FDA interdisciplinary chemist position requires a degree in physical or life science or in engineering. In addition to the degree, the applicant must have six semester hours in physics and 30 hours in chemistry in addition to substantial coursework in mathematics; calculus is beneficial. This position can garner an annual salary of well over $105,000.
Biologists are another “critical” hire for the Food and Drug Administration. As with chemists, biologists must also possess analytical and research skills. Biologists may be tasked with conducting research preparation and preservation of blood and blood products. They might find themselves studying the biological effects of additives or contaminants commonly found in foods. Or, they may be assigned with reviewing clinical data on various medical products to determine if they are safe and effective. Get more information about online Masters and you will be happy with what you find.
Basic education requirements for a FDA biologist include a degree in biological science, chemistry, agriculture, or natural resource management. Math and other science related courses are beneficial too. For biologists, the more experience and/or specialized education, the higher the level of the position one can achieve.
Students pursuing a chemistry or biology degree have so many career opportunities available to them upon graduation. Both of these science disciplines are used across the board in nearly every workforce as well as in a university setting. Chemistry and biology professionals are in high demand within the U.S. Government sector, including the Food and Drug Administration.
