Analytical Chemist

A career in health

Is this you?
Enjoy chemistry and physics Have practical skills Problem solver Good communication skills Technology savvy

What is an analytical chemist?

The role of an analytical chemist is to identify unknown material and accurately measure the amount of a particular chemical in a sample. Chemists working for the Government carry out analysis on lots of different things to help the Government keep the community safe. They also preserve the environment by monitoring pollutants in air, water and soil.
It is a job made especially for the inquisitive mind. From the pharmaceuticals created to save lives to the fuels used to power flights into space, the analytical chemist is working to solve some of the worlds most intriguing questions.

Have you always wanted to know why? I found that taking on a career in chemistry can answer a lot of questions you have about the things that happen around you.
Daniel Smart, Analytical Chemist

What does an analytical chemist do?

Chemists at our laboratory contribute to the investigation of events that make the news including: Murder investigations Car accidents Chemical spills Drug seizures Product defects Pollution Food quality issues Fires Problems affecting the export of Queensland products Toy safety Counter terrorism.

How do you become an analytical chemist?

To become an analytical chemist you require a degree in applied science with a major chemistry component in the course. The various universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the university you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Degree courses:
University of Queensland Bachelor of Science (Chemistry), 3 years full time Queensland University of Technology Bachelor of Applied Science, 3 years full time James Cook University Bachelor of Science (Chemistry), 3 years full time

Where can an analytical chemist work in Queensland Health?

Forensic and Scientific Services, provides a range of services in chemical analysis, environmental health, health physics, communicable diseases (microbiology), forensic pathology, DNA analysis and forensic medicine. Outside of Queensland Health, jobs for analytical chemists are available in pharmaceutical companies, oil refineries, food production and a variety of other industries.

Where can I find more information?

Queensland University of Technology The Faculty of Science and Technology Phone: (07) 3138 2782 Email: enquiry.scitech@qut.edu.au Website: www.qut.edu.au University of Queensland The Faculty of Science Phone: (07) 3365 1888 Email: science.enquiries@uq.edu.au Website: www.uq.edu.au James Cook University Phone: 1800 246 446 Email: EnquiriesTownsville@jcu.edu.au EnquiriesCairns@jcu.edu.au Forensic and Scientific Services Forensic Sciences Liaison Unit Phone: (07) 3274 9000 Email: qhpss-forensics@health.qld.gov.au Website: www.health.qld.gov.au/qhcss/qhss

Can an analytical chemist specialise?

Analytical chemists have the opportunity to work in a variety of chemistry related fields, from environmental monitoring to forensic analysis. Once you possess the skills and experience necessary, you can specialise within a variety of different areas such as managing or training other analytical chemists, or consulting and liaising with other departments in and outside of Forensic and Scientific Services.

The QTAC website has a list of universities and tertiary institutions with links to universities and courses offered. Go to www.qtac.edu.au and select Institutions.

To find out more about the exciting career opportunities in Queensland Health and what we can offer you go to www.health.qld.gov.au/workforus

Do great things every day www.health.qld.gov.au/workforus

Disclaimer: While all attempts have been made to ensure accuracy of information, this fact sheet should not be relied on as a definitive information source. We encourage you to check with universities for more information or updates. State of Queensland, Queensland Health, April 2009