Case studies: Development technologist: Remya

Remya makes the most of her chemistry degree working for a paint and coatings manufacturer...

I started applying for jobs in my final year of university. I had completed a year out in industry during my course and so had some experience of the application process. It was all about visibility - getting my CV on job websites (such as Monster and Total Jobs) and sending a tailored CV and covering letter out to employers and specialist recruitment agencies, e.g. CK Science and the Scientific Recruitment Group (SRG) .

Phone interviews, interviews and assessment centres were all part of the application process. I was eventually successful in gaining the role of development technologist for International Paint.

A chemistry degree is essential for my role. I work in research, trying to understand how individual components of a coating can affect properties. This means that I need to understand the chemistry of these components and whether there might be a more efficient way of using them. This would not be possible without my chemistry degree.

Other key skills include communication, teamwork and results orientation. It is also important to be innovative, have a customer and quality focus and, most importantly, knowledge of health and safety requirements.

I was heavily involved with the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)  during my time at university, and still am. The opportunities for networking and finding out about career options are really helpful. I also carry out visits to schools and meet other chemists to discuss how to spread the love of chemistry. There are a lot of employers who value membership of a professional body and the associated benefits.

I work with marine coatings, trying to ensure that marine vessels have the best protection and functionality with their coatings. I specifically look at environmentally friendly coatings, which is where the future challenge lies.

There is no fixed routine to my day - it just depends on the work that needs to be done. I work on a project by myself so control my own schedule, working in the lab or spending time in the office. Lab tasks can involve manufacture of paint, quality checking, performance testing of coatings and small scale lab tests such as dry times and viscosity measurements. Office tasks include formulating paint systems, updating lab books, research and meetings.

I also get the opportunity to experience the issues first hand by going out to shipyards, attending training courses and visiting different parts of the world to meet experts and understand what is needed.

What I enjoy most about my job is the diversity; I am not just the typical ‘white coat’ chemist that people normally associate with chemistry. I also like the responsibility, which gives me the opportunity to develop both myself and the technology. Working for a large company (parent company AkzoNobel is the largest coatings company in the world) also means that I have many opportunities for career development.

My advice to students is to get some work experience in the chemical industry. My placement year at Merck Sharp & Dohme Ltd gave me an insight into the industry, as well as valuable skills, and prepared me for the real world when applying for jobs.

AGCAS

Written by AGCAS editors

Date: 

August 2010

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