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Chemical Scientist

Chemical scientists n.e.c. play a pivotal role in innovating and advancing the chemical sciences, addressing global challenges such as sustainability, healthcare, and energy. Their expertise fuels research and development across various industries, making them essential for driving progress and enhancing quality of life in the UK and beyond.

Chemical Scientist

40

Physical Sciences

AI IMPACT
AI USED FOR40%moving to78%
THE DOOR, NOWC
THE DOOR, 20 YRSE
STARTING PAY£28,000 - £35,000
MOAT NOT YET CLASSIFIEDA real score, but the moat is not yet classified. No claim either way.

THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years

AI already does a real share of this work
AI is used for a real share, around 40% of the day-to-day tasks of the day-to-day tasks in this job today. We have not yet classified what, if anything, structurally protects it, so we make no claim either way about a moat: the exposure score is the measured part. Learn the tools, and build the judgement that stays human.

Career progression path

1FIRST STEPJunior Forensic ScientistIn this entry-level role, you will assist in the collection and analysis of evidence, gaining hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and crime scene investigation.£28,000 - £35,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-level Forensic ScientistAs a mid-level forensic scientist, you will take on more complex cases, lead investigations, and mentor junior staff while continuing to develop your expertise.£40,000 - £55,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Forensic Scientist/Head of Forensic UnitIn this peak career role, you will oversee forensic investigations, manage teams, and contribute to policy development within the forensic science community.£70,000+

Apprenticeship listings for this career → (June 2026 snapshot; check closing dates on the official service)

The degree route

Courses in this career's subject area, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.

🎓Physics with AstrophysicsUniversity of Exeter · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£35,000 median
🎓Acoustical Engineering with Industrial Placement YearUniversity of Southampton · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£32,000 median
🎓PhysicsQueen's University of Belfast · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£30,000 median
🎓Chemistry with Cosmetic ScienceThe University of Reading · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
🎓Chemistry with Medicinal ChemistryThe University of Manchester · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
🎓PhysicsUniversity of Aberdeen · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£28,500 median

All Physical Sciences courses as cards →

There is more than one way in

You do not have to go the university route to get here. There is also a vocational route that skips a degree entirely.

Degree subjects that lead this way

Courses in this career's subject area, from the same register that priced the degree above. Subject-matched, not a guaranteed qualifying route: check each course's own entry requirements and any professional accreditation before you rely on it.