Research and Development Chemist
28AI USED FOR28%moving to73%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSD
STARTING PAY£30,000 - £40,000
NO MOATNo physical, legal or personal barrier protects this work from software.
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CAREERMASH (EN)FROM PHYSICAL SCIENCES →
Research and Development Chemist
Research and Development Chemists are at the forefront of innovation, driving advancements in pharmaceuticals, materials science, and environmental solutions. Their work not only enhances product efficacy and safety but also contributes significantly to global sustainability and health improvements.
THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years
AI helps here, but has not taken over
AI is already used for some of this job, but the day-to-day work still leans on a person to decide, check and take responsibility. Nothing formally protects this job though, so the safest move is to keep building the judgement AI cannot yet copy.
Career progression path
1FIRST STEPJunior Research and Development ChemistIn this entry-level position, you will assist senior chemists in conducting experiments and analysing data. You will gain hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and contribute to the development of new products.£30,000 - £40,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-Level Research and Development ChemistAt this stage, you will lead projects, design experiments independently, and mentor junior staff. You will be responsible for managing timelines and ensuring that research objectives are met.£50,000 - £65,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Research and Development ChemistIn a senior role, you will oversee multiple projects, drive strategic research initiatives, and collaborate with external partners. You will play a key role in shaping the direction of research and development within your organisation.£85,000+
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
🎓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
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.
Physics with AstrophysicsUniversity of Exeter · DegreeAcoustical Engineering with Industrial Placement YearUniversity of Southampton · DegreePhysicsQueen's University of Belfast · DegreeChemistry with Cosmetic ScienceThe University of Reading · DegreeChemistry with Medicinal ChemistryThe University of Manchester · DegreePhysicsUniversity of Aberdeen · Degree