Re: Moving into analytical chem

From: Marvin (physchemNOSPAM_at_cloud9.net)
Date: 01/30/05 

Date: Sun, 30 Jan 2005 14:15:24 -0500

Dr Steve wrote:
> I'm curious if anyone else has made this move and what your thoughts were?
> The environment is great, the potential boss is great, the lab is great,
> it's just the day-to-day thing which makes me question this position. There
> would be the possibility of moving within the company either to a group
> leader position (within 2-3 years - something I want) or moving to another
> site after 1 year.
>
> My background is in surface science with a heavy emphasis on polymers. I am
> currently workin in product development.
>
> Any thoughts?
>
>
Many people in analytical chemistry have degrees in other fields. When I was in the Analytical Chemistry Division of the
National Bureau of Standards (1957-1969), I noticed that about half of the Division staff had degrees in physics. My Ph.D.
is in physical chemistry.

What I enjoyed most in analytical chemistry was that it is about problem solving. And the problems may have large financial
consequences; for example when the production process has stopped giving the usual quality of product. To do the job well,
you should have a diversity of interests, a willingness to learn new things, and the ability to apply your knowledge in new
situations. It was my practice, when someone brought in a sample to be analyzed, to ask some questions about the reason he
wanted the analysis done. I remember a couple of times when I was able to solve a problem without having to do an analysis,
by applying my knowledge of a related topic.

If that kind of challenge appeals to you, take the opportunity.