Chemical Forums

Specialty Chemistry Forums => Chemical Education and Careers => Topic started by: MusicAtom on August 20, 2010, 11:20:25 AM

Title: Research careers in Industry, what degree?
Post by: MusicAtom on August 20, 2010, 11:20:25 AM

I'm a sophomore undecided science major. I'm very interested in Instrument design and Optics. I have *no* desire to work in Academia, but research is a strong interest of mine. I was first thinking of doing a Physics degree but there's not enough lab work. I really like Chemistry labs and am planning on doing a Chemistry major with a Physics minor, maybe even take some EE classes too.

Do you need a PhD to do research in Industry? All my professors have said yes to that question, although none of them have worked a day in Industry..

Thanks.

Title: Re: Research careers in Industry, what degree?
Post by: Doc Oc on August 20, 2010, 12:19:06 PM

Your professors don't know what they're talking about or are trying to steer you to grad school.  I worked for 4 years in the biotech/pharma industry with a BS.  Right now it's easier to get a job in those industries with a BS or MS than with a Ph.D.