Chemistry Overview

	B.S. - Chemistry, Manchester College
	Analytical Chemist
	"While in school, participate in a research project if you can, and remember that a co-op experience will give a flavor of what it is really like in the working world."

"I am in the Pharmaceutical Sciences Division within Lilly Research Laboratories. The Division is organized into work teams consisting of both analytical and formulation chemists who focus on early development of pharmaceutical compounds. My work involves potential new drugs for humans that have been developed by the discovery research area. My team is self-directed. I provide analytical development support for new pharmaceutical candidates and develop and validate methods (i.e., potency, related substances, and residual solvents) for both the bulk drug and the formulated product. I also interact with areas of the company such as toxicology, medical, and process R&D. Instrumentation such as HPLC and GC are used to characterize lots for toxicology and/or clinical studies. I also evaluate the stability of the compound by subjecting it to such conditions as high temperature, humidity, and light. In general, I coordinate all the analytical activities and write up the data to support a regulatory submission. My other responsibilities include supervising other chemists, recruiting/interviewing job candidates, and serving as a corporate research guide.

A strong background in analytical chemistry with emphasis on chromatographic techniques and instrumentation is essential for job preparation. In addition, transferable skills in dimensions such as communication, interpersonal relations, leadership, and planning/organization are important. While in school, participate in a research project if you can, and remember that a co-op experience will give a flavor of what it is really like in the working world."