Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Chemistry Professor is an academic educator and researcher specializing in the science of chemistry. They are responsible for teaching chemistry courses, conducting research, and guiding students in their academic and scientific pursuits.
Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 3.5% (average)
Annual job openings: 1,900
Direct AI exposure: 24% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 57% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $93K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $58K per year | $68K per year | $93K per year | $127K per year | $172K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $42K above the national average. | ||||
Chemistry Professors work primarily in colleges and universities, where they teach in classrooms and laboratories. Their environment also includes offices for research and administrative tasks, and they may spend time in specialized research facilities or collaborating with industry professionals.
Chemistry Professors are integral to the advancement of scientific knowledge in the field of chemistry. They are responsible for educating the next generation of chemists, developing coursework, and providing hands-on laboratory experiences. Professors need to stay abreast of the latest scientific discoveries and technological advancements in chemistry to provide a relevant and robust educational experience.
Their role extends beyond teaching to include conducting original research. This research can contribute to significant advancements in areas like pharmaceuticals, materials science, and environmental chemistry. Publishing findings in scientific journals and obtaining grants for research projects are key aspects of their professional responsibilities.
In addition to these roles, Chemistry Professors participate in academic service, such as curriculum development, academic advising, and serving on university committees. They may also engage in public outreach or consulting work, applying their expertise to real-world problems and collaborations with the scientific community.
To become a Chemistry Professor, a Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related field is typically required, which involves about 8-10 years of post-secondary education, including undergraduate and graduate studies.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
