Career Spotlight

2011 dubbed iNTeRNATiONAl YeAR Of CheMisTRY

Thanks to an initiative between IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) and UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientifi c, and Cultural Organization), 2011 has been dubbed the International Year of Chemistry. The year of celebrations falls on the 100th anniversary of Madame Marie Curie’s Nobel Prize win, as well as the founding on the International Association of Chemical Societies.

Canada’s celebrations will include emphasis on important discoveries made by Canadian chemists, which include how to produce insulin for treating diabetes, how to extract canola oil from an inedible planet, and how to detect fi ngerprints at crime scenes. There are also a series of local and national events being hosted to celebrate the International Year of Chemistry such as a YouTube contest; a cross-country speaking tour by Joe Schwarcz, author, radio host and director of McGill University’s Offi ce for Science and Society; the Science Rendezvous, a day-long program where scientists will interact with members of the public in malls, coffee shops and libraries; and National Chemistry Week, where businesses, elementary schools, colleges and universities will hold lectures, lab tours and competitions to spark interest in chemistry.

“The International Year of Chemistry is a global celebration, so we wanted to highlight the role that Canadian chemistry has played in improving the well-being of people around the world,” said David Dolphin, chair of the Chemical Institute of Canada’s IYC organizing committee.

The global festivities will kick off at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, with a two-day ceremony, January 27th to 28th which will feature prominent scientists from around the world, plus debates on global trends and perspectives in chemistry.

CAReeR sPOTlighT

Bio-economy Career Profi le

Compiled by BioTalent Canada

Position: Manufacturing Chemist Salary Range: $60,000 to $80,000 per year

What I do:

My day-to-day work includes overseeing all duties connected to the chemical process. I ensure that the quality of the product is in compliance with the customer specifi cations’ requirements. My position is part analysis and development in the laboratory, and part management of technicians and operators related to the production processes. I spend about 60 per cent of my day in the laboratory and 40 per cent on the manufacturing fl oor.

What education and skills do candidates need for this position?

I have a Masters of Chemistry Degree, majoring in Chemical Science. I have also upgraded my skills in Canada in the pharmaceuticals industry as an Analytical Chemist. My position requires a strong background in chemistry and good communication skills to explain basic chemistry to the technicians. The safe use of chemicals in the manufacturing process is an ongoing issue for my company. As a Manufacturing Chemist, you also need good computer skills, as there is a lot of paperwork and document writing. To get a job in the industry, I would encourage you to get as much background in chemistry as you can. When entering the workforce, look around for opportunities to gain knowledge of industries with which you are unfamiliar and work hard at lifelong learning.

What are the best parts of your job?

I fi nd my work very interesting. I have gained great understanding about an industry of which I had no practical prior knowledge. Being a recent immigrant, I was unsure of how my skills and abilities would translate in Canada. Since working for Anod-Tech, I realize that my background and knowledge was acceptable, and my skills are in demand in Canada.

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