Students who are majoring in chemistry can become active in the research and development component of drug and product development. Chemistry internships at major drug makers are available, and these programs offer students an ability to contribute to the emergence of new medicines and other items. The types of internships available range from lab settings to behind-the-scenes research and development.
Some of the largest drug development companies in the world offer attractive conditions to aspiring interns, including paid programs that are available throughout the year. Flexible chemistry internships may be best for students who are graduating a semester late or early and who are available to complete the program outside of the typical summer intern months. There are chemistry internships that are paid and others that provide college credit. Students should appear eager but also sensible about the financial terms so that there are no disappointing surprises once the internship is underway.
Chemistry students often continue to achieve postgraduate degrees. There are chemistry internships designed for students who are earning masters of business administration (MBA) degrees. Students can become entrenched in projects alongside key staff members across various departments, including accounting, marketing, and health for animals. Certain of these chemistry internships take place overseas, and students who are interested in pursuing international opportunities should possess the appropriate language skills and necessary work documents before applying. Others are tailored for students at the doctoral level.
Those selected for chemistry internships may work in lab settings where prescription and over-the-counter drugs are developed. Interns might be involved with studying organic compounds, a function of organic chemistry. Employers typically assign interns to mentors or supervisors to work with, and these individuals often dictate the pace and depth of students' experiences. Student interns might contribute to lab work or even with product testing and marketing.
Drug development isn't the only career choice for chemistry majors. Product development is another area where chemists are employed and chemistry internships can be found. Consumer staple companies that make products such as detergent and toothpaste hire chemists to develop formulas and ingredients that make these items effective.
To find the best chemistry internships, students may want to enroll in placement programs. The organizations are designed to match individuals with the best internship programs based on students' interests and preparation. Employers pay for these services, and a benefit to students is bypassing potential companies that are not currently hiring interns.