Forensic Chemist

Forensic Chemists are specialist scientists who use the theories and practical aspects of chemistry to solve crimes. Their skills can be used in several areas of justice including sports drug testing, toxicology, arson, sexual assault, counterfeiting, food safety, pharmaceuticals, murder investigations, and crimes that involve illicit drugs.

As a Forensic Chemist you could be logging items for testing, screening a laboratory sample for performance-enhancing drugs, running chemical tests to determine the authenticity of a painting, testing tissue samples from a deceased person for toxins, testing a hand swab for gunshot residue, testing the purity of pharmaceutical drugs, writing a report from your laboratory findings to submit to the state police department, or attending an international conference for Forensic Scientists.

To succeed in this career, you’ll need a keen eye for detail, a curious mind that can identify patterns across laboratory tests, a commitment to accuracy and data integrity, and outstanding writing skills.

Future demand Medium
Average yearly income $85,020
Skill level Unknown

How do I become a forensic chemist?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced

Master of Forensic Science
On Campus, Online
18 - 24 months
$0 - $61,000
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forensic Toxicologist Forensic Scientist Crime Scene Investigator
Forensic Chemist Forensic Engineer Forensic Psychologist
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forensic Toxicologist Forensic Scientist Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Chemist Forensic Engineer Forensic Psychologist + 3 more

Bachelor of Forensic Science
On Campus
3 years
$27,942 - $78,000
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forensic Chemist Forensic Toxicologist Research Scientist
Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Analyst Forensic Science Technician
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forensic Chemist Forensic Toxicologist Research Scientist Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Analyst Forensic Science Technician + 3 more

Graduate Certificate in Forensic Science
On Campus, Online
6 months
$0 - $4,472
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Analyst Forensic Toxicologist
Forensic Chemist Forensic Psychologist Forensic Science Technician
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Analyst Forensic Toxicologist Forensic Chemist Forensic Psychologist Forensic Science Technician + 3 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Research and Development Chemist

A Research and Development Chemist designs and tests new products across industries, focusing on safety and effectiveness while working in teams.

Avg yearly income $88,400
Skill level Unknown

Analytical Chemist

Analytical Chemists analyse chemical substances for applications in drug development, food manufacturing, and environmental science, conducting experiments and reporting findings.

Avg yearly income $83,460
Skill level Unknown

Chemist

Chemists analyse the properties and behaviour of chemical substances in various industries, conducting tests and research to support advancements in science and technology.

Avg yearly income $83,200
Skill level Unknown

Biochemist

Biochemists study the chemical structure of living cells and biological processes to improve medical treatments, pharmaceuticals, and food production.

Avg yearly income $84,812
Skill level Unknown

Materials Scientist

A Materials Scientist develops and analyses materials to enhance their properties and performance for various technological applications.

Avg yearly income $84,968
Skill level Unknown

Industrial Chemist

Industrial Chemists utilise chemical compounds to manufacture various products on an industrial scale, focusing on innovation and sustainability in diverse sectors.

Avg yearly income $89,960
Skill level Unknown

Environmental Chemist

Environmental Chemists study and monitor contaminants in the environment, assessing their impact on health and developing remediation strategies.

Avg yearly income $79,976
Skill level Unknown

Medical Chemist

A Medical Chemist researches and develops pharmaceuticals by formulating and testing new drugs, ensuring their safety, efficacy, and compliance.

Avg yearly income $78,000
Skill level Unknown

Ecotoxicologist

Ecotoxicologists study how toxic substances affect the environment and health, advising on pollution prevention and remediation strategies.

Avg yearly income $78,000
Skill level Unknown

Geochemist

A Geochemist studies the chemical properties of rocks and minerals to enhance environmental quality, locate fossil fuels, and advise on conservation practices.

Avg yearly income $73,944
Skill level Unknown

Science Technician

A Science Technician prepares and maintains lab equipment, supports experiments, and ensures safety, playing a vital role in research and education.

Avg yearly income $75,816
Skill level Unknown

Pharmacologist

Pharmacologists study drugs' effects on the body, conduct tests, and recommend new pharmaceutical products based on their findings.

Avg yearly income $88,400
Skill level Unknown

Nanoscientist

A Nanoscientist researches materials at the atomic level to innovate technologies in fields like medicine and electronics through experiments and collaboration.

Avg yearly income $85,800
Skill level Unknown

Medicinal Chemist

A Medicinal Chemist researches and develops pharmaceutical compounds, focusing on their design, synthesis, and safety for treating diseases.

Avg yearly income $79,976
Skill level Unknown

Common questions

How much do Forensic Chemists earn?

Entry-level positions might start around AUD 60,000, while experienced professionals or those in senior roles could earn upwards of AUD 110,000. Increase your earning capacity by joining a professional organisation such as The Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) and pursuing a Master’s degree in a specialist field: DNA analysis, toxicology, microbiology, genetics, biochemistry and others.

Author Image
Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

What are the job opportunities for Forensic Chemists?

There are no clear employment figures for Forensic Chemists working in Australia right now. They are employed by government health departments and police forces, though most Forensic Chemists aspire to work alongside a team of forensic scientists in the Forensic Services Division (Canberra) of the Australian Federal Police.

Author Image
Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

How do I become a Forensic Chemist?

Forensic Chemists in Australia need a strong scientific background in both chemistry and forensic science. Launch your career with a Bachelor of Science (Forensic Chemistry), Bachelor of Science (Medical, Forensic and Analytical Chemistry), or Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) (Honours) followed by post-graduate qualifications. Examples include: Master of Forensic Science (Professional Practice and Research), Master of Science in Analytical Chemical Technologies, and Master of Science (Chemistry).

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023

Author Image
Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

Further reading

How to get qualified and start a career as an occupational therapist or physiotherapist in Australia

23rd December 2024

How to get a job in IT

14th November 2024

Your Guide to a Career in Human-Centred Design

21st October 2024

Courses by location