Top 10 Research Chemist Certifications

Certifications are important for research chemists in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for. Certification shows that the chemist has taken the time to hone their skills and is committed to continuing learning. In addition, certifications can provide recognition from industry experts or organizations, which can help differentiate the chemist’s qualifications among other applicants. Certifications also provide a way for employers to verify that the chemist has the necessary skills and experience to perform their job successfully.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Research Chemists and explain how they can help enhance a research chemist's career.

What are Research Chemist Certifications?

Research chemist certification is a type of professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to work as a research chemist. This certification is offered by various organizations, including the American Chemical Society (ACS). It provides recognition for individuals who have completed advanced studies in chemistry and demonstrates their commitment to continuing professional development.

The certification is designed to ensure that research chemists possess sufficient knowledge and experience to conduct independent research in various fields of chemistry. To obtain this certification, candidates must meet certain requirements, such as completing a minimum number of hours of approved coursework or passing an intensive exam. Certification also requires the completion of periodic continuing education courses to maintain the validity of the credential.

Research chemist certification can be beneficial in several ways. First, it demonstrates a high level of expertise in the field and can make job applicants more attractive to potential employers. Additionally, certified research chemists may be eligible for higher salaries than those without the credential. Finally, having this credential can open up new opportunities for advancement within a company or organization.

Pro Tip: To become certified as a research chemist, you should look into obtaining a professional certification from an accredited organization that is recognized in your field. This will help demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the area of research chemistry and can open up opportunities for career advancement.

Related: What does a Research Chemist do?

Top 10 Research Chemist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Research Chemists today.

1. American Chemical Society Certified Research Chemist

American Chemical Society Certified Research Chemist (ACS-CRC) is a professional certification program offered by the American Chemical Society (ACS). The program provides recognition to chemists who have demonstrated expertise and experience in research, development, and/or production of chemicals.

To become an ACS-CRC, an individual must meet the following criteria:

• Have a minimum of five years of full-time research experience in a chemical field;
• Have a doctoral degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university;
• Be currently employed as a research chemist; and
• Pass the ACS-CRC examination.

The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral portion. The written portion covers topics such as organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, biochemistry, and general chemical principles. The oral portion tests knowledge on specific areas of research such as reaction kinetics and thermodynamics. Both portions must be passed in order to receive certification.

It typically takes six months to one year to complete the entire certification process. To get started, individuals must submit an application form to the ACS along with transcripts from their educational institution(s), proof of current employment in a chemical field, and payment for the application fee ($125 for members/$150 for nonmembers). Once approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam. Upon successful completion of both portions of the exam, applicants will receive their certificate from the ACS.

The cost for taking the ACS-CRC exam is $500 for members/$600 for nonmembers plus any applicable taxes or fees.

2. Royal Society of Chemistry Research Chemist Certification

The Royal Society of Chemistry Research Chemist Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in research chemistry. It is awarded to individuals who demonstrate a high level of expertise in the field of research chemistry, as well as a commitment to the highest standards of professional practice.

To be eligible for certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in research chemistry, including a minimum of one year conducting independent research. They must also hold an advanced degree in chemistry or related fields, such as biochemistry or chemical engineering.

The certification process typically takes between six and twelve months to complete. Applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other relevant materials. The Royal Society then evaluates the application and conducts an interview with the applicant before making a decision on whether or not to award certification.

The cost of obtaining the Royal Society's Research Chemist Certification varies depending on the country where the applicant resides. In general, it costs around £200-£400 (approximately $250-500 USD). This fee covers the cost of processing the application and conducting the interview.

Once certified, individuals are entitled to use the title “Research Chemist” after their name and can access exclusive benefits such as discounts on publications, events, and conferences organized by the Royal Society.

3. American Association of Clinical Chemistry Research Chemist Certification

The American Association of Clinical Chemistry (AACC) Research Chemist Certification is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize the professional achievements of research chemists in the field of clinical chemistry. The certification is intended to demonstrate that a research chemist has achieved a high level of proficiency and knowledge in the field.

To become certified, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements, including at least five years of experience working as a research chemist in clinical chemistry and have completed at least two years of higher education in an accredited college or university. Additionally, applicants must pass both written and practical exams administered by AACC.

The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as biochemistry, immunoassay, chromatography, mass spectrometry, and other related areas. The practical exam requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to perform laboratory techniques such as sample preparation, instrument calibration and maintenance, data analysis, quality control procedures, and more.

The process typically takes three to six months from start to finish. The cost for certification varies depending on the type of membership you have with AACC; non-members pay $400 for the application fee plus $200 for each exam taken while members pay $300 for the application fee plus $150 for each exam taken.

4. National Institute for Science and Technology Certified Research Chemist

The National Institute for Science and Technology (NIST) Certified Research Chemist (CRC) is a certification program that recognizes the professional competency of research chemists in the United States. The CRC is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the areas of chemistry, chemical engineering, biochemistry, and related fields.

In order to become a NIST Certified Research Chemist, an individual must meet certain criteria. This includes having a minimum of five years of experience in research-related activities; completion of an accredited master’s degree or higher in chemistry or a related field; and passing an examination administered by NIST.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, and other related topics. The exam is offered twice per year at various locations throughout the United States.

The cost for taking the exam is $250USD for members of NIST and $500USD for non-members. It typically takes several months to prepare for the exam depending on one’s level of knowledge and experience. Once an individual has passed the exam they will receive their certification from NIST which will be valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

5. International Association of Analytical Chemistry Research Chemist Certification

The International Association of Analytical Chemistry (IAAC) Research Chemist Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of analytical chemists in the field of research. The IAAC Research Chemist Certification is a voluntary program that provides recognition for individuals who demonstrate a high level of competency in their chosen area of research.

To obtain this certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in research-related activities, such as laboratory work, data analysis, or teaching. In addition, they must pass an examination that covers topics such as analytical chemistry principles, instrumentation and techniques, data interpretation and analysis, and quality assurance/control. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost to apply for the IAAC Research Chemist Certification is $350 USD. Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will receive their certificate within two weeks. The IAAC also offers continuing education courses to help maintain certification status.

Overall, obtaining the IAAC Research Chemist Certification is an excellent way to demonstrate proficiency in analytical chemistry research and can open up new opportunities for career advancement.

6. National Council for Scientific and Technical Qualifications Certified Research Chemist

The National Council for Scientific and Technical Qualifications (NCSTQ) Certified Research Chemist is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise of research chemists in areas such as analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, biochemistry, and other related fields. The certification is awarded by the NCSTQ after successful completion of an examination that tests knowledge in the various areas of research chemistry.

The certification process typically takes approximately six months to complete. To become certified, applicants must first submit an application to the NCSTQ along with a fee. Once accepted into the program, applicants will be required to take a comprehensive written exam that covers topics such as general and organic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, and laboratory techniques. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and essay questions. After passing the exam with a score of at least 70%, applicants will receive their certification from the NCSTQ.

The cost for obtaining the NCSTQ Certified Research Chemist certification varies depending on location but generally ranges from $300-$500 USD.

7. Institute of Food Technologists Certified Research Chemist

The Institute of Food Technologists Certified Research Chemist (IFTRC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the field of food science. The IFTRC is administered by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), an international, non-profit scientific society dedicated to advancing the science of food.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements and pass a comprehensive exam. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in food science or related field, plus three years of relevant experience in research and development or quality assurance. Applicants must also submit an application form and fee.

The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral portion. The written portion consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as food chemistry, microbiology, nutrition, sensory analysis, packaging, safety, product development, process control, regulations and more. The oral portion consists of an interview with a panel of IFT-certified professionals who will assess the applicant’s knowledge and skills related to food science research.

In order to receive certification as an IFTRC Research Chemist, applicants must successfully complete both portions of the exam within two years from the date they applied for certification. It typically takes between four and six months to prepare for the exam after submitting an application form and fee.

The cost for taking the IFTRC certification exam is $500 USD ($400 USD if you are an IFT member). This fee includes access to study materials and practice exams as well as the actual examination fees.

8. European Federation of Analytical Chemistry Certificated Research Chemist

The European Federation of Analytical Chemistry Certificated Research Chemist (EFAC-CRC) is a professional certification program offered by the European Federation of Analytical Chemistry (EFAC). The EFAC-CRC is designed to recognize and reward excellence in research chemistry. It is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a high level of competence and experience in the field of analytical chemistry.

To obtain the EFAC-CRC, applicants must meet certain requirements, such as having a minimum of five years' experience in research chemistry, and having completed at least one significant research project within the last two years. Applicants must also demonstrate knowledge and expertise in analytical techniques, instrumentation, data interpretation, report writing, and other related topics.

The process for obtaining the EFAC-CRC typically takes between six months to one year. To begin the process, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as educational qualifications and work experience details. Once accepted into the program, applicants are required to complete a written examination that covers topics such as analytical techniques, instrumentation, data interpretation, report writing and other related topics. Upon successful completion of this exam, applicants will receive their certificate from EFAC.

The cost for obtaining the EFAC-CRC varies depending on country and region but typically ranges from €200 to €500 or more.

9. American Board of Forensic Toxicology Certified Research Chemist

The American Board of Forensic Toxicology Certified Research Chemist (ABFT-CRC) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to conduct research in the field of forensic toxicology. This certification is administered by the American Board of Forensic Toxicology (ABFT), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the practice of forensic toxicology.

To become certified as an ABFT-CRC, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having a doctoral degree in chemistry or related field from an accredited institution and at least three years of experience in research involving forensic toxicology. Applicants must also submit a written application and pass a comprehensive exam. The exam consists of two parts: a written section and an oral section.

The cost for the ABFT-CRC certification varies depending on the applicant's qualifications and experience. Generally, applicants can expect to pay between $200-$400 for their application fee and exam fees. The total cost may also include additional fees such as travel expenses or other miscellaneous costs associated with taking the exam.

In most cases, it takes between six months to one year to complete all requirements for the ABFT-CRC certification. This includes completing all required paperwork, studying for and taking the exam, and submitting any additional documentation that may be required by ABFT. Once all requirements are met and passed, applicants will receive their official certificate from ABFT within four weeks after passing the exam.

10. Association of Official Analytical Chemists Certified Research Chemist

The Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) Certified Research Chemist (CRC) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of analytical chemists in research and development. It is an internationally recognized credential that is designed to demonstrate expertise in the field of analytical chemistry.

To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of five years' experience in research and development within the field of analytical chemistry. They must also pass an AOAC-approved examination that covers topics such as sampling techniques, instrumental analysis, quality assurance/control, statistical methods, and laboratory safety. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to apply for the certification, applicants must submit an application form along with their resume or CV detailing their relevant experience and education. Once approved, they will be required to pay a fee for the examination which varies depending on the country where it is taken. In the United States, this fee is $450 USD; however, fees may vary in other countries.

Once they have successfully passed the exam, they will receive their official AOAC Certified Research Chemist certificate which can be used to demonstrate their expertise in analytical chemistry and help them stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions.

Do You Really Need a Research Chemist Certificate?

A research chemist certificate can be a valuable asset for those interested in pursuing a career in the chemical sciences. With this certification, an individual will be able to demonstrate their knowledge of the field and their commitment to staying current with the latest developments in chemical research. In addition, having a certificate may make one more attractive for employment opportunities as employers are often interested in hiring individuals who have taken the time and effort to become certified.

However, it is important to note that not all positions require a research chemist certificate. Depending on the job, employers may prefer candidates with specific degrees or certifications related to their field of study. For example, if you are looking for a position as a laboratory technician, you may not need such a certification but rather a degree in chemistry or biology. Therefore, it is important to assess your own situation before deciding whether or not to pursue certification as a research chemist.

If you plan on continuing your education and eventually pursuing advanced studies or specializing in chemical research, then obtaining a research chemist certificate can be beneficial and even necessary in some cases. It is also important to consider what type of job opportunities you are applying for now and how that might change over time. If your current job prospects do not require certification but could potentially lead to higher-level roles down the road that do require such credentials, then obtaining one could help open up future possibilities.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a research chemist certificate will depend on your personal goals and needs as well as the industry requirements for certain positions. If it makes sense for your career path and desired job opportunities, then taking the time and effort required to obtain this credential can prove beneficial both now and into the future.

Related: Research Chemist Resume Examples

FAQs About Research Chemist Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a research chemist?

A: Generally, a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field is required for entry-level positions in research chemistry. Some employers may require additional certifications or licenses.

2. Is certification necessary to work as a research chemist?

A: Certification is not necessary, but it can be beneficial for career advancement and job opportunities. It is important to check with local regulations and employers to see which certifications are required in your area.

3. How do I become certified as a research chemist?

A: To become certified as a research chemist, you must pass an exam administered by the American Chemical Society (ACS). The ACS also offers continuing education courses and other resources that can help you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the field.

4. What topics are covered in the research chemist certification exam?

A: The exam covers topics such as chemical structure, properties of matter, chemical reactions, laboratory techniques, and safety procedures. You should also be familiar with basic statistics and scientific writing skills before taking the exam.

5. How long does it take to get certified as a research chemist?

A: It typically takes at least two years of study and practice before being able to pass the certification exam. However, this timeline can vary depending on your current level of knowledge and experience in the field.