Computational chemist

Computational chemists work at a two-way interface between chemistry and quantum computing. Some quantum technologies require us to know how different chemicals interact with each other in order to control their behaviour. Computational chemists use computers to help us understand this behaviour. At the same time, many chemists are exploring quantum computing to tackle more difficult chemical problems which have wide applications. These include chemical simulation for the finding new medicines, catalyst optimisation for making better fertilisers, and battery materials for more effective energy storage. All of these things are hard problems to learn about with normal computers and we may be able to do better with quantum computers.

Degree in chemistry, physics, materials science or related fields, typically followed by a master’s or PhD in computational or theoretical chemistry. Experience with simulation software and programming is beneficial.

AstraZeneca