Chemical pathologists

Chemical pathologists are specialists who investigate diseases in order to help identify them and recommend treatment. More specifically, they investigate the biochemical origins of illnesses. There is a particular emphasis upon metabolic viruses. No day is ever the same for a chemical pathologist, as the amount of diseases out there is extensive. What’s more, they will deal with a wide range of medical and scientific professionals in order to maintain a network of support for one another.

Conditions they may need to investigate include diabetes, hypertension, bone diseases and various others. This is a discipline in which you will need to have an excellent knowledge of both the scientific and medical disciplines. Chemical pathologists will typically work in laboratories, whether this is in a clinic or hospital. They may work on their own or as part of a team of pathologists. Chemical pathologists are unlikely to need to be on call, but they may need to be available for queries over the phone.

Work activities

Typical work activities a chemical pathologist would need to partake in each day include:

  • Work as part of a medical team.
  • Research a variety of diseases, with a particular emphasis upon their origins and processes.
  • Work in a laboratory, whether in a hospital or private clinic.
  • Discuss research projects with students and trainees.
  • Maintain a support group of medical and scientific professionals.
  • Conduct routine testing.
  • Deal with new viruses that you have never seen before.
  • Ensure that the laboratories clinic is in good working order and working to a high standard.
  • Advise medical professionals upon the medical treatment of patients according to the research you have conducted.
  • Work with out-patients and in clinics.
  • Study new testing methods and discuss them with other professionals.

Essential skills

  • Extensive knowledge of and an aptitude for the sciences and medicine.
  • Management skills.
  • Able to maintain a theoretical and professional manner.
  • Organised manner.
  • Able to work as an individual and as part of a team.
  • Ability to discuss your workings with other colleagues.
  • Understanding of your strengths and limitations.
  • Not merely able to conduct scientific research but also able to deal with patients face-to-face.
  • Maintain a desire to keep up-to-date with any new developments in the investigation of viruses, and also the treatment of patients.
  • Leadership skills.
  • Good communication skills.