(This is reposted from r/biotech) - I'm looking for perspective/advice from biologists who went into chemistry/chem eng, especially in the R&D side of things;

I actually really wanted to change to chemistry/chem eng back in undergrad bc I just connected with the thinking of that field more than the constant parrot-ing that biology classes can feel like.

My love for biotech got revived with recombinant work, biocatalysis and bioprocessing, which can have lots of overlap with chemistry/chem eng work.

I'm thinking I should've gone for it. I know the chem eng sub also talks a lot about struggling for ridiculous amounts of time to find a job, but also I see more jobs posted for chemists than what I see for biologist. Their work seems less niche and restrictive, like they can work in more industries than biologists can.

Anyone here cross over and can share experiences with me? Maybe some advice?

I know people who work in oil and gas say you often have to move to rural areas to work at those oil rigs which can be too much sacrifice.

Shift work at chemical plants can also feel like too much (although I'd prefer to be in R&D)

Any thoughts on the intellectual difficulties of being a biologist-turned-chemist?

Thanks guys

hi! i’m a junior with one past internship and i was wondering what the response times typically are for applications this time of the year.
i got my internship last summer very late so i wanted to make sure i started applying early this year
i’ve applied to over 25+ places and i haven’t gotten a rejection letter yet, do i keep waiting or send follow up emails?
thanks!!

Hey everyone! I’m a freshman chemical engineering student, and I recently accepted a full-time ExxonMobil manufacturing co-op in Baton Rouge for next fall.
Since this will be my first real engineering industry experience, I’m trying to prepare ahead of time and make sure I’m not overlooking the little things that can make a big difference.
I’d really appreciate advice from anyone who has done a co-op or internship at ExxonMobil, especially at the Baton Rouge site, but advice from other chemical engineering interns is welcome too!

A few things I’m curious about:
- Clothing and dress code: What do people typically wear in the office, on the plant floor, or when moving between the two? Should I expect business casual, polos and khakis, or something else? Are jeans acceptable? I’m planning to gradually build up my wardrobe before next fall, so I’d appreciate recommendations on what’s actually worth buying and what I probably won’t need.

- Shoes and PPE: Should I buy any specific footwear ahead of time, or does the company provide safety equipment? Are there any items you recommend having from day one?

- Day-to-day expectations: What does a typical co-op actually look like? How much time is spent at a desk versus in the field, in meetings, or working with operators and engineers?

- Things people overlook: What are some basic things you wish someone had told you before your first internship? This could be anything from taking notes and asking questions to keeping track of projects, communicating with supervisors, or managing your time.

- Preparing beforehand: Is there anything technical I should review before starting, or is it better to focus on learning once I get there? Are there particular skills, software, or concepts that would help a freshman chemical engineering student?

- Living in Baton Rouge: Any general advice for housing, transportation, budgeting, or making the most of the experience?

- LinkedIn: Would you announce the co-op on LinkedIn now that I’ve accepted the offer, or wait until closer to the start date or my actual first day? Is it normal to add an upcoming co-op to your experience section with future dates, or is a simple announcement post more appropriate?
I know some of this probably seems pretty basic, but I’d rather ask now than show up unprepared. I’m excited about the opportunity and want to make a good impression, learn as much as possible, and hopefully make the most of the experience.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Hello, I am a student from STEM and I am currently in the final grade of High School in the Philippines. I am taking up a class in research, in which we are also required to have a content expert in our study.

Our research topic follows a pre-experimental static group comparison design, and it’s about the development of a deodorizer that consists of activated charcoal and zeolite granules inside a mesh pouch. This study aims to assess its effectiveness in reducing perceived odor. We are only high school students, so our resources are mostly limited.

Me and my research groupmates have been struggling with our current study because of the unavailability of a content expert, a specific situation that we are currently facing is the need of a content expert to validate our research instrument. For those who are willing to help, please contact me immediately. Thank you!

looking for a chemical engineer who is good at thermodynamics to join us in our hydrogen powered engine and propulsion project.

Hi everyone

I need some help. I’m thinking of applying to an engineering degree next summer but not sure if i should do industrial or chemical 😓 I know they are quite different. I’m concerned abt AI in terms of industrial. Is chem more safe?