| Gary Bowman is a research and development analytical chemist working for a manufacturing company. |
In which area or areas of science do you work?
I work as a research and development Analytical Chemist with Reckitt Benckiser - a manufacturer of a large range of household products available in supermarkets, eg cleaners, air fresheners, pest control products, dishwashing products and some pharmaceuticals. My role involves testing many of these products for their active ingredients and other parameters.)
What are some of the chemical principles that you use within your work?
Many analytical techniques, mainly chromatography and spectroscopy.
The Analytical Services Group has a function whereby it services Research & Development in Australia. When new products are being developed a lot of testing is involved to ensure that they are safe for consumers, efficacious (which means they do the job they're designed for) and stable. In this development process, the analytical group has an important role in measuring the active ingredients of new products to demonstrate that the product is working and will be successful in the market.
Reckitt Benckiser is the world's leading company in household cleaners as well as being a manufacturer of thousands of other household products. As a result, it is difficult for me to describe all of the chemical processes involved.
When did you first become interested in this career?
In high school I was interested in science and majored in this subject area for the HSC. This followed through into university as well.
How did you first become interested in this career?
I've always been interested in science. My first job as a technician in a university lab and then working for Wattyl as an analytical chemist has focussed my interest in this area.
What education and training do you have to have for your job?
I have tertiary qualifications - a PhD and BSc (Hons).
How long did it take you to get the necessary qualifications?
Note:- a PhD is not necessary for what I do, a BSc would be sufficient, however research qualifications are desirable in R&D, particularly when involved in project management.
How has your career progressed?
At Reckitt Benckiser I am the head of the analytical services group. This is a small, but important group, within R&D and since I have started I have employed a graduate chemist who reports to me. I was able to start at Reckitt Benckiser at a reasonably senior level due to my previous work experience as an analytical chemist with other companies.
What are the tasks that you do in a typical day?
What skills do you use in your job?
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy being a resource that people rely on and trust. I enjoy being able to solve problems that arise in projects and create solutions so the project can progress successfully.
What is the most exciting aspect of your job?
Working for a large multinational company that is successful and that will hopefully provide lots of opportunities in the future.
What has been a highlight of your career?
Travelling to the United Kingdom to work in our Hull lab for a short period.
What do you enjoy least about your job?
Deadlines that are unreasonable. Not having enough time to complete tasks thoroughly.
What are some alternative jobs that you would be qualified for?
Product development and project management.
What are some of the advantages to working in this field?
The products we develop provide benefits to consumers. Developing products that are genuinely better than the competitors.
What are some of the disadvantages to working in this field?
Science is often perceived as a poor cousin to marketing. There is no doubt that marketing drives the direction for the company. This is not unique to Reckitt Benckiser.
How has your work contributed to society?
Yes - We currently have an application for a patent pending.
How has your work benefited society?
Yes - new products with consumer benefits
Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
Still involved with the same team, perhaps with a little more responsibility in managing some projects.
Find out more about Gary's work in research and development and analytical chemistry
If you wish to ask Gary for additional information, you can email UniServe Science and we will contact Gary for you. Make sure you include Gary's name and occupation in the Subject line.
You can find out more about Reckitt Benckiser and their products from
| For further information contact Kaye Placing |
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