Are you interested in finding out how science can influence policy? 
 
We are funding a fantastic opportunity for RSC members to spend three months working in the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST), getting to grips with explaining scientific research to policy makers in Westminster and learning more about the policy making process.
 
For more details of how to apply for this scheme, visit http://www.rsc.org/science-activities/parliament/westminster-fellowship-scheme/how-to-apply.asp.  The deadline for applications is 25^th May, so get writing!

It's a rainy day in London and I am here to do three things:

1. have consultations with members (so far 3 are booked in)
2. write my Chemistry World article - which is focusing on getting the most out of your professional body
3. catching up on all the things I should have done but haven't because I have been out of the office running careers hubs...which brings me nicely to ChemCareers 2012 more...

Free registration for ChemCareers 2012 (link to http://my.rsc.org/chemcareers)
Explore what options are available in chemistry by taking part in this year’s RSC careers fair, ChemCareers 2012, (link to http://my.rsc.org/chemcareers) which will take place from 29 - 30 May.
ChemCareers gives you an opportunity to discover the huge range of career options available, learn how to market yourself to employers, seek expert advice on career planning and investigate further study options. Best of all, registration is free.
As an online event, ChemCareers makes use of a wide range of multimedia tools to provide delegates with a dynamic and interactive experience. These include:

• videos
• online presentations and webinars
• a wealth of downloadable information
• live chat sessions

Register for ChemCareers 2012, (link to http://my.rsc.org/chemcareers) it is free and you can also sign up to the ChemCareers MyRSC group, to keep up to date with the programme of events planned for 2012.

Imagine the scene: you have seen a job you'd like, you put all the research work in and applied for it and got an interview. Congratulations! It's the night before the interview and you have practiced all of your scenarios so that you are confident to answer any question that is thrown at you. Morning comes slowly after a nervous night and you skim your wardrobe for the perfect interview attire......and you're off. more...

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Whilst many people choose to go to university to develop their skills, there is another way: apprenticeships. They are available in all sectors and industries and having had a quick look online, for most chemistry positions you will find them under ‘engineering’ where there are positions for chemists in nuclear, food, ceramics, manufacturing as well as laboratory and science technician posts available. There are some companies who have apprenticeship schemes in chemistry roles such as AstraZeneca, BAE Systems and Unilever to name but a few.
 
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Time is running away with me it seems, not just today but everyday I get more busy. It's probably because I hate being bored and therefore find myself volunteering for this and that, more responsibility here, a new project there. The consequence? Occasionally I drop things....my to-do list sits, uncrossed, unloved and out of date in a pile of paperwork somewhere. more...

I have talked to two people in three days who are looking for a stable career. One is looking for work having been made redundant for the second time in 12 months and the other is a recent graduate in a role who has heard back from their dream job...but it's not a permanent contract. They both asked me: what's the best thing to do? more...

I talk to lots of members who are ready to take the next step and move into a management position or perhaps a more strategic role. The transition to management can be a daunting one, full of learning curves, barriers and challenges to overcome. The big question is: what can you do to make the transition easier? more...

I’m delighted to be joining the RSC Careers team, working alongside Charlie to offer our members careers advice, and to discuss hot topics which may help you on your quest for career success! I’ve been working here at the RSC for nearly two years, gaining experience across various departments, and I’m looking forward to working more directly with our members in my new role.

I will also be working on the RSC Benevolent Fund which offers support and advice to members and their families in times of difficulty. We offer advice on issues such as housing, debt, benefits and in some circumstances we may be able to offer financial support too. If you feel the Fund may be able to help you, please do not hesitate to contact us benfund@rsc.org