Chemists

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 1 (8%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 8 (62%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 4 (31%)

• Write technical papers or reports or prepare standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, or tests.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Analyze organic or inorganic compounds to determine chemical or physical properties, composition, structure, relationships, or reactions, using chromatography, spectroscopy, or spectrophotometry techniques.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Evaluate laboratory safety procedures to ensure compliance with standards or to make improvements as needed.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Compile and analyze test information to determine process or equipment operating efficiency or to diagnose malfunctions.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Confer with scientists or engineers to conduct analyses of research projects, interpret test results, or develop nonstandard tests.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Develop, improve, or customize products, equipment, formulas, processes, or analytical methods.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Direct, coordinate, or advise personnel in test procedures for analyzing components or physical properties of materials.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Purchase laboratory supplies, such as chemicals, when supplies are low or near their expiration date.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Study effects of various methods of processing, preserving, or packaging on composition or properties of foods.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Conduct quality control tests.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Maintain laboratory instruments to ensure proper working order and troubleshoot malfunctions when needed.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Prepare test solutions, compounds, or reagents for laboratory personnel to conduct tests.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Induce changes in composition of substances by introducing heat, light, energy, or chemical catalysts for quantitative or qualitative analysis.Little or no AI speed-up · core task