At reservoirs in Bangladesh, chemists are hard at work purifying local water supplies. These experts use filters to remove arsenic from the reservoirs, creating a potable water supply for nearby residents. Many of these experts are affiliated with (1) Chemists Without Borders (CWB). CWB is an organization that provides assistance for crucial human health issues such as clean water. Operating not only in Bangladesh but also in the United States and other nations, CWB relies on the efforts of trained, professional chemists, as well as those of (2) volunteers’ interested in entering the field.

Professional chemists at CWB seek out projects that can provide help directly to populations in need. Their work in (3) Bangladesh involves removing toxins, from the drinking water, primarily through water purification. CWB staff members create and give arsenic testing kits to Bangladeshi locals and work with interpreters to (4) dissipate information and instructions. (5) CWB also provides education about medicine, vaccines, and environmental sustainability.

(6) CWB also works with volunteers who are rigorously trained chemists. While some volunteers are concerned citizens who want to assist with public education (7) campaigns. Others hold actual chemistry training. The education background for water chemists is varied but includes many disciplines, including microbiology and geology. Students explore these related fields to develop a more comprehensive view of the variables that affect water quality. (8) They might study, for example, the microorganisms living in water, or the effects of particular rocks and soil on water supplies. Volunteers with a rich background in chemistry also help the CWB professionals with water testing and supply kit creation. This practical experience is an excellent opportunity for prospective water chemists to gain insights into what the job entails. 

(9) A career in water chemistry leading to exciting travel and teaching opportunities, and working to de- contaminate water supplies around the world is a rewarding experience for those who undertake it. Also worth noting is the fact that demand for skilled water chemists (10) are on the rise. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs in this field is expected to grow 8 percent by 2022. (11) Looking beyond that, the need for water chemists will likely continue to grow to meet the increasing water demands of our burgeoning global population.