Many scientists, particularly chemists, have careers away from a lab bench or professorial chair — but they are still scientists (Nature 500, 369; 2013). As a mentor on careers for chemistry graduates (see go.nature.com/ajx23f), I consider myself a chemist for life.

Our training and experience mean that we are equipped to deal with the scientific issues that frequently crop up in alternative careers. This is true for scientists who have become teachers, information specialists, patent experts and practitioners, writers and consultants, to name but a few such alternatives. We continue to understand scientific terminology, to be adept at problem-solving and to think critically about scientific matters.

This could be one reason why the American Chemical Society in Washington DC recommends alternative careers in addition to more traditional paths (see go.nature.com/vs75vj).