Medicinal chemists are scientists who design and develop new medications. They study the chemical properties of various compounds to understand how they can be used to treat diseases. Their work often involves synthesizing new molecules and testing their effectiveness and safety. These professionals collaborate with other experts, such as biologists and pharmacologists, to ensure that the drugs they create are both effective and safe for patients. Medicinal chemists play a crucial role in the pharmaceutical industry, contributing to the discovery of new treatments for conditions like cancer and diabetes.