 Chemezov graduated with honours from Irkutsk Institute of National Economy (presently Baikal State University of Economics and Law) in 1975 and then completed his postgraduate education at the Military Academy of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Russia.Chemezov has a doctorate in economics and is also a professor and full member of the Military Academy.At the Irkutsk Scientific and Research Institute of Rare and Nonferrous Metals, Chemezov worked as an engineer, a research associate, and chief laboratory assistant.