Materials Scientists
Overview
Materials scientists research and analyze the chemical properties of different substances to create new materials and improve existing products. They work in modern laboratories using advanced equipment to test materials, ensure they meet safety standards, and develop everything from stronger metals to better plastics. These scientists collaborate closely with engineers and other researchers, directing lab technicians while conducting experiments and writing detailed reports about their discoveries. A career in materials science typically requires a bachelor's degree in chemistry, materials science, or engineering, with many opportunities for hybrid work and creative problem-solving.
Did you know?
A bachelor's degree in materials engineering, materials science, or a related engineering field is typically required, with many positions preferring candidates from ABET-accredited programs.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$104,326.67 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Management of Material Resources
Key Responsibilities
- Plan laboratory experiments to confirm feasibility of processes and techniques used in the production of materials with special characteristics.
- Visit suppliers of materials or users of products to gather specific information.
- Test metals to determine conformance to specifications of mechanical strength, strength-weight ratio, ductility, magnetic and electrical properties, and resistance to abrasion, corrosion, heat, and cold.
- Recommend materials for reliable performance in various environments.
- Write research papers for publication in scientific journals.
- Confer with customers to determine how to tailor materials to their needs.
- Prepare reports, manuscripts, proposals, and technical manuals for use by other scientists and requestors, such as sponsors and customers.
- Test individual parts and products to ensure that manufacturer and governmental quality and safety standards are met.
- Conduct research on the structures and properties of materials, such as metals, alloys, polymers, and ceramics, to obtain information that could be used to develop new products or enhance existing ones.
- Devise testing methods to evaluate the effects of various conditions on particular materials.
- Supervise and monitor production processes to ensure efficient use of equipment, timely changes to specifications, and project completion within time frame and budget.
- Perform experiments and computer modeling to study the nature, structure, and physical and chemical properties of metals and their alloys, and their responses to applied forces.
- Teach in colleges and universities.
- Research methods of processing, forming, and firing materials to develop such products as ceramic dental fillings, unbreakable dinner plates, and telescope lenses.
- Test material samples for tolerance under tension, compression, and shear to determine the cause of metal failures.
- Determine ways to strengthen or combine materials or develop new materials with new or specific properties for use in a variety of products and applications.
Career Considerations
Educational Requirements
A bachelor's degree in materials engineering, materials science, or a related engineering field is typically required, with many positions preferring candidates from ABET-accredited programs.
Industry Diversity
Material engineers in the US work across diverse sectors including aerospace, automotive, electronics, biomedical devices, and renewable energy, offering varied career paths and specialization opportunities.
Professional Licensing
While not always required, obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license can enhance career prospects, especially for roles involving public safety or consulting work.