Materials Scientist Job Description
Professionals who research the chemical properties of both natural and man-made materials are referred to as materials scientists. Private corporations, government agencies and universities pay these professionals to research and invent new electronics, aerospace, nuclear power, energy and information processing technologies for a variety of industries. Material scientists play a crucial role in helping our world understand the origins and composition of the materials and solutions we interact with on a daily basis.
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Function
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Materials scientists study the structural components and chemical properties of metals, ceramics, alloys, polymers, lubricants, cosmetics, paints and other natural and synthetic materials. For example, a material scientist may conduct research on pharmaceutical drugs for cancer patients or methods for improving the refining of petrochemical products. Most materials scientists can be found in the research and development groups of companies and government agencies. Unlike chemists, materials scientists use physics, engineering and chemistry principles to uncover the material composition of various products. These professionals also work extensively in laboratories, where they test and examine the physical properties of different matter, substances and chemical compounds.
Education
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As professionals working in an interdisciplinary field, it is common for materials scientists to hold a bachelor's degree in materials science, chemistry, physics or electrical engineering. Research positions are reserved for candidates who hold a master's degree or doctorate. The curriculum for a materials science major may include courses such as mathematics, biological science, analytical and physical chemistry, statistics, computer science and physics. Candidates with a bachelor's degree typically work under senior chemists in research and development departments or perform quality control and analytical testing duties in government agencies and private corporations.
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Skills
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Materials scientists should be versed in computer applications and laboratory equipment used to create computer models, experiments and simulations. Strong oral and written communication skills are needed, as well as the ability to work in teams. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of materials science, some employers prefer candidates with basic knowledge in economics, business or marketing. Materials scientists should be naturally curious, dedicated, detail-oriented and focused. Employers also prefer candidates with leadership abilities and postdoctoral work experience.
Salary
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PayScale.com reports the average salary range for materials scientists as of June 2010 is $66,069 to $97,439 per year. Average bonuses for the position ranged between $2,936 and $9,787. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition shows that materials scientists earned a median salary of $80,230 in May 2008.
Potential
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Materials scientists with a master's degree or doctorate and a diverse background in physics, chemistry and engineering will have the best job opportunities, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies will need to staff their research and development departments with materials scientists who can help them produce more quality products. The labor bureau projects that materials science occupations will increase by 12% between 2008 and 2018.
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References
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