Materials scientist

Materials scientists study the qualities, characteristics and uses of materials. They research and develop new materials and improve the use of existing ones. They test how materials react to conditions such as temperature, pressure and stress, and tackle problems such as corrosion and metal fatigue.

Work activities

Materials scientists apply their knowledge to research and develop new materials, and to improve the use of existing ones. They also select the best materials to suit particular tasks. They research, test and develop new products in a wide variety of industries, including metals, polymers, plastics, natural and synthetic fibres, ceramics, glass and sand. They play an important part in the design and development of engineered products and structures, including aircraft, nuclear power plants, civil engineering projects, sports equipment and medical technology, such as artificial limbs.

Some materials scientists specialise in one type of material. For example, there are glass technologists, ceramics technologists, plastics technologists and metallurgists (who specialise in metals). You might be working on low carbon material technologies – helping to develop new materials which are less harmful to the environment. Materials scientists search for ways to recycle materials, and to reduce waste and energy consumption. Materials scientists use a variety of techniques to investigate materials’ physical structures and to assess their behaviour under conditions such as temperature, pressure and stress. For example, they can use electron microscopes and X-rays to examine internal structures. This can reveal how materials are changed, for example, by extreme temperatures. They use computers to test and evaluate materials. Materials scientists can create digital models of materials’ internal structures and reactions to experiments. Materials scientists usually work in laboratories and they might need to wear protective clothing such as hard hats, boots and gloves.

Personal qualities and skills

To be a materials scientist, you’ll need:

Problem-solving skills.
An interest in the practical use of science (especially maths, physics and chemistry).
An interest in engineering, industry and manufacturing.
A patient, methodical and investigative approach to research and development.
Accuracy and attention to detail.
The ability to explain your findings clearly and concisely, including in written reports.
Teamwork skills.
The ability to use technology, including computers.

Willingness to learn and develop new knowledge, and keep up to date with scientific advances throughout the world.

Pay and opportunities

Salaries for materials scientists vary. The pay rates given are approximate. Materials scientists earn in the range of £20,000 - £45,000 a year. Materials scientists usually work a 39-41-hour week, Monday to Friday. They might have occasional late finishes, and shifts are common in production work.

Employers are producers of metals, plastics, polymers, synthetic rubbers, natural and man-made fibres, ceramics and glass. Other employers are firms that use materials, for example, engineering industries, telecommunications, electricity, chemical and nuclear power companies. Research opportunities are in private industry, university laboratories, industrial research associations, contract research laboratories and government laboratories, such as the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), the National Physical Laboratory and the BRE (known in the past as the Building Research Establishment). Opportunities occur in towns and cities throughout the UK. There are also opportunities for materials scientists to work in other countries.

Some materials scientists work as self-employed consultants.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on the website of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining. They appear in scientific magazines and journals such as New Scientist (which also posts jobs on its website). Vacancies are also advertised through job boards and in national newspapers.

Entry routes and training

To become a materials scientist, you’ll need a relevant degree. Entry can also be possible with a relevant foundation degree or HND/HNC, although this is more likely to lead into a technician-level post. Specialist degrees in materials science are available. Universities usually offer materials science in combination with engineering or, sometimes, science subjects such as chemistry. It’s also possible to enter after completing a degree in a related subject, such as physics, chemistry or engineering. You might want, or employers might expect you to have, a postgraduate qualification in materials science. Some universities offer degree courses with a foundation year. This is an extra year for students who don’t have the specified science A levels for entry.

You can also enter this career path through an apprenticeship:

Materials science technologist (level 6 / degree)
Space systems engineer (level 6 / degree)
Materials process engineer (level 7 / degree)

Training might be on-the-job, for example, in particular lab techniques or specialist equipment. Continuing professional development could involve going on short courses, teaching others, and going to conferences, seminars and workshops.

Qualifications

For entry to a degree in materials science/technology, the usual minimum requirement is:

Two to three A levels, including at least one from maths, physics and chemistry. Design and technology is also a useful subject.
GCSEs at grades 9-4 in your A-level subjects.
A further 2/3 GCSEs at grades 9-4, including English and maths.

Alternatives to A levels include:

Edexcel (BTEC) level 3 Nationals
International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma.

However, course requirements vary, so please check prospectuses carefully.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Some entrants have gained skills by working as technicians in relevant industries, for example, polymers, plastics or ceramics. Other entrants have gained skills on industrial work placements.

If you don’t have the qualifications needed to enter a degree, foundation degree or HND course, you might be able to start one after completing an Access course, for example, Access to Science. You don’t usually need any qualifications to enter an Access course, although you should check this with the course providers. A foundation year before the start of a science degree or HND is available at some universities and higher education colleges for students who don’t have the science A-levels usually needed for entry to the course.

Funding for study of materials science/metallurgy is available from the Worshipful Company of Founders. Sponsorship for higher education study is available from some industrial organisations and manufacturing companies. Funding for postgraduate study and research is available, through universities, UKRI (UK Research and Innovation).

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