Materials Scientists
Research and study the structures and chemical properties of various natural and synthetic or composite materials, including metals, alloys, rubber, ceramics, semiconductors, polymers, and glass. 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. Includes glass scientists, ceramic scientists, metallurgical scientists, and polymer scientists.
SOC: 19-2032.00
Common Job Titles
Materials Research EngineerMaterials ScientistResearch ScientistScientist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeDesign novel composite materials and material formulations with targeted properties integrating knowledge of chemistry, physics, and engineering principles for specific industrial applications.Advanced
- KnowledgeSynthesize research findings from multiple analytical techniques and experimental data sources to draw conclusions about material behavior and structure-property relationships.Advanced
- KnowledgeDevelop experimental methodologies for testing material strength, durability, and performance characteristics adapting standard techniques to address novel research questions independently.Advanced
- KnowledgeFormulate technical documentation including research reports, journal publications, and patent applications communicating complex scientific concepts clearly to diverse technical and non-technical audiences.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze structural and chemical properties of materials including metals, alloys, ceramics, semiconductors, and polymers using advanced spectroscopy and microscopy techniques in laboratory settings.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate material performance data from thermal, mechanical, and chemical testing to determine compliance with industry standards and application-specific requirements.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate specialized analytical instrumentation including electron microscopes, spectrometers, and thermal analyzers following established protocols to ensure accurate characterization of material samples.Proficient
- Hands-onExecute material synthesis and processing procedures using furnaces, presses, and deposition systems maintaining precise control over temperature, pressure, and environmental conditions.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret complex spectroscopic, diffraction, and imaging data using computational software including MATLAB, Python, and specialized materials analysis tools.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate research findings and material recommendations when communicating with interdisciplinary teams, industry stakeholders, and academic audiences.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply principles of thermodynamics, kinetics, and quantum mechanics to predict material behavior and guide development of materials with specific properties.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate continuous learning strategies and emerging research methodologies to remain current with advances in nanotechnology, computational materials science, and characterization techniques.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Materials Scientists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
8,330
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $61,460 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $168,500 |
| Workers on average earn | $111,410 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Engineering and Technology4.8/5
- Chemistry4.6/5
- Physics4.4/5
- Mathematics4.3/5
- Computers and Electronics3.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Hypertext markup language HTMLIBM SPSS StatisticsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WordPythonRThe MathWorks MATLAB
Technology Skills
ANSYS LS-DYNAANSYS MultiphysicsAccelrys Materials StudioAdvanced Chemistry Development Analytical LaboratoryBruker AXS EVABruker AXS LEPTOSBruker AXS TOPASChempute Software HSC Chemistry
Tools & Equipment
AccelerometersAnnealing ovensAtomic absorption AA spectroscopesAtomic force microscopesAuger electron spectrometersBackscatter detectorsBall millsBall-on-disk tribometers