Materials Scientists
Also called:
Materials Scientist, Research Scientist, Engineer, Materials Research Engineer
What they do:
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.
On the job, you would:
- Recommend materials for reliable performance in various environments.
- 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.
- Research methods of processing, forming, and firing materials to develop such products as ceramic dental fillings, unbreakable dinner plates, and telescope lenses.
Math and Science
Engineering and Technology
- product and service development
- computers and electronics
Arts and Humanities
Manufactured or Agricultural Goods
- manufacture and distribution of products
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Basic Skills
- using scientific rules and strategies to solve problems
- reading work related information
Problem Solving
- noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
People and Technology Systems
- thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
- figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
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Verbal
- communicate by speaking
- read and understand what is written
Ideas and Logic
- notice when problems happen
- use rules to solve problems
Math
- choose the right type of math to solve a problem
- add, subtract, multiply, or divide
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People interested in this work like activities that include
ideas, thinking, and figuring things out.
They do well at jobs that need:
- Analytical Thinking
- Integrity
- Attention to Detail
- Initiative
- Innovation
- Persistence
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You might use software like this on the job:
Analytical or scientific software
- Bruker AXS LEPTOS
- PANalytical X'Pert Epitaxy
Spreadsheet software
Electronic mail software
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doctoral/professional degree or
bachelor's degree
usually needed
Get started on your career:
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New job opportunities are likely in the future.
$84,600
per year, on average
This work is part of the .
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You might like a career in one of these industries:
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