Whether developing a new type
of shatterproof glass for phone screens,
or a heat-resistant compound
to support Mars mission equipment,
materials engineers and materials scientists
have their fingerprints all over
innovations in industry.
While both develop new products
and improve existing ones,
materials scientists focus on the structure
and properties of materials,
while materials engineers apply that knowledge
to develop products.
Both usually specialize in a principal material,
such as ceramics, glass, metal,
or semiconductors.
Materials scientists improve materials
such as metallic alloys
or superconducting materials,
so that products can have features
and functions that were
not possible previously.
They also develop new materials.
Materials scientists conduct experiments
and analyze their results.
Materials engineers select materials
for specific products
and develop new ways
to use existing materials,
continuously designing improvements.
They prepare proposals and budgets,
analyze labor costs,
and may supervise technologists
and technicians.
These professionals team up
with other specialists,
and generally work in offices,
manufacturing facilities,
or research and development labs.
A bachelor’s degree in materials science,
engineering or a related field…
is needed for entry-level jobs.
Materials scientists may also
major in chemistry or physics,
and may need a master’s degree
or a Ph.D. and significant work experience
to qualify for some jobs.
A graduate degree allows an engineer
to work as a college-level teacher
or to do research and development.