Future Tech Jobs Future Tech Jobs

Materials Scientist Jobs

Experts who design, develop, and characterise advanced materials. A role at the heart of innovation, from nanomaterials to biomaterials.

Open roles
0
Browse latest jobs → Get an alert

Materials Scientists are at the forefront of developing and characterising advanced materials that drive technological advancements. They work in a variety of sectors, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, and healthcare, focusing on everything from polymers and nanomaterials to biomaterials and metallurgy. These scientists conduct experiments, analyse data, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to create materials with unique properties and applications.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Materials Scientist

A typical week for a Materials Scientist is a mix of laboratory work, data analysis, and collaboration with other researchers.

  1. 01
    Conduct experiments to test material properties
  2. 02
    Analyse data and prepare reports
  3. 03
    Collaborate with engineers and other scientists
  4. 04
    Attend project meetings and present findings
  5. 05
    Write research papers and technical documents
  6. 06
    Stay updated with the latest research and industry trends
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for materials scientists. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Materials Scientist

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in experiments, data collection, and basic material characterisation under supervision.

  2. Level 2

    Materials Scientist

    3–5 yrs

    Lead specific projects, design experiments, and contribute to the development of new materials.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Materials Scientist

    6–10 yrs

    Manage multiple projects, mentor junior scientists, and play a key role in strategic research initiatives.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Materials Scientist

    10+ yrs

    Oversee large-scale research programmes, lead innovation, and influence the direction of materials science within the organisation.

Pathway

How to become a Materials Scientist

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Academic Foundation

    Complete a degree in materials science, chemistry, physics, or a related field.

  2. 2

    Research Experience

    Gain practical experience through internships, research assistant roles, or PhD projects.

  3. 3

    Entry-Level Position

    Start as a Junior Materials Scientist, assisting in experiments and data analysis.

  4. 4

    Specialisation

    Develop expertise in a specific area of materials science, such as nanomaterials or biomaterials.

  5. 5

    Leadership Roles

    Progress to Senior Materials Scientist, managing projects and mentoring junior team members.

  6. 6

    Strategic Influence

    Advance to Principal Materials Scientist, shaping the future of materials science in your organisation.

No Materials Scientist Jobs jobs right now

We don't have any matching roles at the moment, but new jobs are added daily.

Latest jobs

Cambridge GaN Devices logo

Senior Power Device Engineer

The Senior Power Device Engineer will lead research and innovation projects for GaN-based power devices and ICs, working closely with a multidisciplinary team. Responsibilities include feasibility studies, hands-on simulations, and managing technology requirements to drive the development of energy-efficient power solutions.

Cambridge GaN Devices Cambridge, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
Johnson Matthey logo

Manufacturing apprentice - Melting

As a Manufacturing apprentice in Melting, you will support metal melting and casting processes, operate equipment, maintain a clean workspace, and complete quality checks. You will also attend college one day per week and work towards a National Vocational qualification.

Johnson Matthey North Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
On-site
Johnson Matthey logo

Corporate Platforms Programme Manager

As a Corporate Platforms Programme Manager, you will lead complex, multi-year technology programmes across corporate functions like Finance, HR, and Legal. You will define programme scope, manage delivery, and ensure successful adoption of changes, working closely with multidisciplinary teams and senior stakeholders.

Johnson Matthey North Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent Flexible
Johnson Matthey logo

Corporate Platforms Programme Manager

As a Corporate Platforms Programme Manager, you will lead complex, multi-year technology programmes across corporate functions like Finance, HR, and Legal. You will define programme scope, manage delivery, and ensure value-driven outcomes while leading multidisciplinary teams and driving change adoption.

Johnson Matthey London, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent Flexible
Johnson Matthey logo

Mechanical Technician

As a Mechanical Technician, you will fabricate, construct, and commission bespoke R&D and pilot plant equipment, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. You will also maintain and repair existing installations, perform compliance testing, and record detailed information for KPIs.

Johnson Matthey United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent
Johnson Matthey logo

Process Safety Lead

As a Site Process Safety Engineer, you will support the Site Process Safety Programme, improve PSRM practices, and ensure compliance with process safety regulations. You will work closely with local project engineering teams, manage process safety risk reduction, and report metrics to leadership.

Johnson Matthey North Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
Browse all jobs →
FAQs

Common questions

  • Materials Scientists are hired by a wide range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, healthcare, and manufacturing.

  • Essential skills include a strong background in chemistry and physics, proficiency in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and the ability to work collaboratively.

  • Career progression typically starts with entry-level roles, moves through specialisation and leadership, and culminates in strategic influence within the organisation.

  • Salary ranges vary based on experience and industry. For more detailed information, refer to the salary section on this page.

Hiring materials scientists?

Post your role in 90 seconds and reach the specialist audience that already reads this page.

Post a job → See pricing

🍪 Basic, anonymous analytics (aggregate counts only, never shared) are always on. Accept to also enable third-party tools — Google Analytics, Microsoft Clarity, Mixpanel, Leadfeeder — which help us match you with relevant Materials Science roles. We never sell your data or use it for cross-site advertising. See our Cookie Policy.