The field of Material Science is growing extensive due to an increase in the start-ups forming within the space. These start-ups typically focus on biomaterials and biopolymers which are materials/polymers derived from natural sources and can be applied to  the medical, packaging, cosmetic, textile and construction industries. The industry of creating bio-based alternatives to plastic is in huge succession at the moment as  the world is looking to be more sustainable, reduce waste and creating more ecofriendly alternatives. 

Other applications of Material Science include metals and ceramics which are
focused on developing new materials with specific properties and applications. These materials are not naturally derived but used as they are unable to withstand  high strength, high temperatures and electrical conductivity.

A career in material science is very diverse and can lead to lots of different paths. This could be within R&D, engineering, quality control, production, technology transfer, scale-up and manufacturing. The increase in start-ups using waste streams to create innovative materials also allows for synthetic biologists, genetic engineers and chemists to play a large part in this previously heavily engineering dominated field.  

• Material scientists who are involved in material formulation and testing of the materials during R&D and optimisation. This could also be called a Polymer Scientist if they are working with polymers and a Metallurgist if they are working with metals or alloys.
• Process Engineers are involved in optimising the manufacturing process for materials. They work alongside the material scientists to enhance quality of the materials.
• Design/Mechanical Engineers are involved in computer modelling and simulation tools to design and predict the new materials before they go through production.
• Automation Engineer is involved in the design and development of complex robotic systems or software applications that help to automate specific functions within material development.
• Production Engineers are involved in helping transfer the materials from R&D into full scale manufacturing and commercialisation.
• Chemists/Biologists are involved in the R&D work in helping understand the conversion of waste streams or novel polymers/composites into novel materials.
• Other roles within this field can also include, Operations Managers, Project Managers, Laboratory Managers, IP Managers, LCA Analysts, Business Development Managers and Transformation Managers.  

Entry level Material Scientist positions with a bachelor’s or master’s degree can expect up to £28,000 whilst PhD graduates can expect up to £37,000 (depends on location and area of focus).

Material Scientist roles for those who have a bachelor’s or master’s degree with 1-2 years industry experience can expect up to £32,000, whilst 3-4 years in industry up to £40,000. For PhD graduates those with a postdoc can expect up to £42,000 whilst those with 1-2 industry experience can expect up to £45,000 whilst 3-4 years up to £50,000.

Senior Material Scientist roles with those with extensive industry would be looking for £50,000 – £60,000 but if responsible for being a team leader they can be looking more for £60,000 – £70,000.

Head of/Director level roles are those who will be involved in leading departments, managing budgets, or making strategic decisions can earn salaries from £70,000 – £100,000+.

You will need to have all or most of the following skills: 

• Material testing  
• Material formulation 
• Material Characterisation 
• Material development either at R&D level or scale-up 
• Working with industry standards 

You will need to have a BSc, MSc or PhD qualification in Material Science, Material Engineering, Chemical Engineering or Applied Chemistry with a large focus on developing, characterising and testing materials.

Salary:

£22k – £28k

What They Do:

Performs routine laboratory tasks, prepares materials samples, and assists scientists in experiments and data collection.

Skills Needed:

• Basic knowledge of materials properties and testing techniques
• Laboratory safety and compliance
• Ability to use standard testing equipment
• Strong attention to detail and accurate record-keeping
• Data analysis using Excel or similar tools

Salary:

£28k – £35k

What They Do:

Supports materials research by conducting experiments, analysing results, and contributing to technical reports.

Skills Needed:

• Understanding of polymers, metals, ceramics, or composites
• Hands-on experience with analytical instruments (SEM, XRD, DSC)
• Statistical data analysis and reporting
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Familiarity with CAD or materials modelling software (advantageous)

Salary:

£35k – £45k

What They Do:

Designs and develops new materials or processes, independently conducts research, and liaises with cross-functional teams.

Skills Needed:

• Advanced knowledge of materials characterisation techniques
• Experimental design and troubleshooting
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Experience with manufacturing processes and quality standards
• Ability to present findings to internal and external stakeholders

Salary:

£45k – £60k

What They Do:

Leads research and development projects, supervises junior scientists, and provides technical direction.

Skills Needed:

• Expertise in advanced materials design and development
• Leadership and project management skills
• Strong regulatory and compliance knowledge
• Grant writing and funding acquisition
• Ability to represent the organisation at conferences and events

Salary:

£60k – £85k

What They Do:

Manages the materials science function, sets strategic research goals, and aligns projects with commercial objectives.

Skills Needed:

• Departmental leadership and strategic planning
• Budget and resource management
• Cross-functional and external collaboration
• Knowledge of market trends and commercial applications
• Talent development and succession planning

Salary:

£90k – £120k+

What They Do:

Defines the organisation’s materials science strategy, oversees large-scale R&D programmes, and drives innovation at the executive level.

Skills Needed:

• Visionary leadership and deep technical expertise
• International collaborations and industry partnerships
• Ability to translate research breakthroughs into commercial success
• C-suite communication and investor relations
• Strong track record of publications, patents, and product launches