Materials science and engineering plays an increasingly vital role in our everyday lives - since the start of civilisation, the development of human society has relied upon the materials that we have been able to use. Today, in the silicon age, the new materials that we have designed and engineered are improving our standard of living by keeping us safe, protecting our health and even entertaining us in our leisure time. The materials scientists of today are developing the materials, and the machines on which to process them, that will define the technologies of tomorrow.

Postgraduate materials research students are playing a vital role in the development of the new materials and processes. Research opportunities in materials exist in a massive range of subjects, including work at the forefront of composite, polymer, steel and ceramic technologies. These technologies can be applied in many ways, developing the smart materials that will transform our homes and cars, the biomaterials that will help millions enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle and the electronic materials that will revolutionise the way we work, live and relax. Many of these developments will depend upon the work done by PhD students and post-doctorate researchers.

Materials science and engineering is a subject open to graduates from many disciplines. A number of universities offer Masters degrees in Materials Science and Engineering as one year taught courses, usually involving two terms of lectures, practical assignments, and a short research project. There are also a broad range of opportunities for graduates to study and research at Doctorate (PhD) and Post-Doctoral level. Experience gained in physics, chemistry, mathematics, engineering and (increasingly) the life sciences can play an important role in developing a tailor-made career in materials. High calibre materials graduates can end up playing a vital role in constructing everything from deep-sea oil rigs to deep-space satellites.

Robin Henderson is currently researching materials at post-doctoral level in the engineering department of the University of Aberdeen in Scotland. Robin began by studying for a materials degree at the University of Newcastle although, he says, "many of my friends doing research with materials have come from backgrounds in physics, mechanics, chemistry and even electronics." Robin is currently researching the microstructural modelling of composite ceramics that can be used in the steel industry. His interest in this field grew through an undergraduate link with a local company called Vesuvius, who have gone on to sponsor his post-graduate studies. This has given him the opportunity to combine work with both academia and industry. Robin says his reason for studying materials is quite simply, "Because I enjoy it. I've been given the flexibility to work on what I want to, and at the same time gain the management skills that are essential in industry".

Industrial experience is proving invaluable to many research students working in the UK, giving them a range of extra skills that make the difference after their research is completed. A number of post-graduate partnership opportunities exist in the UK, including a scheme run by the Teaching Company Directorate (TCD) which manages programmes to promote partnerships between universities and industry. One of these is the Teaching Company Scheme (TCS) which, through Government grants, offers post-graduate training partnerships with industry. These opportunities enable companies to make strategic business advances through specialised projects that would, without the input of the post-graduate students involved, be beyond the resources of the company.

Materials engineering also offers many opportunities to those wishing to remain in research and academic positions. Alicia Chrysostomou is currently researching at PhD level the recyclability and other properties of polymers at the University of North London. She says, "I've recently passed a Diploma in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, which is giving me the opportunity to carry on doing what I really enjoy, which is research, and to support this with lecturing and teaching." Alicia also enjoys the networking opportunities she gets through working in such a close-knit community. "Although we all work in the same sort of area, you get to meet some really interesting people from diverse areas of industry and academia. There are also opportunities all over the world, so if you want to travel, this is a really useful area to work in."

Materials-based industries are keen to employ highly qualified materials gradutes. There are excellent positions to be had at some of the worlds leading companies that use materials or rely upon engineering structures as a fundamental aspect of the work they do. Advancement once in industry is also possible; by joining one of the professional organisations registered with the Engineering Council, it is possible to work towards Chartered Engineer (CEng) status. This professional qualification is internationally recognised as a hallmark of engineering excellence - employment opportunities are increasing for those with CEng and financial rewards have, over recent years, increased well beyond the rate of inflation.

Robin and Alicia both agree that by deciding to carry on their studies with materials they were looking to the future. Robin says, "Part of doing a PhD is about getting on in the world. I remember going into a ceramics business when I was studying my degree and seeing the names of the people in power on their doors. They all began with the letters "Dr". I've chosen to do materials because it is something I really enjoy. There is a big demand in industry for high quality materials research, and doing a PhD will allow me to go to the very top, and best of all I get to do it doing something that I enjoy." Alicia agrees: "One day I hope to get CEng status. Although it will be a challenge getting there, it opens doors for you and is recognised the world over as something special. What I am doing now I see as a long term investment, and one which I know will pay off." Robin's message to all those thinking about studying materials after their graduation is, "If you enjoy doing something, then do it. I enjoy doing what I am doing, and I can recommend materials as a subject to anyone."

For further information on materials studies please contact:

The Education Manager, The Institute of Materials, 1 Carlton House Terrace, London, SW1Y 5DB, UK.
Tel: +44 (0)171 451 7300 Fax: +44 (0)171 839 4534

Author
Andrew McLaughlin
Institute of Materials