Nanotechnologist
Nanotechnologists manipulate molecules and atoms to design and create new materials and devices.
Typical Salary
£27,000 – £55,000
per year
Working Hours
39–41
hours per week
Day-to-day tasks
As a nanotechnologist, you could:
- investigate how materials behave at the nanoscale - 1 billionth of a metre
- analyse experimental data
- design instruments that can work at tiny scales
- simulate nanotechnology applications using computer modelling
- develop ways to manipulate materials and create new systems and devices
- write up and present research findings and publish articles
- work closely with industry to scale up commercial production
Skills needed
- science skills
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of physics
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- persistence and determination
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to get into this role
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- working towards this role
Career progression
With experience, you could lead or manage a team of scientists in a research and development department of a commercial or public organisation.
You could also open up opportunities for career development by gaining Chartered Scientist status.
A further option is to move into higher education and combine your research interests with academic teaching.