What’s involved?

From cars and computers to hot areas like nanotechnology and conducting polymers, materials researchers spend their time inventing new products and working out how to make existing products better.

Chemists might work for companies such as BP, ICI and Unilever on products like pharmaceuticals, paints and personal-hygiene goods. Physical scientists could work for Rolls-Royce or IBM on the latest electronics and computer software.

Key skills

• ability to analyse complex problems
• commercial awareness
• flexibility
• good interpersonal skills.

Training

A higher degree gained by research, such as a PhD, is regarded as training.

Tips for success

Jobs in academia are harder to come by and a PhD is often a minimum requirement. Salaries depend on who you work for and location.