Materials Science Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of scientific innovation, the focus on materials science professors has never been more critical.

As our understanding of materials and their properties advances, the demand for skilled minds who can educate, research, and contribute to our knowledge base grows more pressing.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a materials science professor?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring academic attempting to grasp the scope of this role,
• A university recruiter seeking the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of materials science,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a fully customizable materials science professor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or university career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Materials Science Professor Duties and Responsibilities

Materials Science Professors are responsible for teaching undergraduate and graduate students in the area of materials science.

They conduct and publish their research work and mentor students in their academic and research pursuits.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Developing and delivering lectures on various topics of materials science
• Preparing course materials, such as homework assignments, class handouts, and syllabi
• Evaluating and grading students’ class work, laboratory work, assignments, and papers
• Conducting research in their field of expertise and publishing their findings in scholarly journals
• Guiding student research projects and supervising their work
• Keeping abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, attending conferences, and talking with colleagues
• Collaborating with colleagues to address teaching and research issues
• Maintaining student attendance records, grades, and other required records
• Performing administrative duties such as serving on committees
• Seeking and applying for research funding and grants

 

Materials Science Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Materials Science Professor to join our faculty team.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for conducting, leading, and supervising research, teaching at undergraduate and graduate levels, contributing to administrative tasks, and promoting academic growth in the field of materials science.

Candidates should be capable of teaching a range of materials science courses while maintaining a robust research agenda and contributing to the department’s service requirements.

 

Responsibilities

• Developing and implementing innovative teaching methods
• Educating students on the principles and theories of materials science
• Conducting high-quality research in the field of materials science
• Supervising student projects and research at undergraduate, graduate, and PhD levels
• Publishing research findings in reputable journals and presenting at conferences
• Contributing to the administrative tasks of the department
• Providing academic counseling and support to students
• Participating in departmental and college activities
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge in the field of materials science

 

Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science or a closely related field
• Previous experience in a similar role
• Proven record of research and publications in reputable academic journals
• Strong knowledge of various teaching methods and ability to adapt to students’ educational needs
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to motivate and inspire students

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Materials Science Professor
• Work Environment: University campus setting
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Department
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our university. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and teaching philosophy, and a list of at least three references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Materials Science Professor Do?

Materials Science Professors primarily work in colleges, universities or other higher education institutions, in the field of material sciences, which involves the study of the properties and applications of materials of all types.

Their primary responsibility is to teach students about the composition, structure, and properties of materials such as ceramics, metals, polymers, and composites.

They plan and deliver lectures, lead laboratory experiments and activities, assign and grade coursework, and guide research projects.

These professors also conduct their own research in material sciences, often specializing in a particular subset of the field like nanomaterials or biomaterials.

They are expected to contribute to the body of knowledge in the field by publishing their research findings in scientific journals and presenting at conferences.

Materials Science Professors are also involved in administrative tasks like curriculum development, student advising, committee work, and may also participate in departmental or institutional management.

In addition to their teaching and research responsibilities, they may also collaborate with industry professionals, scientists, and other academic staff on various projects, bringing their expertise in materials science to solve complex problems or develop new materials.

 

Materials Science Professor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Materials Science Professor should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications that include:

• Deep understanding and knowledge of materials science, including the properties and behaviors of different materials, and the capacity to convey this knowledge to students in an engaging manner.
• Excellent teaching and presentation skills to deliver complex scientific concepts and theories in a clear and understandable manner to students with varying levels of understanding.
• Strong research skills, with a proven track record of published work in the field of materials science, and the ability to guide students in their own research endeavors.
• Ability to design and deliver course syllabi and materials that align with departmental and institutional standards.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with students, faculty, and other university staff, and to foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
• Excellent organization and time management skills to balance teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and overcome challenges in the teaching and research process.
• Willingness to stay up-to-date with advancements in the field of materials science and incorporate relevant material into coursework.
• PhD or equivalent in Materials Science or a related field.

 

Materials Science Professor Experience Requirements

Entry-level Materials Science Professor candidates often have several years of experience in research or industry, which could be gained through doctoral study or post-doctoral research positions.

During their doctoral studies, they gain significant theoretical and practical experience in materials science, as well as valuable teaching experience through assistantship roles.

More seasoned candidates should possess 3 to 5 years of experience, which is often gained through a combination of research, teaching, and industry roles.

They may have served as a Research Scientist or Laboratory Manager in a materials science environment, or as a Lecturer or Assistant Professor in a university setting.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are expected to have demonstrated significant achievements in their research area, evidenced by publications in reputable journals.

They may also have experience in supervising and mentoring both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Those with 10 or more years of experience often have a track record of successful research grant applications, and evidence of leadership in research and teaching.

At this level, candidates may be ready for senior roles such as Department Chair or Dean.

 

Materials Science Professor Education and Training Requirements

Materials Science Professors typically have a Ph.D. in Materials Science, Engineering, or a related field.

This is preceded by a bachelor’s and master’s degree in similar disciplines where they gain a foundational understanding of materials science, including the properties and behaviors of different materials.

The Ph.D. program generally involves extensive research in a specific area of materials science, culminating in a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field.

Professors often undergo postdoctoral training, which provides additional research experience and often involves publishing research findings in scholarly journals.

Materials Science Professors are typically required to have several years of experience in academia, often gained through teaching assistantships during graduate school or adjunct faculty positions.

Although not required, some Materials Science Professors may pursue additional certifications in areas such as nanotechnology, metallurgy, or biomaterials, which can enhance their expertise and employability.

Continuous professional development is crucial for staying up-to-date with technological advances and emerging trends in the field of materials science.

 

Materials Science Professor Salary Expectations

A Materials Science Professor earns an average salary of $89,320 (USD) per year.

The salary can vary depending on the level of experience, the prestige of the institution, and the location of the university.

 

Materials Science Professor Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Materials Science Professor need?

A Materials Science Professor generally needs a Ph.D. in materials science, engineering, or a closely related field.

They also need a strong track record of academic research and publications in reputable scientific journals.

Prior teaching experience at the university level is usually preferred.

 

What does a typical day look like for a Materials Science Professor?

A Materials Science Professor typically spends their day teaching classes, preparing lectures, grading student work, and conducting research in their area of expertise.

They may also attend faculty meetings, advise students, supervise lab activities, and write grant proposals to secure funding for their research.

 

What skills are important for a Materials Science Professor?

A Materials Science Professor should have a deep understanding of materials science and engineering principles.

They should also have strong communication skills to effectively convey complex concepts to students.

Additionally, analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail are crucial for conducting research.

Time management and organizational skills are also vital for balancing teaching, research, and administrative duties.

 

What should you look for in a Materials Science Professor’s CV?

In a Materials Science Professor’s CV, look for a strong academic background in materials science or a closely related field.

They should have a Ph.D. and a track record of research and publications in this field.

Also, look for experience in teaching at the university level, advising students, and securing research funding.

Participation in professional organizations and conferences can also be a plus.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Materials Science Professor?

Hiring a Materials Science Professor can be challenging due to the specific qualifications and experience required for the role.

The candidate needs to have a blend of deep technical expertise, teaching ability, and research skills.

Furthermore, the demand for professionals in this field often outweighs the supply, making the recruitment process more competitive.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve illuminated the multifaceted role of a materials science professor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about lectures and labs.

It’s about molding the future of materials science, one discovery at a time.

With our comprehensive materials science professor job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your next big move.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to meticulous job listings or refining your curriculum vitae to a fine polish.

Remember:

Every experiment, every research paper, is a part of a grander vision.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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