... materials science characterization and strategy, and biopharmaceutics understanding as well as ... The selected candidate will interface with multi-disciplinary research project teams and cross ...
... materials science characterization and strategy, and biopharmaceutics understanding as well as ... The selected candidate will interface with multi-disciplinary research project teams and cross ...
This Advanced Materials Science Engineer supports the materials backbone of the KARNO Power Module ... Research, Development & Process Improvement * Drive R&D efforts for next-generation materials ...
Quick apply
This Advanced Materials Science Engineer supports the materials backbone of the KARNO Power Module ... Research, Development & Process Improvement * Drive R&D efforts for next-generation materials ...
Research Scientist, Materials Synthesis
Menlo Park, CA · On-site
$160K - $220K/yr
As a Research Scientist within the Periodic Labs experimental effort, you bring computational ... PhD in chemistry, physics, or materials science, with 5+ years of hands-on experience * Proficiency ...
Research Scientist, Materials Synthesis
Menlo Park, CA · On-site
$160K - $220K/yr
As a Research Scientist within the Periodic Labs experimental effort, you bring computational ... PhD in chemistry, physics, or materials science, with 5+ years of hands-on experience * Proficiency ...
... Materials Science ) to advance technical activities, conduct and lead program support and applied research, and work closely with SML management to define strategic priorities related to optical ...
... Materials Science ) to advance technical activities, conduct and lead program support and applied research, and work closely with SML management to define strategic priorities related to optical ...
... materials science characterization and strategy, and biopharmaceutics understanding as well as ... The selected candidate will interface with multi-disciplinary research project teams and cross ...
... materials science characterization and strategy, and biopharmaceutics understanding as well as ... The selected candidate will interface with multi-disciplinary research project teams and cross ...
This Advanced Materials Science Engineer supports the materials backbone of the KARNO Power Module ... Research, Development & Process Improvement * Drive R&D efforts for next-generation materials ...
This Advanced Materials Science Engineer supports the materials backbone of the KARNO Power Module ... Research, Development & Process Improvement * Drive R&D efforts for next-generation materials ...
Research Associate
Austin, TX · On-site
$90K/yr
The emphases of the research areas include experimental mineral physics, physics and chemistry of planetary interiors, and high-pressure earth materials science. We seek a colleague who creatively ...
Research Associate
Austin, TX · On-site
$90K/yr
The emphases of the research areas include experimental mineral physics, physics and chemistry of planetary interiors, and high-pressure earth materials science. We seek a colleague who creatively ...
PSL's impact is grown through a diverse research portfolio that blends foundational scientific ... The Materials Science Department within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) isseekinga highly ...
PSL's impact is grown through a diverse research portfolio that blends foundational scientific ... The Materials Science Department within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) isseekinga highly ...
PSL's impact is grown through a diverse research portfolio that blends foundational scientific ... The Materials Science Department within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) isseekinga highly ...
PSL's impact is grown through a diverse research portfolio that blends foundational scientific ... The Materials Science Department within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) isseekinga highly ...
This Advanced Materials Science Engineer supports the materials backbone of the KARNO Power Module ... Research, Development & Process Improvement * Drive R&D efforts for next-generation materials ...
This Advanced Materials Science Engineer supports the materials backbone of the KARNO Power Module ... Research, Development & Process Improvement * Drive R&D efforts for next-generation materials ...
Chemist/Material Scientist
Austin, TX · On-site
Job Type Full-time Description A small business with a 45-year history as a first-class materials science and applied research and development firm seeks a motivated and detail-oriented scientist to ...
Chemist/Material Scientist
Austin, TX · On-site
Job Type Full-time Description A small business with a 45-year history as a first-class materials science and applied research and development firm seeks a motivated and detail-oriented scientist to ...
Materials Science Division Graduate Intern - Fall 2026
Livermore, CA · On-site
$6K - $8K/mo
You will conduct research in the following scientific fields: organic/inorganic synthesis, analytical, computational, materials characterization, actinide materials, optical materials science ...
Materials Science Division Graduate Intern - Fall 2026
Livermore, CA · On-site
$6K - $8K/mo
You will conduct research in the following scientific fields: organic/inorganic synthesis, analytical, computational, materials characterization, actinide materials, optical materials science ...
Materials Science Division Graduate Intern - Fall 2026
Livermore, CA · On-site
$6K - $8K/mo
You will conduct research in the following scientific fields: organic/inorganic synthesis, analytical, computational, materials characterization, actinide materials, optical materials science ...
Materials Science Division Graduate Intern - Fall 2026
Livermore, CA · On-site
$6K - $8K/mo
You will conduct research in the following scientific fields: organic/inorganic synthesis, analytical, computational, materials characterization, actinide materials, optical materials science ...
Materials Science Division Graduate Intern - Fall 2026
Livermore, CA · On-site
$6K - $8K/mo
You will conduct research in the following scientific fields: organic/inorganic synthesis, analytical, computational, materials characterization, actinide materials, optical materials science ...
Materials Science Division Graduate Intern - Fall 2026
Livermore, CA · On-site
$6K - $8K/mo
You will conduct research in the following scientific fields: organic/inorganic synthesis, analytical, computational, materials characterization, actinide materials, optical materials science ...
You will conduct research in the following scientific fields: organic/inorganic synthesis, analytical, computational, materials characterization, actinide materials, optical materials science ...
You will conduct research in the following scientific fields: organic/inorganic synthesis, analytical, computational, materials characterization, actinide materials, optical materials science ...
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Materials Science and Engineering (Multiple) Posting Number req23626 Department Materials Science & Engr Department Website Link Location Tucson Campus Address 1235 E.
Postdoctoral Research Associate, Materials Science and Engineering (Multiple) Posting Number req23626 Department Materials Science & Engr Department Website Link Location Tucson Campus Address 1235 E.
Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline * 2 ... research assistants, or junior scientists * 1 year of experience in grant writing, proposal ...
Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline * 2 ... research assistants, or junior scientists * 1 year of experience in grant writing, proposal ...
Scientific Research and Evaluation Specialist (Glass Scientist) [DOE0148147]
Richland, WA · On-site +1
We seek Scientific Research and Evaluation Specialist (Glass Scientist) [DOE0148147] candidates ... Functional attributes of this role include Glass science/materials * - Job Tasks: Job Tasks related ...
Scientific Research and Evaluation Specialist (Glass Scientist) [DOE0148147]
Richland, WA · On-site +1
We seek Scientific Research and Evaluation Specialist (Glass Scientist) [DOE0148147] candidates ... Functional attributes of this role include Glass science/materials * - Job Tasks: Job Tasks related ...
Description A small business with a 45-year history as a first-class materials science and applied research and development firm seeks a motivated and detail-oriented scientist to join our team. This ...
Description A small business with a 45-year history as a first-class materials science and applied research and development firm seeks a motivated and detail-oriented scientist to join our team. This ...
Remote | Physical Sciences Research Expert -- $75-$110/hour
New York, NY · On-site +1
$75 - $110/hr
Scientific Research & Technical Review * Review scientific materials involving physical sciences ... Background in one or more areas such as physics, chemistry, materials science, earth science ...
Quick apply
Remote | Physical Sciences Research Expert -- $75-$110/hour
New York, NY · On-site +1
$75 - $110/hr
Scientific Research & Technical Review * Review scientific materials involving physical sciences ... Background in one or more areas such as physics, chemistry, materials science, earth science ...
Materials Science Research information
See salary details
$29.5K - $40.9K
6% of jobs
$40.9K - $52.3K
0% of jobs
$52.3K - $63.7K
0% of jobs
$63.7K - $75.1K
5% of jobs
$79.4K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$75.1K - $86.5K
36% of jobs
The median wage is $88.6K / yr.
$86.5K - $98K
15% of jobs
$106.2K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$98K - $109.4K
18% of jobs
$109.4K - $120.8K
7% of jobs
$120.8K - $132.2K
6% of jobs
$132.2K - $143.6K
3% of jobs
$143.6K - $155K
3% of jobs
$29.5K
$95.3K
$155K
How much do materials science research jobs pay per year?
What is the difference between Materials Science Research vs Materials Engineering?
| Aspect | Materials Science Research | Materials Engineering |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Bachelor's or Master's in Materials Science, PhD often preferred | Bachelor's or Master's in Materials Engineering or related field |
| Work Environment | Research labs, universities, R&D centers | Manufacturing plants, product development, industrial settings |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Academic institutions, government labs, private R&D | Manufacturers, aerospace, automotive, electronics industries |
Materials Science Research focuses on understanding the fundamental properties of materials through experimentation and analysis, often in academic or research settings. Materials Engineering applies this knowledge to develop, design, and improve materials for practical use in manufacturing and industry. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, their work environments and objectives differ significantly.
What is materials science research?
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Materials Science Researcher, and why are they important?
What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in a Materials Science Research role?

Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO
Posted 19 days ago
Pfizer rating
8.3
Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
23rd of 71 rated pharmaceutical
Job description
This Senior Principal Scientist position will be a strong scientific and leadership role within the Early Formulation Science and Drug Delivery (EFS-DD) group, supporting early-stage drug and drug product design, materials science characterization and strategy, and biopharmaceutics understanding as well as early clinical drug delivery strategy of new small molecules.
The selected candidate will interface with multi-disciplinary research project teams and cross functional management to provide guidance, input and direction on molecular design, dosage form design, solid form strategy, and biopharmaceutics aspects of pre-clinical and clinical candidate development. The role will also focus on developing and demonstrating leadership and drug delivery strategy skills within the Drug Product Design and Supply department which functions as part of the larger Pharmaceutical Sciences division.
Key activities/abilities include:
- Understanding of connectivity of molecular structure, solution kinetics, thermodynamics, diffusion and permeation of molecules across membranes
- Strong fundamental understanding of molecular and supramolecular interactions of small molecules in aqueous environments
- Ability and interest to understand and probe molecular/supramolecular interactions of small molecules in common enabling drug delivery technologies; desire to optimize system properties to achieve required delivery profiles for pre-clinical and clinical studies
- Strong fundamental understanding of principles governing crystallization and polymorph behavior, characterization techniques for crystalline and amorphous solid forms, and impacts of solid form on stability, manufacturability, and bio-performance of small molecule drug candidates and drug products
- Efficient application of existing advanced modeling and simulation tools for predictive performance of oral absorption and systemic exposure (pharmacokinetics) in pre-clinical and clinical studies
- Development and advancement of the concepts of early translational biopharmaceutics with a focus to improve predictive capabilities by linking in vitro drug and drug product performance attributes to in vivo performance attributes
- Lead matrix teams of scientists across multiple levels to deliver portfolio and initiative breakthroughs
- Lead scientific strategy and set direction for advances in oral, small molecule drug delivery through interaction with organizational thought leaders and cross functional management
- Maintain an awareness of and contribute to current relevant scientific literature
- Conduct novel scientific research and present significant findings via internal and external presentations or publications
ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Will provide scientific advances, leadership, and strategic direction for the fundamental understanding of key connectivity of molecular structure, solution and diffusion behavior and permeation characteristics to enable optimal drug formulation and drug delivery systems design
- Integrates pharmaceutics, physical organic chemistry, biophysical chemistry, supramolecular chemistry, materials science, and fundamental biopharmaceutics principles into drug candidate screening and design, formulation design, solid form strategy, and ultimately project direction
- Teach and mentor colleagues across the Pfizer organization
- Cultivates sustainable and effective relationships with internal partners and stakeholders, i.e., partner lines in Medicinal Design, Pharmaceutical Sciences Small Molecule (PSSM), Clinical Pharmacology , Drug Safety (DSRD), relevant Research Units, and Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics, and Metabolism (PDM)
- Advances scientific research and expands capability in the areas of molecular design-drug delivery, materials science, early biopharmaceutics, and drug formulation
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Materials Science, Physical Chemistry, Physical Organic Chemistry, Biophysical Chemistry or related discipline with 8+ years relevant experience in drug delivery, or BS/MS in Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Materials Science, Physical Chemistry, Physical Organic Chemistry, Biophysical Chemistry or related discipline with a minimum of 10-12 years relevant pharmaceutics industry experience in small molecule drug product design.
- Knowledge in biology/pharmacology/drug discovery /drug delivery up to Proof of Concept (POC) studies.
- Small molecule Formulation and/or early Biopharmaceutics, Materials Science, or Pharmacokinetics background, and a strong record of scientific achievement.
- Experience in using and interpreting biophysical modeling, physicochemical (solubility & dissolution) and biological (passive, transporter mediated, efflux) transport phenomena, design, interpretation, and use of in vitro experiments, or in vivo/in vitro drug metabolism studies, and interpretation of pre-clinical exposure data for the design and selection of new small molecule drug candidates and drug delivery systems
- A strong interest and motivation to learn and implement new technologies and concepts.
- A strong interest in leadership
- Extensive practical experience working within cross-disciplinary teams and achieving results in a matrix environment.
- Excellent organizational and communication (oral and written) skills.
- The ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Proven track record of supervising, mentoring and coaching scientists.
- Understanding of drug discovery and development concepts
- Experience in actively developing and advancing scientific initiatives and external collaborations.
- Collaborative and effective partnering skills applied in a complex, multi-disciplinary organizational model.
Candidate demonstrates a breadth of diverse leadership experiences and capabilities including: the ability to influence and collaborate with peers, develop and coach others, oversee and guide the work of other colleagues to achieve meaningful outcomes and create business impact.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to work in a dynamic laboratory environment, involving standing, sitting, manipulating small scale laboratory samples. Ability to perform mathematical calculations and data analysis. Ability to work on multiple projects and prioritize assignments.
NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS
Occasional travel may be required.
Relocation support available
Work Location Assignment: On Premise
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $124,400.00 to $207,400.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer's Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 17.5% of the base salary and eligibility to participate in our share based long term incentive program. We offer comprehensive and generous benefits and programs to help our colleagues lead healthy lives and to support each of life's moments. Benefits offered include a 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions and an additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution, paid vacation, holiday and personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage. Learn more at Pfizer Candidate Site - U.S. Benefits | (uscandidates.mypfizerbenefits.com). Pfizer compensation structures and benefit packages are aligned based on the location of hire. The United States salary range provided does not apply to Tampa, FL or any location outside of the United States.
Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.
Candidates must be authorized to be employed in the U.S. by any employer.
U.S. work visa sponsorship (such as TN, O-1, H-1B, etc.) is not available for this role now or in the future.
Sunshine Act
Pfizer reports payments and other transfers of value to health care providers as required by federal and state transparency laws and implementing regulations. These laws and regulations require Pfizer to provide government agencies with information such as a health care provider's name, address and the type of payments or other value received, generally for public disclosure. Subject to further legal review and statutory or regulatory clarification, which Pfizer intends to pursue, reimbursement of recruiting expenses for licensed physicians may constitute a reportable transfer of value under the federal transparency law commonly known as the Sunshine Act. Therefore, if you are a licensed physician who incurs recruiting expenses as a result of interviewing with Pfizer that we pay or reimburse, your name, address and the amount of payments made currently will be reported to the government. If you have questions regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact your Talent Acquisition representative.
EEO & Employment Eligibility
Pfizer is committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability or veteran status. Pfizer also complies with all applicable national, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act and IRCA. Pfizer is an E-Verify employer. This position requires permanent work authorization in the United States.
Pfizer endeavors to make www.pfizer.com/careers accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process and/or interviewing, please email disabilityrecruitment@pfizer.com. This is to be used solely for accommodation requests with respect to the accessibility of our website, online application process and/or interviewing. Requests for any other reason will not be returned.
Research and Development
About Pfizer
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
All over the world, Pfizer colleagues work together to positively impact health for everyone, everywhere. Our colleagues have the opportunity to grow and develop a career that offers both individual and company success; be part of an ownership culture that values diversity and where all colleagues are energized and engaged; and the ability to impact the health and lives of millions of people. Pfizer, a global leader in the biopharmaceutical industry, is continuously seeking top talent who are inspired by our purpose to innovate to bring therapies to patients that significantly improve their lives. Our Health and Science System Specialists Team provides leadership across patient care settings in the complex Hospital, Health System, and Key Medical Group environment to bring value to our customers and patients in this dynamic ecosystem.
Industry
Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
New York, NY, US
Year founded
1849