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Phd Materials Science Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Eastman

PhD Polymer Scientist

Kingsport, TN · On-site

PhD graduation date must be in 2026 or anticipated graduation in 2027** Eastman Chemical Company is ... D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Polymer Chemistry, Macromolecular Science, Materials Science ...

Eastman

PhD Polymer Scientist

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

PhD graduation date must be in 2026 or anticipated graduation in 2027** Eastman Chemical Company is ... D. in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Polymer Chemistry, Macromolecular Science, Materials Science ...

Eastman

PhD Analytical Chemist

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$100 - $140/hr

PhD graduation date must be in 2026 or anticipated graduation in 2027** Eastman Chemical Company is ... D. in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, Polymer Science/Chemistry, Materials Science, or related ...

Eastman

PhD Analytical Chemist

Kingsport, TN · On-site

PhD graduation date must be in 2026 or anticipated graduation in 2027** Eastman Chemical Company is ... D. in Analytical Chemistry, Chemistry, Polymer Science/Chemistry, Materials Science, or related ...

FC Renew

Senior Scientist

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$87K - $119K/yr

PhD in Electrochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science or related engineering or science with 2+ years in a laboratory and product development setting with emphasis on ...

FC Renew

Senior Scientist

Knoxville, TN · Hybrid

$87K - $119K/yr

PhD in Electrochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science or related engineering or science with 2+ years in a laboratory and product development setting with emphasis on ...

Ametek

Senior Research Scientist

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$94K - $120K/yr

PhD required in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related scientific discipline. * Minimum 8 years of relevant experience in:

Ametek

Senior Research Scientist

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$94K - $120K/yr

PhD required in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related scientific discipline. * Minimum 8 years of relevant experience in:

AMETEK, Inc.

Senior Research Scientist

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

PhD required in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related scientific discipline. * Minimum 8 years of relevant experience in:

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All JobsPhd Materials Science JobsPhd Materials Science Jobs in Tennessee

Phd Materials Science information

See Tennessee salary details

$48.1K

$112.5K

$157K

How much do phd materials science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd materials science in Tennessee is $112,520.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,900.00 and $151,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD in materials science?

A PhD in Materials Science is an advanced research degree focused on the study of the properties, structure, performance, and applications of materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. Students in this program conduct original research to develop new materials or improve existing ones for use in various industries, including electronics, aerospace, energy, and healthcare. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, research institutions, or industry, where they contribute to innovations in technology and manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD in materials science?

To thrive as a PhD in Materials Science, you need advanced knowledge in physics, chemistry, and engineering principles, along with a doctoral degree in the field. Expertise in analytical techniques (like SEM, TEM, XRD), materials characterization tools, and proficiency in scientific programming or data analysis software are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective scientific communication help researchers excel and drive innovation. These skills enable the development of new materials and technologies, essential for progress across industries such as electronics, energy, and manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by PhD holders in materials science when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

PhD holders in Materials Science may encounter challenges such as adapting to faster-paced project timelines, learning to prioritize commercially viable outcomes over purely theoretical research, and collaborating with cross-functional teams from engineering, manufacturing, and business. Industry roles often require clear communication of complex findings to non-specialists and adjusting to structured project management systems. However, these challenges also offer opportunities for professional growth, broader impact, and the chance to see research translated into real-world products.

What is the difference between Phd Materials Science vs Materials Engineer?

AspectPhd Materials ScienceMaterials Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Materials Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Materials Science or Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsManufacturing, product development, industry labs
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, advanced R&DManufacturers, aerospace, automotive, electronics
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic vs industry roles, research focusPractical application, product development, industry roles

The main difference between Phd Materials Science and Materials Engineer lies in their focus and work environment. PhD holders typically engage in research, academia, and advanced R&D, while Materials Engineers focus on applying materials knowledge in manufacturing and product development within industry settings.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Materials Science jobs in Tennessee?

For Phd Materials Science jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Phd Materials Science jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Phd Materials Science jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Phd Materials Science jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Phd Materials Science job openings:

Phd Materials Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Materials Science job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $112,520 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Materials Science Engineering Fellow - Masters or PhD preferred (6-12 month duration)

Volkswagen AG

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support material science related laboratory work.

  • Support material characterization and training on material characterization equipment.

  • Assist with Life Cycle Assessment and cost calculations of production processes.

Job description

Worldwide, the Volkswagen Group has a long tradition of dramatic innovations. The Volkswagen Group with its headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany is one of the world's leading automobile manufacturers and the largest carmaker in Europe. The Group comprises twelve brands from seven European countries: Volkswagen Passenger Cars, Audi, SEAT, SKODA, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Porsche, Ducati, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Scania and MAN.

Brief Role Description

 At the Innovation & Engineering Center California (IECC), we represent the Volkswagen Group in applied research and development. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, we create bold new ideas for the Volkswagen, Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, Bugatti and Porsche brands. We're a team of engineers, designers, scientists, and psychologists looking to develop innovations for future generations of cars, and to transfer technologies from many industries and research institutions into the automotive domain. Our mission is to drive change which means we are not only impacting one of the world's largest car makers, but also the lives of millions of people. Are you ready to join us? 

The Innovation Hub Knoxville, an organization within Innovation Center California, is responsible for Material Research and Innovation in the North American Region. The intern will be part of the project team working on topics that include but not limited to material characterization, Life Cycle Assessment, and cost calculations of production processes.

Role Responsibilities
  • Support material science related laboratory work.
  • Material characterization equipment training.
  • Support material characterization.
  • Support with Life Cycle Assessment and cost calculations of production processes.
Qualification requirements

Qualifications

  • Must be enrolled at a University/College or Graduation date must be within the last six months.
  • Preference given to Masters or PhD stdents.Automotive, Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial, Aerospace Engineering or comparable field of study.
  • Material characterization knowledge is a benefit.Knowledge in creation Life Cycle Assessment is beneficial.

#LI-DNI

Compensation Data

In Knoxville, Tennessee, the hourly rates for this role are based on level of education:

  • Undergraduate (Junior or Senior): $28/hour
  • Graduate (Master's): $30/hour
  • PhD: $33/hour

Volkswagen's roots in Silicon Valley sprout the tech-driven future of transportation

Volkswagen Group of America is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, and do not discriminate based on race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, color, gender identity/expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws.

This role description is a guideline and does not create contractual rights between the Company and any of its applicants. The Company does not enter into any type of employment contract, implied or written, with its applicants regarding job security.

This Organization participates in E-Verify. We maintain a drug free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

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