Nanotechnologist

Career path and 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.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• 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

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Physics - Nanotechnologists need a deep understanding of how matter behaves at the atomic and molecular level, which is rooted in physics. Concepts like quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and the physical properties of materials are central to understanding and manipulating structures at the nanoscale.
• Chemistry - Nanotechnologists work directly with atoms and molecules, designing new materials by controlling chemical reactions and molecular structures. Understanding bonding, surface chemistry, and how substances interact at tiny scales is essential for creating nanomaterials with specific properties.
• Mathematics - Nanotechnologists use advanced mathematics to analyse experimental data, model how materials behave at the nanoscale, and run computer simulations. Calculus, statistics, and algebra are all used regularly when interpreting results and predicting how new materials will perform.
• Computer Science - Nanotechnologists use computer modelling and simulation to predict how nanoscale materials and devices will behave before building them. Writing code and understanding algorithms is important for running these simulations and analysing large datasets from experiments.
• Electronics - Nanotechnologists often work on miniaturised electronic components, such as nanoscale computer chips and sensors. Understanding circuits, semiconductors, and how electronic devices function helps them design and develop the next generation of ultra-small technology.

Also relevant

• Engineering - Nanotechnologists apply engineering principles when designing instruments that operate at tiny scales and developing ways to scale up nanomaterials for commercial production. The problem-solving and design thinking used in engineering are directly relevant to turning laboratory discoveries into real-world products.
• Biology - Nanotechnologists working in healthcare and biotechnology need to understand how biological systems work at the cellular and molecular level. Applications like targeted drug delivery systems and biosensors require knowledge of how nanomaterials interact with living tissue.
• Design and Technology - Nanotechnologists design and build instruments and devices that work at incredibly small scales, which involves prototyping and iterative design. Understanding materials, manufacturing processes, and how to turn a concept into a functional product supports this practical side of the work.
• English Language - Nanotechnologists write up detailed research findings, publish scientific articles, and present their work to colleagues and industry partners. Being able to communicate complex ideas clearly and precisely – both in writing and in presentations – is an important part of the role.