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What are some differences between the life of a material scientist and electrical engineer in industry versus research?

I am interested in Materials Science + Electrical Engineer joint major, but I'm not sure if it is an interest strong enough to pursue that major. I mean, it is fascinating, but I am unsure whether I would do industry, or research, or only focus on electrical engineering as a profession. #engineering #electrical-engineering #materials-science

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Brian’s Answer

Though I have been in Finance and Cyber-Security; I have a double major in English and Economics, and have had a clean-tech materials start-up.

I tell anyone I know that a double major really opens doors, the most interesting areas today are the interstitial areas between traditional disciplines.

If you are fascinated with any intersection, I'll guarantee that there will be something there, worthwhile to the world.

Especially in materials science!

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Sharon’s Answer

As an Electrical Engineer - your options vary as far as research focus and/or industry focus. There is a significant need for Electrical Engineers in Radio Access Network for cell phones and the supporting switches and tools required to design and troubleshoot the cellular network. Other popular areas for electrical engineers are developing tools to assist with software development. Managing the power systems providing power and electricity to homes and business are another area hiring electrical engineers. There is also plenty of research in all areas of engineering- software, improving efficiencies of most existing electronics and appliances.

Material Science Engineers are being sought at a much higher rate when compared to 10 or 15 years ago. There is more focus on better materials to improve efficiency and improve insulation to allow higher throughput for existing switches, computer systems and large machines/equipment. These positions tend to be more research centric.

Sharon recommends the following next steps:

Places like Texas Instruments, CISCO and Intel are good examples of companies leveraging Material Science Engineers and Electrical Engineers.
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