Material Science

Materials science is the discovery of new materials with novel structures, functions, and properties. In this area of science, researchers study the chemical, physical, atomic, and magnetic properties of an existing material, and use that knowledge to create new materials with ideal properties. By designing and creating new materials, researchers at our national labs and universities can solve complex engineering challenges and enable the development of new technologies. Federal agencies ranging from the Department of Defense to the National Science Foundation and DOE are pursuing research in this area because the value to our end users is clear. By tailor-making materials for a specific use, scientists can create materials that increase efficiency and better store energy; reduce the environmental impacts and improve the safety of energy production technologies; develop stronger and more resilient artificial joints; improve high performance computing systems; and better protect our soldiers and athletes in the field.