Nanotechnologist
Nanotechnologists perform a broad range of research on a molecular level and help create innovative ways to improve areas like medical care and electronic manufacturing.
Nanotechnologist is the professional in the field of Nanotechnology who deal with the design and manufacture of extremely small electronic circuits and mechanical devices built at the molecular level of matter.
Nanotechnology is the science of the miniature and is being regarded as the technology of the future. Nanotechnology is being considered as that field of science and technology which will lead to the greatest technological advances of the twenty-first century.
Similar Title: Nanotechnology Engineer
Job Overview
Salary
Workplace
How to Start
Job Overview
What does a Nanotechnologist do?
A nanotechnologist is an individual who manipulates atoms and molecules to create new materials. The work involves taking tiny samples of matter and incorporating other science disciplines, like physics and engineering, to produce a different or newer version of a product.
They use a device called a nanometer to quantify nanoparticles or nanomaterials during many of their experiments. For example, they can measure the thickness of human hair in nanometers, and calculate how many of those nanometers make up an inch.
The size of the particles also gives nanotechnologists the ability to alter and design new materials at the smallest level, which creates opportunities to produce more efficient products. Some products they have already introduced include medical equipment and electronic devices
Since nanotechnology is a fairly new area in the science field, technologists are continuing their research to provide data that highlight their successes in technology and other areas.
Design Skills
Nanotechnologists contribute to the design of commercial or industrial products containing nanomaterials. They incorporate technical specs and economic considerations into material designs.
Testing Procedures
These engineers create and reevaluate the testing procedures for materials. They also determine the safety environmental impact of nanomaterials.
Labs & Reports
These engineers prepare labs for testing nanomaterials. They also produce reports, white papers and other documentation to support all findings. These labs and reports are reviewed by supervisors.
Team Player
Nanotechnologists oversee the work of other engineers and scientists. They are also responsible for training colleagues and other staff on how to operate certain equipment and devices.
Salary
How much does a Nanotechnologist make?
The average annual pay for a Nanotechnology Engineer in the United States is $95,023 a year. Salaries can be as high as $152,000 and as low as $25,500, the majority of Nanotechnology Engineer salaries currently range between $80,000 (25th percentile) to $102,500 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $129,000 annually across the United States.
These are 2025 national salary averages and may fluctuate based on location.
Workplace
What does the workplace for a Nanotechnologist look like?
Nanotechnologists typically work in laboratories that are clean, well-lighted, and outfitted with the latest technology. Others work in cleanrooms in which they must wear protective suits. In academic and government research laboratories, nanotechnologists work a standard 40-hour week, Monday through Friday. In private industry, they may be required to work occasional nights and weekends to meet project deadlines. They sometimes work in industrial settings, such as aerospace, defense, electronics and pharmaceutical companies, depending on their education and skill level. They may also work in independent laboratories or universities, either as a researcher or educator.How to Start
How to become a Nanotechnologist?
There are certain qualifications necessary in order to become a nanotechnologist. Most companies or government agencies will require a PhD in biophysics, bioengineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or another field similar to these. There are some jobs that can be attained with just a master’s degree, but they are harder to find and do not pay as generously as those given to engineers with PhDs.
Teamwork is crucial in this field, as engineers are responsible for directing and guiding other engineers in most workplace environments. Though the field is very self-motivated, having strong personal skills to work within this competitive team setting is an absolute must.
Companies looking for nanotechnologists expect a candidate to be able to work with global partners and to be able to think with a business-oriented mind. They look for candidates that have excellent leadership skills with a strong knack for problem solving, even on a highly complex level. Public speaking skills are a necessity, as engineers in nanotechnology will have to make announcements about advancements to insiders and outsiders, as well as write reports and essays for the purpose of publication in intellectual and scientific journals.
