You'll usually need a degree or a postgraduate master's qualification in nanotechnology, or a related course which includes nanotechnology.

Relevant courses include:

• nanoscience
• physics
• chemistry
• electronics engineering
• materials science
• computer science

Some employers may expect you to have, or be working towards, a PhD. This is especially so in the fields of medicine and healthcare nanotechnology.

Employers value work experience. It may help to study for a degree that includes research experience in the industry you want to work in. You could look for work placements with nanotechnology companies.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

It may be possible to start as a nanotechnology research assistant or graduate industrial scientist after leaving university. You would usually need to study part time for a PhD while you work.

UK Research and Innovation and industrial companies sometimes offer studentships. This would give you the opportunity to do a PhD while getting practical research experience.

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

As a nanotechnologist, you could:

• investigate how materials behave at the nanoscale - 1 billionth of a metre
• analyse experimental data
• design instruments that can work at tiny scales
• simulate nanotechnology applications using computer modelling
• develop ways to manipulate materials and create new systems and devices
• write up and present research findings and publish articles
• work closely with industry to scale up commercial production

You could work in a laboratory.

You may need to wear protective clothing.