Materials scientists do not only want to
know
about
a material's macroscopic properties,
e.g. a material's resistance at high or very low temperatures, it
s electrical and thermal conductivity, its hardness, elasticity and many other properties; a
materials scientist is also interested in the functional properties which are also related to the atomic structure. This knowledge is the starting point to develop new, innovative materials or material combinations and also to improve materials for the industrial needs. A materials scientist will be active in research and development, in quality assurance or in management functions.
Studying materials science and technology at one of the Technical Universities (ETHZ and EPFL) is a special driver for a successful engineering, scientific or management career. Materials science, a cutting edge technology, is highly interdisciplinary and covers the board and complex scope of research, development and production. Advanced materials such as optoelectronic materials, materials for advanced energy applications, lightweight composites for transport applications, optical
fibers for telecommunications, materials for medical application, diagnostics, biosensors as well as bio-inspired materials are to play a primary role in future industrial innovation. Information in this field may be easily obtained - however the real challenge for materials scientists and engineers lies in its evaluation.
The aim of SVMT is to combine the knowledge on research results, industrial innovations and industrial requirements to best fit the needs of the end user. It is therefore necessary to promote information transfer between academia and industry. SVMT is pooling the knowledge of experts in various fields and brings them together in working groups, seminars and conferences. Such events may address a general public as well as individual small- or medium- size companies. SVMT also focuses on awaking the interest in materials science and technology among the young generation (high school and university students) and on supporting students in their search for internships and jobs.
