Studies the properties and uses of non-metallic materials and advises on the technical aspects of their manufacture and processing.

Tasks Include:

• studies the properties of non-metallic materials such as ceramics, polymers and plastics, composite materials and rubbers
• manages and performs laboratory investigations, testing and evaluations of materials and products
• plans and undertakes experimental production of non-metallic materials
• determines criteria for the selection of non-metallic materials, and establishes the requirements for protection against deterioration
• consults with other scientists and engineers on the development and production of non-metallic materials