Structure
Materials scientists study how materials are made from the atomic scale on up. Atoms can be combined into crystals, molecules, or amorphous networks.
Properties
Materials scientists figure out how the properties of materials are controlled by their structure and devise ways to make materials better.
Synthesis
Materials scientists figure out how to make materials better and cheaper. With the fine control offered by nanotechnology, individual atoms can be manipulated.
Performance
Ultimately, materials scientists work to make materials that perform better in all possible applications. From airplanes to musical instruments, alternative energy sources to ecologically-friendly manufacturing processes, medical devices to artificial tissues, computer chips to data storage media, materials scientists work in all industries and all kinds of institutions to make life better. 
