Earl Dumitru, PhD
Chemist
Magma-Seal, Inc.

Educational path
PhD in Chemistry, as well as MA and BA

Special training for nanotechnology
Polymer science

Tips/Advice to jumpstart a career in nanotechnology
Nanotechnology is a technology that builds up from atoms. A background in engineering is important, but I would put a lot of emphasis on chemistry as well, especially if you're dealing with materials. For example, in a single wall carbon nanotube you only have one layer of carbon nanos – you can't even see it but you still need to be able to make it. When working on a molecular level, it's a whole different kind of engineering. As a chemist, I think that if you want to understand a nano molecule, you need to understand the chemistry and biochemistry behind it. You also need skill in physics and mathematics. You need to know how to operate the electron microscope, which is where mathematics comes into play. If you're starting out as early as high-school, I would recommend studying biology, physics, and eventually calculus as much as possible.

Why did you choose the field of nanotechnology?
I was already in Chemistry, and it was easy for me to see where things could be modified and improved. For example, you put carbon blocks into a car tire to make it work, and there is the carbon nanotube that is a hundred times stronger and conducts electricity, which is much better.

How did you first get into nanotechnology?
Improving the filler particles in plastic used on automobiles.

What is it like to work in nanotechnology?
It's like working in Chemistry, only you have different tools, both lab tools and intellectual tools.