How to become Materials and Trends Researcher and Developer

How to become

Materials and Trends Researcher and Developer

MATERIALS AND TRENDS RESEARCHER AND DEVELOPER

Who is a Materials and Trends Researcher and Developer, what do they do, and how to become one

Who is the Materials and Trends Researcher and Developer?

The Materials and Trends Researcher and Developer is a key professional figure responsible for ensuring innovation and competitiveness for companies. This role involves exploring, testing, and developing new materials, as well as monitoring emerging trends in the target market. With their in-depth knowledge of available raw materials and production technologies, they are able to propose innovative solutions that meet the aesthetic, technical, functional, and sustainable needs of both consumers and the brand. Moreover, they contribute to making production processes more sustainable and efficient than ever before. Their focus on new market trends makes this professional particularly significant in today’s industry, where the constant search for innovation is essential to stand out from the competition and respond to the changing needs of consumers.

What does a Materials and Trends Researcher and Developer do?

The Materials and Trends Researcher and Developer carries out a series of key activities that range from pure research to applied development. Their work begins with the constant search for new materials, which can come from various sectors such as the textile, chemical, or even biotechnological industries, while also monitoring global trends to anticipate consumer preferences. They then carefully evaluate the technical characteristics of the selected raw materials—such as durability, breathability, water resistance, weight, and environmental sustainability—and their applicability in terms of aesthetics and functionality. Following this, they work closely with designers to integrate the chosen materials into collections, ensuring that they meet the necessary technical and stylistic requirements, and developing prototypes to be tested in real-use conditions. Finally, they ensure that sustainable production processes are adhered to, in line with market demand for more environmentally friendly products.

What skills does a Materials and Trends Researcher and Developer need to have?

A Materials and Trends Researcher and Developer must possess a variety of skills:

In-depth knowledge of materials: they must have a thorough understanding of the chemical and physical properties of materials such as leather, fabrics, synthetic, and innovative materials.
Trend analysis abilities: they need to be able to anticipate trends to guide the development of new collections that align with market demands.
Familiarity with sustainability topics: given the growing demand for eco-friendly products, they must be able to identify and develop sustainable materials and processes.
Experimental mindset and problem-solving skills: they should be inclined to experiment, constantly testing new solutions and finding innovative responses to technical and production challenges.
Teamwork capabilities: they need to be able to collaborate effectively with other professionals in the industry, such as designers and production technicians, to successfully integrate new materials into production processes.

How to become a Materials and Trends Researcher and Developer?

To become a Materials and Trends Researcher and Developer, it is essential to pursue a specialised educational path that combines creativity, technical knowledge, and a deep understanding of materials and production technologies within the fashion industry. The first step is to opt for an academic programme focused on the study of innovative materials, advanced production techniques, sustainability, and trend analysis. The courses offered by NABA in the Fashion Design Area are an excellent fit for the needs of a future Materials and Trends Researcher and Developer, particularly the Master in Sneaker Design, which provides a solid theoretical foundation and offers opportunities for internships with leading companies in the sector. It is equally important to build a professional portfolio that demonstrates the technical and creative skills acquired. Additionally, actively attending industry fairs and events is crucial for networking, discovering the latest technological innovations, and staying updated on the evolving trends in the fashion industry.

What to study to become a Product Developer in Footwear?

Academic Master in Sneaker Design

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