By spanning from material science to overarching engineering disciplines, the Lab carries out a wide range of studies, including basic study on the application of new metal structure materials basic study on the application of new metal functional materials basic study on the application of new metal energy materials basic study on new technology and new technology of material preparation computer simulation and aided design of metal materials. In terms of research methods, the State Key Lab, with a focus on the core issues concerning the relations between material science and the four elements of engineering activity, conducts research in five major sectors, namely exploration of scientific laws, preparative technique, computational simulation and design, service evaluation and experimental techniques.

In alignment with the latest international development of metal materials, and the demands of the national economy and national defense for metal materials, the Lab conducts basic and applied research to boost both new metal materials research and development and improvement of traditional materials, seeks a comprehensive and systematic understanding of the governing laws, offers new materials prototypes and related technologies, and promotes the commercialization of engineering findings and applications. It passed the National Key Laboratory evaluation (an assessment conducted by the Ministry of Science and Technology every five years) in 1998, 2003, 2008, 2013，and 2018. After four years of construction, study and trial operation, it passed the national acceptance check and officially came into service.

Upon approval from the former Ministry of Metallurgical Industry, it was to be under the management of the University of Science and Technology Beijing, and construction started in 1991. The State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials was approved by State Development Planning Commission and Ministry of Education in 1989.

Key lab