A study conducted in a materials science R&D lab reveals significant impacts of AI on scientific research and innovation. Key findings show substantial productivity gains, with AI-assisted researchers discovering 44% more materials, increasing patent filings by 39%, and boosting product innovation by 17%. However, these benefits were unevenly distributed, with top performers seeing the greatest gains. Despite increased productivity, 82% of scientists reported reduced job satisfaction due to decreased creativity and skill underutilization. The study highlights the need for balancing AI integration with maintaining scientific curiosity and job satisfaction. It also emphasizes the importance of human judgment and expertise in leveraging AI effectively, suggesting potential long-term impacts on workforce composition and scientific careers.