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How to become a Physicist

Physicist jobs

351

Physicist courses

Career progression and salary expectations for a Physicist

Postdoctoral Researcher

| Up to £36,000

Research Scientist

| Up to £42,000

Senior Researcher

| Up to £70,000

The role of a Physicist

What does a Physicist do?

Looking for a job that you can really bond to? You should become a Physicist…

Physicists use research, analysis, and experimental physics to study the interaction of energy and matter within the physical universe. They use this increased understanding to help improve various aspects of human life.

The specific nature of a Physicist’s role will depend on the industry and field they work in, but their research could help to develop a range of useful technologies – from satellites and robotics, to medical instruments and treatments. Specialisms within a field include theoretical analysis, where Physicists use computer systems and advanced mathematics to provide scientific explanations, or experimental research, where they design and carry out experiments to prove theories.

Duties will vary dependent on the industry, but general tasks for a Physicist could include:

Teaching at a school or University
Conducting research
Building and maintaining specialist equipment
Designing and carrying out scientific experiments based on research
Finding out new ways to produce energy
Working within climate forecasting
Writing reports and papers for journals
Specialising in other fields such as medicine, robotics, or space exploration

Is a career as a Physicist right for me?

Aside from a natural curiosity about how the world works, you’ll also need to have excellent scientific and mathematical skills to become a successful Physicist.

And, because of the research and analysis elements of the job, a meticulous work ethic alongside logical thinking is equally essential.Physicists will also often be required to work away from home when carrying out fieldwork, so flexibility in terms of working hours and location is a must.

Other essential skills for a Physicist include:

Excellent verbal and written skills
A working knowledge of computer packages and statistics
An ability to think critically and solve problems
A high level of accuracy
Great team working skills
Project management expertise

What's it like to be a Physicist?

"After studying applied physics at University, I was lucky enough to be funded to do a PhD. These days, I’m a Research Scientist in medicine, and I really love it. Every day brings a new theory or hypothesis to research, which means there’s a new experiment to design and a problem to solve. And, the results mean we’re that bit closer to discovering cures to diseases and equipment that could help save people’s lives. It can be quite stressful at times, but as long you’re motivated by a natural curiosity for what you’re doing, it’s easy to power through even if the results aren’t always what you expected."

Get qualified as a Physicist

A degree in physics or a similar science subject is usually a prerequisite. Higher level positions may also require MSc and/or PhD qualifications.

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