Physicist

Introduction

Physicists study the Earth and the universe, in terms of matter, force and energy. They may be employed by academic bodies or government departments. In manufacturing, they may work for aerospace, energy, telecommunications or engineering companies.

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Work Activities

Physicists study the Earth and the universe, in terms of matter, force and energy. They explain the world around us, for example, by finding out more about the particles we are made of. Physicists also develop the use of science and technology in everyday life.

Research into energy is increasingly important to the environment. Physicists may study and develop alternative ways to produce energy, for example, from solar, tidal or wind power. Some physicists make sure nuclear energy is produced safely. Research into energy sources involves fieldwork, for example, to measure wave energy.

Most opportunities for physicists are in manufacturing, technology and engineering. For example, in the transport industry, some physicists develop cars that make better use of fuel, or are safer and quieter. In the aerospace industry, physicists research and develop lighter, stronger and safer aircraft, spacecraft and satellites. They may work on commercial or military equipment.

Physicists play an important role in health services. Medical physicists prevent, diagnose and treat disease. They use calculated and measured doses of radiation to treat cancer, avoiding damage to healthy tissue. They may work with lasers to treat blindness, cancer, or to support surgery.

Some physicists work with universities to develop computer models of parts of our bodies, for example, the heart, using their knowledge of biophysics to design new materials to be used in 'spare part' surgery.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

As a physicist, you will need mathematical ability and a good knowledge of physics and computing skills. To design complex experiments, you will need to be both practical and imaginative. You must have a logical, enquiring mind, and good powers of concentration, observation and perseverance.

You need to be able to explain ideas clearly, both verbally and in writing, and work as part of a team.

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Pay and Opportunities

Salaries for physicists vary.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Physicists earn in the range of £22,500 - £30,000 a year, rising to £35,500 - £42,000. Higher earners can make around £50,500 a year. Higher salaries are available depending on employer, role and responsibilities Physicists usually work 35-39 hours a week, Monday to Friday. However, early starts, late finishes, shifts and weekend work may be required, especially as deadlines approach or where call-outs are necessary.

Physicists are employed in a wide range of roles in many different industries. These include manufacturing, construction, engineering, pharmaceuticals, information technology, meteorology, climatology, plastics, oil and gas industries.

There are also opportunities in forensic science, in the National Health Service (NHS), in university research departments and in local and national government departments.

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Adult Opportunities

It is now illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Some entrants have gained relevant skills and abilities during industrial work placements.

If you don't have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course (eg, Access to Science) could be the way in.

You don't usually need any qualifications to enter an Access course, though you should check this with the course provider.

Distance learning is available from the Open University, with a BSc degree in Natural Sciences with Physics.

Financial support for postgraduate study and research is available through universities from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Particle Physics and Astronomy Research Council (PPARC).

• 2% of people in physics careers work part-time.
• 15% have flexible hours.
• 7% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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New Developments

Some people working in this occupation may be involved in the green jobs sector in areas such as renewable energy or waste management.