Physicist

Description of Work Tasks, Settings and Tools

PHYSICISTS explore and identify the basic principles governing the structure and behavior of matter, the generation and transfer of energy, and the interaction of matter and energy. Some physicists use these principles in theoretical areas, such as the nature of time and the origin of the universe. Other physicists apply their physics knowledge to practical areas, such as the development of advanced materials, electronic and optical devices, and medical equipment.

Physicists design and perform experiments with lasers, cyclotrons, telescopes, mass spectrometers, and other equipment. Based on observations and analysis, physicists try to discover and explain laws describing the forces of nature such as gravity, electromagnetism, and nuclear interactions. Physicists also find ways to apply physical laws and theories to problems in nuclear energy, electronics, optics, materials, communications, aerospace technology, medical instrumentation, navigation equipment, information systems, and medical instruments.

Most physicists work in research and development. Some do basic research to increase scientific knowledge. Physicists who conduct applied research build upon the discoveries made through basic research and work to develop new devices, products, and processes. Physicists also design research equipment. A small number work in inspection, testing, quality control, and other production-related jobs. Others work in engineering, computer science, financial management, and most areas involving technical, scientific, computational, and organizational skills. Most physicists specialize in one of many sub-fields, such as elementary particle physics, nuclear physics, atomic and molecular physics, optics, acoustics, or plasma physics.

PHYSICISTS work in laboratories, classrooms, and offices. They work for:

commercial or non-commercial research, development, and testing laboratories
aerospace firms
colleges and universities in faculty and non-faculty positions
federal and state government
drug companies
hospitals
the military
oil fields
power plants
the automobile industry
electronic equipment manufacturers
engineering services firms
the transportation equipment industry
energy product companies
any industry requiring analytical problem-solving skills

PHYSICISTS work with:

lasers, cyclotrons, telescopes, and mass spectrometers
microwave devices
measuring instruments, and various other equipment and instruments
computers
existing and experimental products
ideas for analysis, discovery, and applications

Training, Related Majors and Advancement

A doctoral degree is the usual educational requirement for PHYSICISTS, because most jobs are in research and development. Additional experience and training in a post-doctoral research assignment, although not required, is important for physicists aspiring to permanent positions in basic research in universities and government laboratories. Many physics Ph.D. holders ultimately teach at the college or university level.

Master's degree holders do not qualify for basic research positions, but do qualify for many kinds of jobs requiring a physics background; including positions in applied research and development, and manufacturing. Physicists with a bachelor's in physics are generally qualified to work in an engineering-related area or other scientific fields; to work as technicians; or to assist in setting up laboratories. Some become science teachers in secondary schools. No special licensing or certification is required for physicists.

The following majors could help you prepare for this occupation:

Astronomy & Astrophysics
Biological & Physical Sciences
Engineering Physics
Physics

Many PHYSICISTS with a doctoral degree begin their careers in a postdoctoral research position, where they may work with experienced physicists as they continue to learn about their specialty and develop ideas and results to be used in later work. Initial work may be under close supervision of senior scientists. After some experience, physicists perform increasingly complex tasks and work more independently. Some may advance to work as project leaders or research directors. Some work in top management positions. Physicists who develop new products or processes sometimes form their own companies or join new firms to advance their own ideas.

Desirable Personal Qualities

Helpful qualities for PHYSICISTS include:
an inquisitive mind
problem-solving skills
analytical skills
an ability to work as part of a team
imagination, initiative, and persistence
an ability to work independently
an ability to communicate their ideas clearly in speech and in writing
mathematical ability
computer skills

Estimated Salary

• Economic Research Institute (survey of salaries in 2005):

National average for all occupations included in this survey: $45,000/year or $21.75/hour

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (survey of salaries in 2004):

National average for all occupations included in this survey: $35,000/year or $16.75/hour

For more information about Physicist you may contact:

American Institute of Physics
One Physics Ellipse
College Park, MD 20740-3843
http://www.aip.org/

American Association of Physics Teachers
One Physics Ellipse
College Park, MD 20740-3845
http://www.aapt.org/

*Information taken from DISCOVER.