Physicists are involved in the experimental investigation and theoretical analysis of matter, energy and force. Physicists can work in sectors ranging from telecommunications and finance, to medicine and engineering. The role of a physicist can include:

• researching conditions on earth and other planets, and building satellites
• forecasting the weather
• working with doctors and computing specialists in medicine to help diagnose or treat patients
• inspecting factories or other places of work to monitor radiation emissions and ensure safe disposal of radioactive waste
• designing, creating and testing new materials and products
• identifying new ways to generate power
• developing new internet or other communications technology
• improving performance and safety in transport industries
• teaching in schools, colleges or universities
• using knowledge in the media, in broadcasting or journalism.

Physicists devise simulations and models, design and conduct experiments, and write up their observations and findings in reports and scientific papers. They occasionally present their work at scientific meetings or conferences.

Some physicists will have a supervisory role, supporting staff and overseeing administrative work. Those working in a university or a teaching hospital will be involved in teaching and mentoring students.

Hours and Environment

Physicists normally work 37.5 hours a week, Monday to Friday; evening and weekend work is common. Academics working in universities and researchers in industry regularly work extra hours. Jobs providing a round-the-clock service such as in the NHS may involve shifts, nights, or on-call work.

Physicists can work in laboratories and workshops, in offices, factories and out in the field. Physicists work with complex and expensive electronic equipment and computers. Protective clothing may be worn to prevent contamination and avoid contact with hazardous substances. Fieldwork may involve travel and periods away from home.

Skills and Interests

To be a physicist, you should:

• have an enquiring mind, and be able to think clearly and logically
• be good at problem solving, with a methodical and analytical approach to the work
• be able to work to a high degree of accuracy
• be able to work in and lead a team of professionals
• have excellent communication skills
• be able to make presentations and write reports, scientific papers and grant applications
• understand statistics and relevant computer packages.

Entry

You will usually need a degree and possibly a postgraduate qualification before applying for a research post. It will also be an advantage for you to have some relevant work experience; this can be gained during a year out or through vacation work.

The entry requirements for a degree course in physics usually include five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) plus two or three A levels/three or four H grades, including physics and maths. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

It is possible to work in physics as a technician, for which you are likely to need at least four GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3). Increasingly, however, technicians have A levels/H grades or a relevant BTEC HNC/HND, foundation degree or degree.

Training

As a physicist or technician you are likely to receive on-the-job training in new techniques and IT developments, health and safety regulations, personal development and supervisory skills.

If you do not already hold a relevant postgraduate qualification, you may be encouraged to do a higher degree or take exams for membership or fellowship of a professional body. To become a medical physicist, for example, you must complete an Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM) accredited two-year programme which combines studying for an MSc with on-the-job training.

As a physicist you will be encouraged to pursue Continuing Professional Development (CPD), keeping up-to-date with your specialist area of work throughout your career. Professional bodies such as the Institute of Physics (IOP) provide advice, information and learning opportunities which can help towards CPD.

Experienced and qualified physicists may be able to work towards Chartered Physicist (CPhys) or Chartered Scientist (CSci) status. Check the IOP and Science Council websites for details; see Further Information.

Technicians can study for relevant NVQ/SVQs at levels 2, 3 or 4 in subjects such as laboratory and associated technical activities. Alternatively, you can work towards a BTEC National award, BTEC HNC/HND, foundation degree or degree in a science subject.

Apprenticeships may be available for those under the age of 24. In England these are currently Apprenticeships (level 2) and Advanced Apprenticeships (level 3). To find out more about these, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk

Apprenticeships may be different in other areas. For further information see Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland

Opportunities

Physicists are employed by government research establishments and in areas such as transport, aerospace, opto-electronics, robotics, semiconductors, computing and power generation. Others work for the NHS (as clinical scientists/medical physicists), the National Radiological Protection Board, the Health and Safety Executive, and the Meteorological Office.

Some physicists move into technical sales and marketing, the media, information science, patent work, education, and interactive science centres.

Relocation may be necessary for career progression.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

The starting salary for a physicist can be between £19,000 and £25,000 a year.
Physicists with experience, professional training and qualifications can earn up to around £32,000.
Senior physicists, or managers, can earn up to £40,000.

Outside of the NHS, the salary for a trained physicist may be greater than that mentioned above.

Further information

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