Physicist

What is this job like?		Back to Top

Physicists study the natural world, from the tiniest subatomic particles to the largest galaxies. They do experiments to discover the laws of nature. They study what things are made of (matter) and how things behave. They also study energy. They learn how it changes from one form to another.

Some physicists focus on theories. They ask big and difficult questions. They might ask what causes gravity, for example, or what the shape and size of the universe is. Then, they use observation and mathematics to find the answers.

Many physicists do experiments. Some, for example, ram atoms into each other in an accelerator to break them apart. They look for clues about what particles come out of atoms when they split.

Other physicists apply theories to practical problems. They might create advanced materials, new electronic and optical devices, or medical equipment.

Physicists also design research equipment. Some of this equipment is used in surprising ways. For example, the first laser was created for research, but people later discovered that lasers could be used in surgery as well.

Most physicists work in research and development. Some do basic research to increase knowledge. Others do applied research. They take what is learned in basic research and use it to create new devices, products, and processes.

Astronomy is sometimes considered a part of physics. Astronomers study the stars, planets, and other parts of the cosmos.

Physicists often work regular hours in labs and offices. At times, they may work long or irregular hours doing research. They may travel to use special equipment in other places.

How do you get ready?		Back to Top

You usually need a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) to work as a physicist. After four years of college, you must spend at least another four years studying at a university in order to complete a doctoral degree. People who want permanent jobs in basic research at universities and government labs need even more training. Many Ph.D. holders teach at colleges or universities

People with a master's degree in physics often get jobs in manufacturing and applied research and development. Some teach in high schools or at 2-year colleges.

Those with a bachelor's degree often work as technicians or research assistants. Some may be able to work in applied research jobs in private industry or in nonresearch positions in the government. Some become science teachers in middle schools or high schools.

If you want to be a physicist, you should study math and science. You must be good at solving problems. And you should be curious.

Physicists are self-starters. Speaking and writing abilities are also important. Sometimes, physicists have to write research papers or proposals. And some physicists share ideas while working in a team.

How much does this job pay?		Back to Top

The middle half of all physicists earned between $72,910 and $117,080 in 2006. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $52,070. The highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $143,570.

How many jobs are there?		Back to Top

There were about 18,000 physicist and astronomer jobs in 2006. About 38 percent of these jobs were in scientific research and development services firms. Another 21 percent worked for the Federal Government, mostly in the Department of Defense or the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Others worked in colleges and universities, usually in research. Some were on the faculty at colleges and universities.

Physicists and astronomers worked in all parts of the country. Most worked in areas that had universities or large research and development laboratories.

What about the future?		Back to Top

Employment of physicists is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through 2016. Still, competition for most jobs will be tough. The limited amount of money available for research means that physicists will have to compete for basic research jobs. But there will continue to be demand for people with physics knowledge to work with computers and in other applied sciences.

Are there other jobs like this?		Back to Top

• Atmospheric scientists
• Chemists
• Civil engineers
• Computer programmers
• Computer scientists
• Database administrators
• Electrical engineers
• Environmental scientists
• Geoscientists
• Mathematicians
• Systems analysts

Where can you find more information?		Back to Top

More BLS information about physicists and astronomers can be found in the Occupational Outlook Handbook. The Handbook also shows where to find out even more about this job.

Last Modified Date: April 29, 2008