Physicist

Career path and progression

With experience, you can lead and manage the work of a research team. This could be in one of many different areas, for example:

• education, teaching the scientists of tomorrow
• materials science, investigating the properties of superconductors
• energy engineering, developing alternative fuels
• medical research, building more sensitive scanners
• aerospace, designing instruments for satellite systems

Physicists play an important role in the economy. You can learn more about the different career options from the Institute of Physics.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of physics
• maths knowledge
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• to be flexible and open to change
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to use your initiative
• persistence and determination
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Physics - Physicists study the fundamental behaviour of matter, energy, forces, and the universe itself – physics is the core of everything they do. They design experiments, develop theories, and apply principles from mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum physics, and thermodynamics to solve problems and make new discoveries.
• Mathematics - Physicists use advanced mathematics every day to build models, analyse data, and express the laws of nature in precise equations. From calculus and differential equations to statistics and linear algebra, maths is the language physicists use to describe and predict how the universe works.
• Computer Science - Physicists build computer simulations and use programming to model complex systems, from particle interactions to climate patterns. Writing code to process large datasets, run numerical calculations, and visualise results is a routine part of modern physics research.

Also relevant

• Chemistry - Physicists working in areas like materials science or energy engineering need to understand atomic structure, bonding, and how substances interact at a molecular level. Chemistry and physics overlap significantly when investigating the properties of new materials such as superconductors or alternative fuels.
• Engineering - Physicists often apply their knowledge to engineering challenges, such as designing satellite instruments, developing medical scanners, or building experimental equipment. Understanding engineering principles helps them turn theoretical ideas into practical devices and systems.
• Biology - Physicists working in medical physics or biophysics need to understand how the human body works. For example, building more sensitive medical scanners requires knowledge of how radiation interacts with living tissue.
• Electronics - Physicists frequently design and build experimental apparatus that relies on electronic sensors, detectors, and circuits. Understanding how electronic components work is important when setting up instruments to measure physical phenomena with precision.
• Environmental Science - Physicists can apply their skills to understanding atmospheric and oceanic systems, interpreting satellite data, and predicting environmental changes. Knowledge of environmental science provides useful context for physicists working on climate research or pollution reduction technologies.