Physicists

What physicists do

Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.

Typical tasks

1. 1Analyze data from research conducted to detect and measure physical phenomena.
2. 2Report experimental results by writing papers for scientific journals or by presenting information at scientific conferences.
3. 3Perform complex calculations as part of the analysis and evaluation of data, using computers.
4. 4Describe and express observations and conclusions in mathematical terms.
5. 5Collaborate with other scientists in the design, development, and testing of experimental, industrial, or medical equipment, instrumentation, and procedures.
6. 6Observe the structure and properties of matter, and the transformation and propagation of energy, using equipment such as masers, lasers, and telescopes, to explore and identify the basic principles governing these phenomena.
7. 7Write research proposals to receive funding.
8. 8Design computer simulations to model physical data so that it can be better understood.
9. 9Teach physics to students.
10. 10Develop theories and laws on the basis of observation and experiments, and apply these theories and laws to problems in areas such as nuclear energy, optics, and aerospace technology.

Technology used

• Eclipse IDE
• Python
• Adobe Photoshop
• Amazon Web Services AWS software
• Ansible software
• Autodesk AutoCAD
• C
• C++
• Extensible markup language XML
• Git
• JavaScript
• Linux

How to become one

Education

The most common level among workers surveyed is a doctoral degree (49%). Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).

Experience

Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.

Training

Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.