Physicist

You may be able to start on a company's graduate training scheme after completing your degree or postgraduate qualification.

You'll need:

• maths knowledge
• knowledge of physics
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• analytical thinking skills
• science skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• thinking and reasoning skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Depending on the area of industry you work in, in this role you may:

• be involved in climate forecasting
• develop new medical instruments and treatments
• work in satellite technology and space exploration
• investigate new ways to generate power
• explore robotics and artificial intelligence
• teach in schools, colleges or universities
• use your knowledge to work in publishing, broadcasting or journalism

You could work in a workshop, in a factory or in a laboratory.

Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time and you may spend nights away from home.

You may need to wear protective clothing.

Career tips

You may have an advantage if you've got relevant work experience. You could get this through a work placement as part of your degree or during vacations, or a scheme like the Year in Industry programme.

Further information

You can find out more about careers in physics through the Institute of Physics.