How to become a physicist

Pathways to this career

1. While a degree in science will help you achieve your goals, a dual degree in physics and mathematics is recommended.
2. Investigate problems, theories and discussions with a postgraduate degree. Research fellowships are available to honours and PhD graduates.
3. Hoping to build on your current career? Completing a PhD means you get to specialise in a particular field of research.
4. Become a member of organisations like The Australian Institute of Physics and stay up-to-date with the latest research.
5. Make connections within the science community and collaborate with peers.

What does a physicist do?

Physicists are scientists who specialise in the study of physics. Their work includes teaching and research at universities and research institutions. In addition to theoretical work, physicists can apply their knowledge to developing new technologies and solving practical problems.

Duties and tasks

• Create new technologies, processes, and materials through experiments.
• Conduct experiments to test existing theories and develop new theories.
• Apply and expand knowledge of topics including thermodynamics, classical and quantum mechanics, and astronomy.
• Study the formation and evolution of the universe, planets, stars etc.
• Teach astronomy, physics, or astrophysics classes.
• Work on independent or team research projects and write reports on your findings.
• Write papers for scientific journals and present these at conferences and seminars.

Industry bodies

• Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers Australia
• The Australian Institute of Physics

Related jobs and job titles

• Astronomer
• Astrophysicist
• Atmospheric and Environmental Physicist
• Cosmologist
• Geophysicist
• Materials Scientist
• Mathematician
• Meteorologist
• Nanotechnologist
• Nuclear Physicist