Physicist
Study the world around us and the scientific laws that make objects behave as they do.
About the job
Salary
Source: National Careers Service
Weekly
£538
Entry level
£981
Experienced
Monthly
£2,333
Entry level
£4,250
Experienced
Yearly
£28,000
Entry level
£51,000
Experienced
3,700
people are currently employed
High growth
200 more jobs in 5 years
These figures refer to this job and similar ones with comparable skills and qualifications. They only apply to Scotland. Source: Oxford Economics
What it's like
You'd study the world around us and the scientific laws that make objects behave as they do. Your research would help develop all kinds of technology.
If you worked in theoretical analysis you'd come up with theories. You'd run models to predict and explain behaviours.
If you worked in experimental pure and applied research you'd carry out experiments to put theories to the test.
You could specialise in many different fields.
For example, you might:
work on climate forecasting
improve medical processes
develop analytical tools
work on satellites and space exploration
find new ways to generate power
work with robots and artificial intelligence
teach in schools, colleges or universities
work in publishing, broadcasting or journalism
You'd write up your findings in reports for project managers, scientific journals and funding bodies. You might also present your work at scientific meetings and conferences.
It'd be important to have a good understanding of statistics and relevant computer software.
Hours
Environment
Travel
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Here are some of the skills you'll need to do this job:
- understanding
- taking initiative
- developing a plan
- researching
- observation
- problem solving
- written communication
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore the sections shown for more information about getting into this career.
You might have qualifications which are not shown here but will allow you access to a course. You can compare your qualifications by looking at their SCQF Level. For more information about this, check out the SCQF website.
Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you'll need.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Computing Science
Engineering Science
Mathematics
Physics
Applications of Mathematics
You'd need a degree (SCQF Level 9/10) in a subject such as physics or applied physics. Or in a related science such as engineering, mathematics or astronomy.
Most physicists also have postgraduate qualifications such as a Master of Science (MSc) or a Doctoral degree (SCQF Level 11/12).
Entry requirements for courses vary. For undergraduate courses, you'd need at least four Highers at B or above. Some universities may require four Highers at AAAA taken in one sitting. An Advanced Higher in Maths would be useful.
Some universities offer an integrated Master's (SCQF Level 11) which combines a degree and Master's course over five years.
You might be able to gain entry to a degree course with an HND in Applied Science (SCQF Level 7).
Edinburgh College offers an Access to Physical Science (SWAP) course which allows people with few or no formal qualifications to move towards a degree.
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