Astrophysicist
Astrophysicists answer the big questions of the universe by studying the behaviour of objects in space.
About the job
What it's like
Do you ever look up at space and wonder how it all works? How do stars form? What are galaxies made of? How did it all get there? That's where astrophysicists come in!
They're cosmic detectives. By using physics, they piece together the mysteries of the universe. Your job would be to examine the stuff that makes up the night sky and beyond. From tiny particles to huge galaxies, you'll help us understand how space works.
You'll spend your days analysing data collected by giant telescopes, spacecraft, and satellites. Your work could involve trying to spot patterns in starlight. You might untangle the forces at play in a black hole. Or maybe you'll search for planets that could support life!
Curious about a cosmic career? You'll need to love a challenge and have a good grasp of maths, physics and computer programming.
Your tasks might include:
collecting and analysing data from different instruments, telescopes and space missions
measure things in space like radiation, the movement of objects and the behaviour of particles
developing computer models
writing research papers and presenting your findings
explaining complex information in a simple way
keeping up with the latest discoveries
applying existing theories to physical phenomena
lecturing or working with students
collaborating with other scientists around the world
attending conferences
Hours
Your hours would depend on the type of job you do and what you're working on at the time.
Many people in this role work between 35 and 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. You might have to work late into the night at times. For example, to finish a report or to keep an eye on an experiment.
Environment
You could work in a variety of environments. For example: laboratories; offices;; observatories; museums; colleges and universities; and planetariums
Most astrophysicists are academics. You’d likely work for a university or a publicly funded organisation such as a space agency.
You'll spend a lot of time working in offices with computers. You'll also work with equipment in workshops and laboratories. You might work alongside groups from all over the world.
Travel
You may have to travel locally, for example between an office and laboratory. You might also travel abroad, for example to attend conferences.
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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.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- attention to detail
- written communication
- problem solving
- working with numbers
- analysing
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 each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Physics
Maths (Mathematics)
Computing Science
You'll likely need a postgraduate qualification such as a master's degree or a PhD to work as an astrophysicist.
To get into a degree course in astrophysics, you'd need at least
four Highers at AAAA including maths and physics
a C in Nat 5 English
Other useful degrees for this career are:
aerospace engineering
astronomy and maths
engineering
physics
An honours degree in a relevant subject would allow you to study astrophysics at postgraduate level.
Knowing more about the industry and how others got into it will help you plot your path.
You could try connecting with people studying astrophysics or those already in the industry online. Check out public talks and events held by the Royal Astronomical Society. This could be a way for you to engage with people online or in person.
The space industry can be very competitive, getting into graduate scheme can be a great way in. Read more about the European Space Agency's Young Graduate Trainee Programme.
Good technical skills and knowledge of IT. You'll use complex computer systems and software in this role so you need to be handy with technology.
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