careers in physics booklet

8/8/2019 Careers in Physics Booklet

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Careers in PhysicsCAREERS IN PCAREERS IN PHYSIC

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Careers in Physics

HYSICSCAREERS INSICS

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ContentsWhat is Physics? 2Why Study Physics? 2On a Personal Level 2On a Big Picture Level 2

What Types of Physics Can I Study? 3

Where Can I Study Physics? 3

Where Can I Go with a Physics Degree? 4How Do Different Levels of Study Translate into Employment? 4Teaching Physics 4Astronomy 4Acoustical Physics 4

Astrophysics 4Biophysics 4Condensed Matter Physics 5Fluid and Plasma Physics 5Geophysics 5Health Physics 5Medical Physics 5Nuclear Physics 5Optical Physics 5Science Education 5Technical 5

Will I Get a Job? 6

Who Recruits Physicists? 6

How Much Will I Be Paid? 7

What Can I Do to Find a Job? 7

How Do I Find Work Experience? 8

What About Scholarships and Awards? 8

Do Postgraduate and Further Studies Lead to Better Job Opportunities? 8

For Further Information 9Australia General Information and Jobs 9International Jobs and Professional Associations 9Additional Reading 9


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Physics can be defined as the science of matterand energy, and of interactions between the two.Physics deals with the physical properties, processes,or laws governing these interactions, through thestudy of the natural world and phenomena.

Physicists want to thoroughly understand how the

world works, in every detail and at the deepest level.This includes everything from elementary particles to nuclei, atoms, molecules, macromolecules, livingcells, solids, liquids, gases, plasmas, living organisms, thehuman brain, complex systems, supercomputers, theatmosphere, planets, stars, galaxies, and the universeitself. Physicists study many of todays importantscientific and technological questions, developing newinstrumentation, refining measurement techniques,and modelling.The latter constitute the disciplineof applied physics.With mathematics and chemistryit is commonly known as an enabling science because

it forms the basis for many of the professionaldisciplines, and increasingly commercial ones.

The study of Physics is traditionally groupedinto fields such as acoustics, optics, mechanics,thermodynamics, and electromagnetism, as wellas in modern extensions including atomic andnuclear physics, cryogenics, solid-state physics,particle physics, and plasma physics.There area number of reasons to study physics, not onlyto enhance career prospects, but also forreasons of personal development.

On a Personal LevelA physics education emphasises problem-solving andabstract thinking and this training makes physics graduatesvery desirable employees in a wide variety of areas.Physics graduates can go on to work in high techcompanies, where training in practical subjects suchas optics, lasers, computer interfacing, image processingand electronics can also heighten their appeal.

Personal qualities which the study of physicsrequires include curiosity, imagination, inventivenessand, above all, honesty in dealing with data, theoryand colleagues. An ability to communicate onesideas in spoken and written form is essential andshould be developed.The enjoyment of problem-solving and working with mathematics andcomputers is also important.

On a Big Picture LevelPhysics is an international enterprise which playsa key role in the future progress of humankind.Physics education and research are important, and

an exciting intellectual adventure which expands thefrontiers of our knowledge about Nature. Physicsgenerates fundamental knowledge needed for thefuture technological advances that will drivethe economic engines of the world, as well ascontributing to the technological infrastructure andproviding the training needed to take advantage ofscientific advances and discoveries.

Physics also improves our quality of life by providingthe basic understanding necessary for developingnew instrumentation and techniques for medical

applications, such as computer tomography, magneticresonance imaging, positron emission tomography,ultrasonic imaging, and laser surgery.

What isPhysics?

Why StudyPhysics?


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The range of areas which can be studied inphysics courses is quite large, and includes:

Astrophysics, Chemical Physics, ComputationalPhysics, Condensed Matter Physics Electromagnetism,Fluid Mechanics, Geophysics, Laser Physics,Mathematical Geophysics, Mathematical Physics,

Medical Physics, Nuclear Physics, Optics, QuantumPhysics, Radiation Physics, Physical Electronics,Semiconductor Physics,Theoretical Physics,Thermodynamics and Wave Motion. For moreinformation about these courses, visit some ofthe links listed on the last page of this profile.

Physics Degrees are often combined withEngineering to gain a double degree. It broadensthe range of employment options and gives entryto a wider range of post-graduate studies.

Most Australian Universities offer bachelor andpostgraduate degrees which are either physics-based,or contain a significant degree of physics, and these canrange from medical radiation physics, optoelectronics orgeophysics, to combined degrees such as Science/AsianStudies, Science/Law or Business/Science.Thecomplete list of Australian tertiary institutionsoffering courses with physics components includes:

Australian Defence Force Academy

Australian National University

Avondale College

Central Queensland UniversityCurtin University of Technology

Edith Cowan University

Flinders University of South Australia

Griffith University

James Cook University

La Trobe University

Macquarie University

Monash University

Murdoch University

Northern Territory UniversityQueensland University of Technology

RMIT University

Swinburne University of Technology

University of Adelaide

University of Canberra

University of Melbourne

University of New England

University of New South Wales

University of Newcastle

University of QueenslandUniversity of Southern Queensland

University of Sydney

University of Tasmania

University of Technology, Sydney

University of Western Australia

University of Western Sydney

University of Wollongong

Victoria University

Check out www.dest.gov.au/tenfields or

www.thegoodguides.com.au/searchguide.cfm

for more course information.You should thenvisit the homepages of universities whosePhysics courses you are interested in a full listcan be found ongradlink. Go to www.gradlink.edu.auand click on the Campus Contacts tile.

What Typesof PhysicsCan I Study?

WhereCan I StudyPhysics?


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How Do Different Levels of StudyTranslate into Employment?Generally speaking, a bachelor degree involvingphysics will qualify you for positions such as

research assistant, high level technician, computerspecialist or engineer, as well as non-technicalwork in publishing and sales, howeverpostgraduate degrees will allow for moreresponsibility and advancement. Rememberalso that some organisations will train youin their particular area of industry, for examplemanufacturing electrical devices.

It is always a good idea to combine a basic physicsdegree with further training. Post Doctoral trainingis highly regarded by many employers and is

necessary for teaching positions in Universities.Teaching PhysicsTo teach secondary students you will needa bachelor degree in addition to educationalcertification/licensure, and you can also pursuepostgraduate degrees in other areas such as law,business and accounting to add to your employability.

There are many areas of work and research

accessible to those who have studied physics,

including:

Astronomy teaching, research, writingAstronomy is the the study of objects and matteroutside the earths atmosphere, particularly theirphysical and chemical properties; physics is a vitalpart of astronomy and a specialised group ofphysicists are often referred to as astrophysicists.Some sub-fields include Cosmologists,Astrometrists, Planetologists, Radio Astronomersand Mathematical Astronomers.

Acoustical Physics Research/Development,Testing,Teaching, Consulting, Administration

Acoustical Physics is the Science of Sound;acoustical physicists work in fields relating tophysical, biological and technical acoustics andthe sense of hearing.

Astrophysics Teaching, R&D, Consulting,Astronautics, Administration

Astrophysicists explore the fundamental processesof the universe which underpin astronomicalresearch and the practical use of space.Astrophysicsenhances understanding of the universe as a whole

and therefore of the environment within whichspace vehicles and the earth operate.

Biophysics Teaching, Basic and Applied R&D,Consulting, Administration

Biophysics is the scientific study of the physics oforganisms and biological structure and processes;it is the understanding of physical processes as theyrelate to biological systems, and the application ofphysical tools to solve biological problems.At abasic level it underlies molecular biology.

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Condensed Matter PhysicsResearch/Development,Testing,Teaching,Consulting, Administration

Condensed Matter Physics refers to the bodyof scientific knowledge about the characteristicsdisplayed by different classes of liquids and solids.The uses of this knowledge range from pureapplications such as investigating the quantummechanics of solids, to practical applications likethe manufacture of computer chips.

Fluid and Plasma Physics Teaching, Basicand Applied R&D, Consulting,Administration

Fluid Physics is the study of the motion of fluidsand the effects of this motion, and Plasma Physicsis the study of plasmas quasi-neutral gases ofcharged and neutral particles which exhibit collectivebehaviour. Fluid and Plasma Physics are vital tounderstanding, controlling, and improving manyof our industrial and natural processes.

Geophysics Teaching, Basic and Applied R&D,Consulting, Administration, Exploration

Geophysics involves the application of physicaltheories and measurements to discover theproperties of the earth. Some sub-fields include

seismology, hydrology, meteorology, engineeringgeophysics, petrophysics and mineral exploration.

Health Physics Teaching, Basic and AppliedR&D, Consulting, Administration, Exploration

Health physicists investigate principles by whichnuclear and other radiation interacts with matterand living systems, studying environmental levelsof radioactivity and the effects on biological systems.Different areas of employment include PowerReactor Health Physicists, Medical Health Physicists,Nuclear Weapons Health Physicists, and those in

Regulatory Enforcement and Occupational Safety,Education and the Environment. It also includes thecontrol of noise and atmospheric pollution.

Medical Physics Teaching, Basic andApplied R&D, Consulting,Administration

Medical physics applies the principles of various

branches of physics to the diagnosis and treatmentof human disease. Subfields include RadiationOncology, Diagnostic Radiology and NuclearMedicine. In 2001-2002 Medical Physics was thefastest-growing Physics discipline in Australia.

Nuclear Physics Teaching, Basic and AppliedR&D, Consulting, Administration,Training, QualityControl, Operation and Maintenance, Law

Nuclear physics is the study of the properties ofthe nucleus and the forces that hold the nucleustogether. Some nuclear physicists specialise in theuse of radioactive materials for diagnosing andtreating medical conditions.

Optical Physics Teaching, Basic and AppliedR&D, Consulting, Administration

Optical physics is concerned with light controllingmatter and vice versa, in areas ranging from themanipulation of atoms to information processing.It forms the basis for optoelectonics.

Science Education Teaching, Software

development, Educational Research,Writing and Editing,Public Relations, Library and Information Services

Teaching and informing others about Science is oneof the most important roles in the field, and one ofthe fastest growing; physics is at the heart of muchscientific endeavour.

Technical Engineering, Quality Control, IndustrialHygiene, Design Development,Technical Writing, IT,Research Associate/Assistant.The range of technicalpositions available for physicists continues to diversifyand expand around the world.

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While employment opportunities for physicistscan vary from year to year and according to differentregions, they are nevertheless quite promising in2003.The number of advertised jobs for which adegree or diploma in Physics or Applied Physics isa requirement has increased steadily over the pastfew years; from 470 in 1999, to 540 in 2000 andto 655 in 2001. In 2001, 78.3% of physics bachelordegree graduates were in full time employment,while 100% of those with a graduate certificateor diploma were in full time work, and 83% ofthose with a PhD were working full time. In 2003the job market figures for physics students showthat competition for a relatively stable level of jobsis heightening resulting in a greater need forcandidates to display transferable and generic skills,as well as areas of specialisation.

One of the major recruiters of physicists in Australiais the Commonwealth Government, and agenciessuch as the CSIRO www.csiro.gov.au, Bureau ofMeteorologywww.bom.gov.au, Australian NuclearScience and Technology Organisation (ANSTO)

www.ansto.gov.au and the Defence Department

www.defence.gov.au provide many opportunities eachyear.The Higher Education sector also offersteaching, research and technical positions, whileprivate sector positions can be broadly categorisedinto management/sales or other areas such ascooperative research. Secondary schools alsostipulate physics as a prerequisite for a rangeof teaching positions; meanwhile some physicistswho studied in Australia will take up researchpositions overseas.

Many opportunities are not advertised throughgeneral career vacancy channels (newspapers, job

boards and the like).These include those offeredby the Australian Institute of Physics (AIP)www.aip.org.au/jobs.html and the AustralasianCollege of Physical Scientists and Engineers inMedicine www.acpsem.org.au , which are promotedvia their website and professional journals; theAustralian Research Council (ARC) www.arc.gov.aualso offers many opportunities each year throughits own channels.Additionally, some firms recruiton campus and do not advertise their positionsin national or local newspapers; this is the casefor example in optoelectronics.

Check out the links to professional bodies in yourfield of interest and location, by performing a searchon http://jobguide.dest.gov.au

Will I Geta Job?

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Starting salaries data is collected each year by

gradlinkas part of the Graduate Destination Survey,the annual survey of graduates from all Australianuniversities four months after the completion of theirstudies.The findings of this research are collated andreproduced in a series of reports, as well as beingmade available on the Internet. In 2001, physicsbachelor degree graduates earned a median salaryof A$35,000 per year; additionally graduates witha Masters in Research earned A$50,000 and thosewith a PhD earned a A$47,000 median salary perannum. Further information about salary trends isavailable online at www.gradlink.edu.au/gradsonline ,which looks at gender and state salary andemployment levels, as well as comparing physicalscience salaries with other study areas.

According to research conducted by the Universityof Adelaides Department of Physics, senior research

positions can command up to A$87,000 per annumand professorial posts up to A$140,000; howeveran entry level position is more likely to be betweenA$30,000 and A$50,000 for a teaching, researchassistant or analyst position.

As with any area of employment, initiative isthe key to finding a position.Talk to your universityfaculty or careers service (see Campus Contactson www.gradlink.edu.au) about contacting peoplein the field, and remember that networking is anongoing, vital part of finding a job; visit governmentlaboratories or research centres and talk withphysicists about their work.You should also joinprofessional associations, not merely because itwill look good on your rsum but in orderto further network and keep up to date withdevelopments in the field, not to mention findingout about job vacancies which are not advertisedanywhere else.

It is also important to ensure you concentrateon developing your oral and written communicationskills, and the more experience you have with tools,electronics, machinery and computing, the better.

Lastly, become familiar with the job applicationprocess for government jobs at all levels federal,state and local. Be prepared to say why you believeyou are the person best fitted for the job.

How MuchWill I BePaid?

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Again, your first port of call should be youruniversitys Careers Service, and/or your facultyor department, as employers offering workexperience opportunities will often go througheither of these channels; industrial placementsmay also be offered as part of your course of study.You can also check out some opportunitiesonline the Graduate Opportunities careersearch www.graduateopportunities.com and SEEKjob search www.seek.com.au both contain listingsfor opportunities in Australia.

For a full list of employer program applicationdates, visit 2003 Application Closing Dates ongradlink in the How To Find A Job/Impor tantDates And Contacts section www.gradlink.edu.au.

You should also have a browse through the websitesof the University of Adelaide Physics Departmentwww.physics.adelaide.edu.au and the AustralianInstitute of Physics www.aip.org.au.

What About Scholarships and Awards?The JASON (Joint Academic Scholarships OnlineNetwork) website www.jason.unimelb.edu.au isa searchable database of scholarships and awardsin Australia. Again the Australian Institute of Physicswebsite www.aip.org.au/scholarships.htmland

www.aip.org.au/medals.html and other UniversitiesPhysics Departments are useful too find a full listof Australian and New Zealand university websitesunder Campus Contacts, accessible from the

front page ofwww.gradlink.edu.au.

Many job advertisements in the national/majornewspapers for physicists call for an honoursdegree or a postgraduate qualification, while jobswhich require only an ordinary degree or diplomain physics are mainly to be found in the local press.Further training or study is also consideredimportant to a range of positions suited to physicsgraduates, such as teaching in secondary schools,or where a higher degree qualification is statedor implied in the advertisement.

How Do IFind WorkExperience?

Do Postgraduateand Further

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Australia General Informationand Jobs Australian Institute for High Energy Physicswww.ph.unimelb.edu.au/epp/aushep/aushep.html

Australian Institute of Physics www.aip.org.au

see also www.aip.org.au/aipbranches.html,www.aip.org.au/jobs.html

gradlink Higher Educations Official GraduateCareers Website www.gradlink.edu.au

University of Adelaides Departmentof Physics and Mathematical Physicswww.physics.adelaide.edu.au

International Jobs and ProfessionalAssociations: Health Physics Society Careers

www.hps.org/publicinformation/hpcareers.html

International Union of Pure and Applied Physics(IUPAP) www.iupap.org/index.html

Institute of Physics (UK) www.iop.org

NewScientistJobs.Com www.newscientistjobs.com

Physics Web (UK) http://physicsweb.org/jobs

Research Network (International, based in US)

www.researchnetwork.com/emplogin.cfm

TIP-TOP Dynamic Job List for Physicistshttp://tiptop.iop.org

World of Physics

http://scienceworld.wolfram.com/physics

Information for this profile was adapted fromthe following sources:

1. Jobs in Physics in 2001: Much improved but uneven,by John Prescott, article available online at

www.physics.adelaide.edu.au/jobs/AIP_JobsReview01.html

2. Graduate Destination Survey, Graduate CareersCouncil of Australia www.gradlink.edu.au

3.The Canadian Association for Physics Careers andJobs www.cap.ca/careers

4.The International Union of Pure and AppliedPhysics (IUPAP) www.iupap.org/index.html

5.The Physics Department of the University ofAdelaide www.physics.adelaide.edu.au/index.html

6.The CancerWeb Online Medical Dictionaryhttp://cancerweb.ncl.ac.uk/omd/index.html

7. University of British Columbia Physics Department

www.physics.ubc.ca

8. Society of Exploration Geophysicists www.seg.org

9. Careers Service of McDaniel College, MD (US)www.wmdc.edu

10. Graduate Opportunities 2003 editorial, publishedbygradlinkand The Good Guides Group.

Special thanks are extended to Professor JohnR. Prescott from the Physics/Mathematical Physics

Department of the University of Adelaide.

Additional ReadingThe Graduate Careers Council of Australiaproduces a range of publications including the

Graduate Destination Survey, Graduate Starting

Salaries, the Course Experience Questionnaire,the Directory of Postgraduate Study, and YourCareer and You.These publications can be sourcedfrom your university careers service andgradlink,or can in many cases be downloaded for freefrom thegradlinkwebsite: www.gradlink.edu.au.

This profile is intended for use by careers servicesin higher education in Australia, and will also beof use to secondary school students and othersconsidering further study. A full list ofgradlinksindustry career profile booklets is available from

www.gradlink.edu.au , or on request from the

gradlinkHelpdesk (details below).

FurtherInformation

Written by Dugald McNaughtan, gradlinkSeries Editor: Jacqueline Vidot, Manager gradlink

2003 Graduate Careers Council of Australia

gradlinkHelpdeskPO Box 28, Parkville Victoria 3052,AustraliaTelephone: 03 9349 4300 Fascimile: 03 9347 7298

careers in physics booklet

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