Physicists
Human Advantage 69%
Significant human skills needed
AI Automation Risk Low Risk
2.7 / 10
This occupation requires complex human judgment, social interaction, and creative problem-solving that are difficult to automate.
Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.
Also Known As: Aerodynamicist, Aerophysicist, Astrophysicist, Atmospheric Physicist, Atomic Spectroscopist, Biophysics Scientist, Cloud Physicist, Computational Physicist +30 more
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Core Tasks
- Perform complex calculations as part of the analysis and evaluation of data, using computers.
- Analyze data from research conducted to detect and measure physical phenomena.
- Describe and express observations and conclusions in mathematical terms.
- Design computer simulations to model physical data so that it can be better understood.
- Write research proposals to receive funding.
- Teach physics to students.
- Report experimental results by writing papers for scientific journals or by presenting information at scientific conferences.
Supplemental Tasks (3)
- Observe the structure and properties of matter, and the transformation and propagation of energy, using equipment such as masers, lasers, and telescopes, to explore and identify the basic principles governing these phenomena.
- Develop theories and laws on the basis of observation and experiments, and apply these theories and laws to problems in areas such as nuclear energy, optics, and aerospace technology.
- Collaborate with other scientists in the design, development, and testing of experimental, industrial, or medical equipment, instrumentation, and procedures.
Emerging Tasks
New and evolving responsibilities for this role:
- Perform peer reviews of scientific papers.
Education & Training
Job Zone 5 Job Zone Five: Extensive Preparation Needed
Education: Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).
Experience: Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.
On-the-Job Training: Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.
Education Level Distribution
Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.
Relevant College Majors
- Physics, General CIP 40.0801Fundamental laws of matter, energy, and forces.
Technology & Tools
Hot Technologies
Software (74)
Tools & Equipment (121)
Where This Career Leads
Career progression organized by specialty track and experience level.
Engineering Advanced Manufacturing
Biotechnology Research & Development Advanced Manufacturing
Zone 4
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Zone 5
Physicists You are here
Military & National Security Advanced Manufacturing
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Real Talk
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