Physicist
Physics deals with the interrelation of matter and energy. Physicists are needed wherever the physical properties of materials have to be studied. They are employed in the fields of electronics, nuclear power, computing, aerospace, optics, telecommunications, engineering and instrument manufacture. In addi- tion, hospitals employ medical physicists whose work includes support for medical use of radiation, and design and implementation of new equipment for diagnosis and treatment of disease. Some physicists lecture in universities or teach in schools. Physics technicians assist fully qualified physicists. About one-third of all physicists work in public service industries, one-third in private industry and one-third in secondary and higher education. Some physicists work on problems at the frontiers of knowledge; others tackle the problems that arise in the application of physical ideas to industrial and engineering problems. Physics graduates also find themselves employed in occupations such as medicine, computing and even finance.
06 · Qualifications & training you need
To continue with science at A level, students must choose either a double award in science (England, Wales and Northern Ireland), which combines the three subjects and leads to two science GCSE qualifications, or a combination of the individual sciences (biology, chemistry, physics), at GCSE or equivalent. Entry to most degree courses requires two or three A levels (or a suitable combination of A and AS levels) or equivalent, including maths and physics. Since there is a shortage of applicants, grade requirements in some universities are not high, but all departments will consider good grades in maths to be equally as important as good grades in physics. A National Diploma with several merits and distinctions may be considered if it has suitable maths and physics content. Junior technicians need a good education to GCSE level with particular atten- tion to maths, a science and a subject showing the use of English in order to take an Edexcel (BTEC)/SQA national certificate. There are special certificate courses for medical junior physics technicians. For senior technicians an Edexcel (BTEC)/SQA HND award is available; the requirements are an A level in physics and GCSE maths, chemistry and English. An Edexcel (BTEC)/SQA NC or ND award is acceptable in place of A/H levels. Training for technicians is generally on the job, such as Modern Apprenticeships, with time off to attend courses.
Where people train for this
03 · Education pathway
Bachelor-level science for entry roles; postgraduate study commonly required for research-intensive roles.
09 · Personal qualities and skills
You should have a genuine interest in photography and design and some creative flair. You need to work with great accuracy and be able to pay attention to small detail. You should be practical and interested in using computers or other professional equipment. You also need good communication skills and you should enjoy working in a team.
20 · Salary guide
Salaries start between £9,000 and £15,000, rising to £16,000 to £25,000 with three or four years’ experience. Digital imaging work offers the highest salaries and good, experienced operators can earn up to £35,000. Skillset, Focus Point,