A particle scientist studies the smallest building blocks of matter, such as atoms and subatomic particles. In the UK, researchers work in laboratories at universities or science institutions, designing experiments, analysing data and helping to develop new technologies. Roles can involve using complex equipment, writing reports, and presenting findings to other scientists. This career suits curious students who enjoy maths, physics and teamwork.
Laboratory researchers in universities and industry typically earn around 25,000 to 40,000 pounds per year at early to mid level.
There are several hundred0 particle science roles in the UK across universities, research labs and tech companies, with more opportunities for graduates with strong maths and physics.
Most roles require at least a bachelor's degree in physics or a related field; many positions also seek a masters or PhD for advanced research work.
Study tiny particles such as atoms and molecules by doing experiments in labs and using maths to explain how the universe works
Explain complex science ideas about particles to the public through articles, videos and podcasts
Help scientists run experiments by preparing equipment, collecting data and keeping records in a lab
Study physics, maths and science at school to build a strong foundation.
Focus on GCSEs and then A levels or equivalent. Look for practical experiments and online courses to understand motion, energy, and basic particle ideas. Join science clubs or competitions to stay curious.
Participate in school or community science projects to gain hands on lab experience.
Assist with data collection, practice safe lab techniques, and learn to use measurement tools. Seek mentoring from physics teachers or university outreach programmes.
Study BSc or MSc in physics, maths or engineering to learn about particles, quantum mechanics and data analysis.
Take courses in mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum physics and statistics. Get involved in research groups or summer projects, and learn programming for data analysis.
Work on a supervised research project or internship to understand how real experiments are run.
Aim to contribute to laboratory work, design experiments, and practise interpreting results. Build a portfolio of reports and code you write.
Pursue doctoral study or join a particle physics research team to specialise in a sub area.
PhD work often involves designing experiments, running them, and publishing findings. Build collaborations with universities and labs and attend conferences.
Strengthen programming and data analysis to handle large datasets from experiments.
Learn languages such as Python and C++, become proficient with data frameworks, and practise statistical methods used to extract signals from noise.
Consider roles in academia, national labs, or industry research. Think about publishing, presenting results and mentoring others.
Build a professional network, apply for fellowships, and keep learning about new detectors and theories.
A physicist studies matter and energy, using experiments and simulations. Can work in universities, industry or research labs.
A scientist who tests and studies biological samples to understand health and disease in laboratories.
Work with data produced from experiments to find patterns and help explain results, often requiring strong maths and programming skills.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Particle. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
Particle as a title suggests work with precise measurements and analysis of materials at micro scales. Forensic science involves similar analytical lab-based work, using instrumentation (e.g., spectroscopy, chromatography, microscopy) and rigorous data interpretation and quality control, making it a closer match than Non-destructive testing technician, which is more engineering and field-inspection focused.
You can get into this job through:
You can do a degree or postgraduate qualification in:
Entry to jobs is competitive, so it may help to choose a university qualification accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.
You'll usually need:
You could apply to do a Degree Apprenticeship, such as:
It will help if you do your aprenticeship with a company that provides forensic science services, or with a police force that has its own in-house lab facilities.
You'll usually need:
You can apply directly to forensic services providers if you've got a lot of lab experience, and qualifications in science, especially chemistry.
If you want to specialise in recovering data from computers and mobile phones, you'll need relevant experience and qualifications. Useful subjects include computing, electrical engineering, electronics or physics.
You can join The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences for professional development and advice. The society has student membership, for undergraduates aiming to get into a forensic science career.
You can find out more on careers in forensics from The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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