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Science & Research

Physicist

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Primary Secondary Post-16

Physicists study the fundamental laws of nature, exploring how the universe behaves at the smallest and largest scales. In the UK, physicists work in various settings, including universities, government laboratories, and private industry. Their work can involve experimental research, theoretical analysis, or the development of new technologies. Physicists may focus on areas like quantum mechanics, astrophysics, medical physics, or nuclear physics. Their discoveries often contribute to advances in technology, medicine, and energy. The role involves problem-solving, data analysis, and working with complex equipment or computer models. Collaboration with other scientists and clear communication of findings are also important aspects of the job.

Physicist

📊 Statistics

Average Salary

Physicists in the UK typically earn between £28,000 and £60,000 per year, with more experienced or specialised roles reaching up to £80,000 or more.

Job Availability

There are approximately 10,000 physicists employed in the UK, working across universities, research institutions, industry, and the public sector.

Qualifications Required

Most physicist roles require at least an undergraduate degree in physics or a related subject, and many positions, especially in research, require a postgraduate degree such as a PhD.

🚀 Careers in this path

Medical Physicist

Medical physicists use their knowledge of physics to develop and improve medical equipment and treatment methods, often working in hospitals or research settings.

Particle Physicist

Particle physicists study the fundamental particles that make up the universe, often conducting experiments at large research facilities or universities.

Astrophysicist

Astrophysicists investigate the physical properties of celestial objects and phenomena, working in areas such as space research, observatories, or academic institutions.

Build a Strong Foundation in Science and Maths

Take Science and Maths GCSEs

Choose GCSE subjects that focus on Physics, Mathematics, and other sciences to build your knowledge base.

Good grades in Physics and Mathematics are essential for progressing to A-levels and further study. Consider taking Triple Science if available, and participate in science clubs or competitions to expand your understanding.

Study Physics and Maths at A-level

Select A-level Physics and Mathematics, as these are prerequisites for most physics-related university courses.

Achieving high grades at A-level is crucial for gaining entry to top universities. Further Mathematics can be beneficial, and Chemistry is also valuable, especially if you are interested in certain physics specialities.

Complete a Relevant Degree

Apply to Study Physics at University

Choose a university course in Physics or a closely related field such as Astrophysics, Theoretical Physics, or Applied Physics.

Most physics careers require at least an undergraduate degree (BSc) in Physics. Research universities for their reputation in science, available modules, and opportunities for laboratory or research experience.

Take Part in Research Projects

Engage in research placements, summer internships, or laboratory work during your degree.

Gaining practical experience in a research environment helps develop essential skills and can lead to future opportunities. Look for Research Experience Placements (REPs) or university-led summer research programmes.

Pursue Further Study and Specialisation

Study for a Postgraduate Qualification

Many physicist roles, especially in research, require a postgraduate degree such as a Master’s or PhD.

A postgraduate degree allows you to specialise in an area of interest, such as quantum mechanics, astrophysics, or medical physics. During your studies, you will conduct original research and develop advanced analytical skills.

Begin a Career in Research or Industry

Apply for positions in universities, government agencies, research institutes, or private companies.

Physicists work in a range of sectors including academia, engineering, healthcare, energy, and software. Networking, attending conferences, and publishing research can help advance your career. Consider joining professional bodies like the Institute of Physics.

🎬 Useful Videos

Expert Film: This is Yasmin Jones, who works as a Health Physics Monitor for Magnox. Yasmin talks about how heat is transferred through fluids.
1:34
Expert

Expert Film: This is Yasmin Jones, who works as a Health Physics Monitor for Magnox. Yasmin talks about how heat is transferred through fluids.

over 1 year ago
Expert Film: This is Mark Wareing. Mark works as a Programme Manager for the NDA. Listen to Mark as he talks about gas pressure using a particle model.
0:58
Expert

Expert Film: This is Mark Wareing. Mark works as a Programme Manager for the NDA. Listen to Mark as he talks about gas pressure using a particle model.

over 1 year ago

Available Apprenticeships

Please note that this may not be a comprehensive list of available apprenticeships. To view a more complete collection, visit the Find an apprenticeship service.

Click on any card to be redirected to their vacancy page.

Engineering Technician Apprentice

THURSTON ENGINEERING LTD

( Added 22 Feb 2024 - 2 positions available )

A great opportunity to join the team and learn the day-to-day processes of a busy engineering workshop. Working alongside skilled engineers you will progress to be conversant with all processes and machinery. The successful applicant will be given the opportunity to become a valuable player in this specialist world learning valuable skills.

Closing date: in 29 days

Possible start date: 06 Jan 2026

The Royal Navy - Medical Assistant Senior Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeship

Royal Navy

( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 80 positions available )

Being a Medical Assistant in the Royal Navy means embarking on a career that offers more variety and adventure than you’d ever experience in civilian medicine. From the day you join, you’ll gain new skills, pushing yourself to the limit in some unique and challenging environments.

Closing date: in 8 months

Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026

The Royal Navy - Survival Equipment Technician - Survival Equipment Fitter Apprenticeship

Royal Navy

( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 20 positions available )

As a Survival Equipment Technician (SET), you will maintain vital lifesaving equipment to enable aircrew to operate safely. This equipment will help them to survive on land, sea or in the air in peacetime or on military operations. You will also learn how to assist in the training of aircrew on land and sea in survival techniques.

Closing date: in 8 months

Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026

The Royal Navy - Accelerated Apprentice (Submariner) - Engineering Technician Apprenticeship.

Royal Navy

( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 60 positions available )

Joining the Royal Navy on the Accelerated Apprentice Scheme (Submariner) means being fast-tracked to working with one of our most elite teams. You'll be paid to study, gain practical skills and use highly sophisticated equipment. Prior to that you'll spend time in active service as either a Marine Engineer Submariner or Weapon Engineer Submariner.

Closing date: in 8 months

Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026

The Royal Navy - Comms Specialist (Submariner)-Maritime Mechanical & Electrical Mechanic Apprentice

Royal Navy

( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 70 positions available )

As an Engineering Technician Communications and Information Systems Specialist (Submariner) you'll be part of the elite Silent Service and a central member of your vessel’s engineering team. Using ultramodern radio and satellite systems to communicate with off-vessel command, you’re key to tactical and strategic communications.

Closing date: in 8 months

Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026

The Royal Navy - Weapon Engineering - Engineering Technician Accelerated Apprenticeship

Royal Navy

( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 96 positions available )

Joining the Royal Navy on the Accelerated Apprentice Scheme means accelerating your training and development within one of our most elite teams. You’ll be fast-tracked to real responsibility, getting your hands on some of the most advanced kit on the planet, and guaranteeing your warship’s performance as a state-of-the-art fighting machine.

Closing date: in 8 months

Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026

Career Progressions

This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.

Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.

Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.

These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!

Sample Qualifications

How to become

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • a graduate trainee scheme

University

You can do a degree to start your career in physics. The course you choose will depend on your area of interest.

Course examples include:

  • physics
  • astrophysics
  • mathematics
  • medical physics
  • computer science
  • engineering physics

If you do not have the required entry qualifications to do a physics degree, you may be able to do a 1-year physics foundation course before moving onto a degree.

Some physics degrees combine an undergraduate course with a postgraduate master's qualification, like an MPhys or MSci. On these, you'll do more independent research, and courses can lead to further study for a PhD.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

Apprenticeship

You could apply for a Degree Apprenticeship work-based training scheme. There are a lot of options available to develop your skills in physics.

Examples include:

  • Robotics Engineer Level 6
  • Nuclear Scientist Level 6
  • Space Systems Engineer Level 6
  • Scientist Level 6
  • Research Scientist Level 7

These apprenticeships take between 3 and 5 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

More Information

Other Routes

You may be able to apply for a place on a graduate training scheme with a commercial company, government department or university, after completing your degree or postgraduate qualification.

More Information

Career tips

Try to get some work experience to find out more about job roles and the areas where you could apply your knowledge and skills as a physicist. Look out for:

Further information

You can find out more about careers in physics through the Institute of Physics and Planet Possibility.

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