Physicist

Overview

Who is Physicist?

As scientists, Physicists are focused on examining the principles and properties of different forms of matter and energy, and how they interact. Primarily, their efforts are geared towards studying the universe, from subatomic particles to large galaxies, they aim to uncover the laws governing time and space. Utilizing specialized equipment, such as lasers and telescopes, uncover the principles governing physical phenomena that shape the natural world. A good part of a Physicist’s job requires delving into extensive research. They generate data by conducting experitments to test their hypotheses and draw conclusions from. They are also involved in designing scientific equipment that is necessary to conduct experiments such as electron microscoepes and particle accelerators. The field divides into two broad areas, applied physics and theoretical physics. The research focused on applying the knowledge of physics to benefit the general public comes under the purview of applied physics; on the other hand, investigating areas without concerning themselves with its practical applications has to do with theoretical physics. Their work on developing theories based on the data gathered through observations and experiments.

Typical day at work

What does Physicist do?

A physicist is a scientist who studies and investigates the natural principles that govern the universe. They use their physics expertise to pursue theoretical or practical aims including improving humanity's understanding of the world and producing new medical technology. Astrophysicists, biological physicists, and polymer physicists are examples of physicists who specialise in an area. Their responsibilities differ based on their company and study field. They undertake experiments to test scientific hypotheses and construct theories concerning the qualities of space, matter, energy, and time. They also create new scientific equipment and software for analysing and modelling data. They develop research ideas and applications, scientific articles and present them at physics conferences.

Physicists usually specialize in certain focus areas, which dictate the responsibilities that they are endowed with:

• Write research proposals and grant applications to obtain funding in order to contribute to the field by conducting research
• In accordance with the methology and purpose of the research, generate hypotheses, plan the path and procedure of the study to gather relavant data
• Conduct experiements needed to carry out the research while ensuring accuracy of the results data by perfomring quality control tests
• Evaluate and analyze the results obtained by performing complex calculations and expressing the data in mathematical terms when relevant
• Report results of the study by publishing it in journal or presenting it at scientific conferences
• Work with fellow scientists in creating and testing equipment and procedures that apply the knowledge of physics such as nuclear energy
• Engage in developing theories pertaining to relevant concepts that can be applied to propose solutions to real-world problems in medical, military, commercial and industrial sectors
• Devote time to generate computer simulations to study relevant phenomena effectively as well as to study the effects of industrial activities on the environment

Abilities & aptitude needed

What are the skills, abilities & aptitude needed to become Physicist?

As a part of a competitive, scientific field, Physicists tend to be investigative, rational, and logical individuals with extensive knowledge of physics and mathematics. in addition, a good grasp over the principles of engineering science and technology as well as that of relevant computer applications is also required. Excellent complex problem-solving skills as well as analytical thinking and resoning skills are requisite to choose this career option. Apart from this, a physicist needs to possess the ability to express complex phenomena effectively, using both verbal and written means, making communication skills another crucial aspect for this job. Ease with applying scientific and mathematical knowledge to resolve problems, theoretical or application based as is relevant to their job, is a skill of importance for a physicist. For a Physicist, research and project development skills are frequently put to use on the job as they are tasked with utilizing their logic and reasoning abilities to develop probable theories which can be tested using experiments.

Courses

Which course I can pursue?