So You Want to Be a Physicist? Watch This First

Summary

This video provides an insightful guide for those considering a career in physics. It explains that while the field may seem focused on topics like dark matter or quantum gravity, most physicists work in applied areas like condensed matter physics, fluid dynamics, and quantum optics. The path to becoming a physicist requires years of study, resilience, and strong math and coding skills. Although academic job prospects are tough, a PhD in physics opens doors to diverse roles in the private sector, including finance, energy, and tech. The speaker emphasizes the value of a versatile education and motivation for success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Physics is a diverse field with many research areas like condensed matter physics, fluid dynamics, quantum optics, and more, not just dark matter and particle colliders.
• 😀 Becoming a physicist involves learning many techniques and methodologies, with most people spending 8 to 10 years to complete a PhD, though a bachelor's or master's degree may suffice for some careers.
• 😀 A PhD in physics is about learning how to conduct research, but it also involves struggles like reading complex papers, writing ones that may not be widely read, and managing challenging reviewer comments.
• 😀 To become a physicist, strong math skills are essential, and coding has become increasingly important in the field. You also need to be able to work with Greek letters and symbols accurately.
• 😀 Motivation is crucial for a career in physics, as research can be difficult and mentally taxing, especially with challenges like buggy code, paper rejections, and tough supervisors.
• 😀 Job prospects for physicists are generally good, with low unemployment rates. However, the number of permanent academic positions has been decreasing, and many physicists leave academia for the private sector.
• 😀 Academia is stressful and requires frequent relocation, which can impact work-life balance and mental health. Many physicists transition to the private sector for more stable and better-paid positions.
• 😀 Jobs for physicists outside of academia include banking, investment, insurance, government advisory, corporate research, and even teaching and science communication.
• 😀 Physicists in the private sector may end up in areas like renewable energy, quantum technology, or software engineering, with many former CERN researchers going into tech-related fields.
• 😀 A PhD in physics provides a versatile education, offering opportunities across various fields, although it may not always align with specific research interests chosen during the PhD journey.

Q & A

What is the main reason the speaker is hesitant to give career advice?

The speaker believes that career decisions are very personal and therefore, they are hesitant to give advice to people they don't know.

What does the speaker say about the common perception of physics?

The speaker explains that many people associate physics with topics like dark matter, quantum gravity, and large particle colliders, as those are often in the headlines. However, the majority of physicists work on more grounded topics, such as condensed matter physics, fluid dynamics, and material science.

How long does it typically take to complete a PhD in physics?

A PhD in physics typically takes 8 to 10 years, depending on the country and field. Some may finish a little faster if they are exceptionally gifted, but for most, it takes around 8 years.

Is a PhD always necessary for a career in physics?

No, a PhD is not always necessary. Depending on the career goals, a bachelor's or master's degree in physics might be sufficient. However, a PhD is generally beneficial if you want to pursue physics research.

What are some of the skills necessary to become a physicist?

To become a physicist, you need to be good at mathematics, have strong coding skills, and be able to draw and understand various symbols like Greek letters. Most importantly, you need strong motivation to stay focused through difficult times, such as dealing with rejected papers or complex problems.

What are the job prospects for physics PhDs?

Job prospects for physics PhDs are generally positive, with low unemployment rates. However, most physicists who leave academia end up in private sector roles such as banking, investment, or software engineering. The fraction of physics PhDs who secure permanent academic positions has been decreasing for decades.

What is the typical work situation for physicists in academia?

Physicists in academia typically balance research and teaching. Many academic positions also involve administrative duties, grant writing, mentoring, and organizing workshops. These positions are often stressful, with a heavy workload and frequent relocations.

What are some alternative career paths for physicists outside of academia?

Outside of academia, physicists can pursue careers in areas such as banking, government advisory, patent offices, scientific publishing, renewable energy, quantum technology, science communication, and software engineering, among others.

What does the speaker say about the versatility of a physics PhD?

The speaker emphasizes that a physics PhD provides a versatile education, applicable to a wide range of industries and roles. Despite some regrets about specific research topics, the speaker has no regrets about pursuing a physics PhD.

What alternative ways does the speaker suggest for learning physics outside of university?

The speaker recommends Brilliant, an online learning platform that offers interactive courses in various subjects like science, mathematics, and computer science. The platform is flexible and allows learning at one's own pace.