PHYSICS IN CAREERS

Exerpts taken from : http://www.physics.odu.edu/htmlstuf/docs/physics3.htm , click on link for more information

The laboratory of the physicist extends from the edge of the universe to inside the nucleus of an atom. A physicist may work in a laboratory designing materials for the computer chips of tomorrow, or smashing atomic particles in a quest to understand how our universe began.


Physicists have orbited the Earth as astronauts, and plumbed the oceans' depths. Individuals who have studied physics seek to make instruments that diagnose and cure disease; to develop safer and cleaner fuels for our cars and homes; to harness the power of the sea; to calculate the movement of arctic glaciers; and to create smaller, faster electronic components and integrated circuits.

Research physicists work in industry and government, in laboratories and hospitals, and on university campuses. Some physicists serve in the military, teach in high schools and colleges, design science museum exhibits, write books and news articles about science, give advice to federal, state, local, and foreign governments, run businesses, even become artists. Students not interested in pursuing a science career can still benefit from courses in physics. The study of physics helps you acquire very special problem-solving skills and teaches you to better observe and understand the world. We all employ physical concepts in everyday life.


School Teacher


Children are born scientists, constantly asking questions

Teaching presents the challenge of keeping curiosity

  • Why do you get electric shocks in cold, dry weather?

  • Does a stick of dynamite contain force?

  • What makes rainbows form?

  • How cold can it get?

Individuals who themselves appreciate science often have a special gift for teaching young children. Curiosity out the world around us is a common bond of children and scientists.



Imaging Technician



Looking inside the body without surgery is one of medicine's most important tools.

  1. X-rays,

  1. computed tomography, CAT scans,

  2. magnetic resonance imaging techniques are used to determine bone damage, diagnose disease, and develop treatment for various illnesses.



    Technicians who use imaging equipment need to be familiar with the concepts of x-rays and magnetic resonance, and be able to determine how much of this powerful technology to use.





Environmentalist




Environmental physicists

  1. study ozone depletion

  2. use acoustics to try to reduce noise pollution

  3. search for cleaner forms of fuel

  4. study how smog forms and how to reduce it

  5. devise ways in which to dispose of and store nuclear waste safely.


Journalist



Reporters who have a background in physics have an advantage in being able to grasp technical issues quickly and communicate easily with researchers.

  • New discoveries

  • controversial findings

  • space research

  • medical breakthroughs

  • natural disasters

  1. technological competitiveness

  2. the environment

Many major daily newspapers in the country have science sections; in addition, science reporting is featured on radio and television.



CAREERS IN PHYSICS


Physics offers challenging, exciting, and productive careers. As a career, physics covers many specialized fields -- from acoustics, astronomy, and astrophysics to medical physics, ge ophysics, and vacuum sciences.


Physics opens doors to employment opportunities throughout the world in government, industry, schools, and private organizations.