Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Physicist
What physicists actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a physicist?
Align a laser setup. From there, the day usually includes design experiments, build models, and analyze data. Full time, sometimes long experimental runs.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a physicist working full time.
- Align a laser setup.
- Run measurements.
- Group meeting.
- Analyze data in Python.
- Simulate results.
- Draft a paper.
- Review a proposal.
Where physicists work
Physicists work in labs and offices at national labs, universities and companies.
Hours and schedule
Full time, sometimes long experimental runs.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Design experiments
- Build models
- Analyze data
- Develop technology
- Write papers
- Write proposals
- Work with engineers
Tools you’ll use every day
- Python
- MATLAB
- Lasers and optics
- Oscilloscopes
- Simulation software
- High-performance computing
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- High pay
- Faster-than-average growth
- Deep science
- Cutting-edge technology
What’s hard
- Long training
- Competitive research jobs
- Funding pressure
- Abstract work
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love physics
- I like math
- I like experiments
- I can code
- I’m willing to do a Ph.D.
- I’m persistent
Not sure? Take the free Physicist fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Follow laser safety
- Follow radiation safety
- Follow high-voltage rules
- Handle cryogens safely