Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Physics Professor
What physics professors 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 physics professor?
Teach introductory mechanics. From there, the day usually includes teach physics courses, run labs and demonstrations, and lead research. Teaching, research and service; some research involves remote facilities.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a physics professor working full time.
- Teach introductory mechanics.
- Set up a demonstration.
- Meet the research group.
- Run a simulation.
- Teach quantum mechanics.
- Hold office hours.
- Host a public observatory night.
Where physics professors work
Faculty work in classrooms, labs, observatories and offices.
Hours and schedule
Teaching, research and service; some research involves remote facilities.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Teach physics courses
- Run labs and demonstrations
- Lead research
- Mentor students
- Write grants
- Publish research
- Serve on committees
Tools you’ll use every day
- Lab apparatus
- Simulation software
- Python and MATLAB
- Telescopes
- Learning management systems
- Research computing
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Deep intellectual work
- Research on fundamental questions
- Flexible schedule
- Fun demonstrations
What’s hard
- Long training
- Competitive tenure track
- Grant pressure
- Few positions
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love physics
- I enjoy math
- I like explaining hard ideas
- I want to do research
- I like demonstrations
- I’m willing to train for years
Not sure? Take the free Physics Professor fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Follow laser and radiation safety
- Secure lab equipment
- Supervise demonstrations
- Protect student privacy