physicist
Role lens
Delve into the fundamental laws of the universe and contribute to groundbreaking advancements – a career as a physicist offers a unique blend of scientific inquiry and real-world impact. From developing new technologies to understanding the cosmos, physicists are at the forefront of innovation.
Physicists are scientists dedicated to studying physical phenomena, ranging from the smallest subatomic particles to the vastness of space. Your daily work might involve designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, developing theoretical models, and writing reports detailing your findings. Specialization is key; physicists often focus on areas like astrophysics, particle physics, condensed matter physics, or medical physics, each demanding a unique skillset and approach.
- • Designing and executing experiments to test hypotheses and gather data.
- • Analyzing data using statistical methods and computational tools.
- • Developing theoretical models and simulations to explain physical phenomena.
Where this occupation is in demand
Reported labour shortages and surpluses, by year. Published for occupation groups, not for individual job titles.
Deeper colour: reported the same way in more consecutive years.
Figures cover Science and engineering professionals — 274 jobs including this one.
In shortage: Denmark, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg.
Longest-running shortage: Luxembourg, 4 years.
Select a place on the map to see its figures.
About this source›
Source: ELA/EURES labour shortages and surpluses. Readings are published at occupation-group level, and cover Europe. Editions differ in annex layout and country coverage, so a change between years does not always mean the labour market changed. Countries in grey were not reported, which is not the same as being in balance.
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Find your career path and explore the science behind our recommendations.
Could physicist fit you?
Answer three quick questions. This is not a full assessment — it is a teaser to help you decide whether to compare your profile.
Do you enjoy tasks that require Analytical Thinking?
Do you enjoy tasks that require Integrity?
Do you enjoy tasks that require Attention to Detail?
Future Outlook for physicist
The outlook for physicist reflects a balanced mix of automation exposure and durable, human-led work.
How are these scores calculated?
The Resilience Score (0–100) estimates how structurally protected this occupation is from automation and AI disruption, based on task-level analysis. Higher scores mean more human-judgment-intensive tasks. AI Exposure shows the estimated percentage of task hours that current AI capabilities could affect. These are model-derived structural indicators, not predictions about individual job security.
How could physicist change as AI adoption grows?
This role is likely to change gradually, with AI supporting selected tasks rather than replacing the whole occupation.
Illustrative scenario based on task automatability — not a forecast. Values are rounded the further ahead you look.
How could physicist change as AI adoption grows?
This role is likely to change gradually, with AI supporting selected tasks rather than replacing the whole occupation.
Illustrative scenario based on task automatability — not a forecast. Values are rounded the further ahead you look.
How AI may change this role
Deterministic, model-based interpretation of current role signals — not a guarantee of replacement.
What still depends on people
- interact professionally in research and professional environments
- evaluate research activities
- manage intellectual property rights
Where AI may become a co-pilot
- apply statistical analysis techniques
- analyse experimental laboratory data
- manage open publications
Tasks most exposed to automation
- gather experimental data
- synthesise information
- apply for research funding
Vital Signs & AI Vectors
AI Exposure Vectors
0-100%Exposure to AI-assisted analysis, pattern recognition, and predictive modelling tasks
Exposure to content generation, creative augmentation, and large language model tools
Exposure to physical automation, robotics, and sensor-driven task displacement
Exposure to workflow automation, decision-support software, and process digitisation
Technical Details
NexFuture v3.0 estimates automation exposure natively from ESCO essential-skill groups, weighted by skill mass and calibrated against expert anchors. Scores are probabilistic estimates, not guarantees. See the NexFuture Methodology White Paper for full details.
Measures automation exposure. It does not measure pay, demand, or how many jobs exist near you.
What people in this role usually do
Energy & Natural Resources
A typical day as a physicist
09 09:00 · Morning apply for research funding
10 10:30 · Mid-morning apply research ethics and scientific integrity principles in research activities
12 12:00 · Midday analyse experimental laboratory data
14 14:00 · Afternoon manage intellectual property rights
15 15:30 · Late afternoon operate open source software
17 17:00 · Wrap-up apply scientific methods
Task order is illustrative. Individual days vary.
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computational physics
The interdisciplinary field between physics, applied mathematics and computer science. It refers to the use of physics formulas and numerical algorithms to make computations at a large scale.
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quantum computing
The branch of computer science that follows the principles of quantum theory. It uses subatomic particles which are allowed to exist under more than one state thanks to quantum bits, or qubits.
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quantum technology
The technology that works through principles of quantum mechanics such as quantum entanglement and quantum superposition.
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spectroscopy
The scientific field that focuses on investigating and measuring spectra that are produced through electromagnetic radiation either in the form of materials interaction with radiations or their emission.
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supercomputing
The process of dealing with complex data-related problems through multiple computers working in parallel (i.e., a supercomputer). It is used in several fields such as quantum mechanics, molecular modeling, aerodynamics and nuclear fusion research.
- laboratory techniques
- mathematical modelling
- mathematics
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manage findable accessible interoperable and reusable data
Produce, describe, store, preserve and (re) use scientific data based on FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) principles, making data as open as possible, and as closed as necessary.
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perform scientific research
Gain, correct or improve knowledge about phenomena by using scientific methods and techniques, based on empirical or measurable observations.
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apply scientific methods
Apply scientific methods and techniques to investigate phenomena, by acquiring new knowledge or correcting and integrating previous knowledge.
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apply research ethics and scientific integrity principles in research activities
Apply fundamental ethical principles and legislation to scientific research, including issues of research integrity. Perform, review, or report research avoiding misconducts such as fabrication, falsification, and plagiarism.
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promote open innovation in research
Apply techniques, models, methods and strategies which contribute to the promotion of steps towards innovation through collaboration with people and organizations outside the organisation.
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integrate gender dimension in research
Take into account in the whole research process the biological characteristics and the evolving social and cultural features of women and men (gender).
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draft scientific or academic papers and technical documentation
Draft and edit scientific, academic or technical texts on different subjects.
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disseminate results to the scientific community
Publicly disclose scientific results by any appropriate means, including conferences, workshops, colloquia and scientific publications.
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publish academic research
Conduct academic research, in universities and research institutions, or on a personal account, publish it in books or academic journals with the aim of contributing to a field of expertise and achieving personal academic accreditation.
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write scientific publications
Present the hypothesis, findings, and conclusions of your scientific research in your field of expertise in a professional publication.
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gather experimental data
Collect data resulting from the application of scientific methods such as test methods, experimental design or measurements.
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synthesise information
Critically read, interpret, and summarise new and complex information from diverse sources.
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communicate mathematical information
Use mathematical symbols, language and tools to present information, ideas and processes.
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communicate with a non-scientific audience
Communicate about scientific findings to a non-scientific audience, including the general public. Tailor the communication of scientific concepts, debates, findings to the audience, using a variety of methods for different target groups, including visual presentations.
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use measurement instruments
Use different measurement instruments depending on the property to be measured. Utilise various instruments to measure length, area, volume, speed, energy, force, and others.
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operate scientific measuring equipment
Operate devices, machinery, and equipment designed for scientific measurement. Scientific equipment consists of specialised measuring instruments refined to facilitate the acquisition of data.
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manage research data
Produce and analyse scientific data originating from qualitative and quantitative research methods. Store and maintain the data in research databases. Support the re-use of scientific data and be familiar with open data management principles.
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perform laboratory tests
Carry out tests in a laboratory to produce reliable and precise data to support scientific research and product testing.
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interact professionally in research and professional environments
Show consideration to others as well as collegiality. Listen, give and receive feedback and respond perceptively to others, also involving staff supervision and leadership in a professional setting.
Skill DNA
Work personality traits and values that define this role
See whether this role fits your Career DNA
Take the free Career DNA assessment to see how physicist aligns with your interests, work style, and future path. In less than 10 minutes, you will get a personalized fit signal and a roadmap for what to do next.
Scan to continue on mobileGrowth Pathways & Similar Roles
Explore typical career progression paths, adjacent skills, and similar roles to plan your next transition.
Where does physicist fit?
Similarity scores based on skill overlap from ESCO data.
Frequently asked questions
- What kind of education is required to become a physicist?
- A bachelor's degree in physics is often a starting point, but most physicist roles, particularly those involving research, require a master's degree or a doctorate (PhD). Strong mathematical skills and a solid foundation in calculus, differential equations, and linear algebra are essential.
- How does a physicist’s work contribute to everyday life?
- The impact of physics is far-reaching. Physicists contribute to advancements in medical imaging (MRI, X-rays), energy production (solar panels, nuclear power), materials science (developing stronger and lighter materials), and even the creation of video games and cutting-edge equipment.
- What are the typical work environments for physicists?
- Physicists are primarily employed in research institutions, universities, government laboratories, and in the private sector for companies involved in technology, engineering, and scientific research. This occupation is mostly employee-based, though independent consulting opportunities can exist.
- Physicist — is there a shortage in Europe?
- Both, depending where. Of the 8 European countries that assessed this occupation group in 2025, 4 reported a shortage and 4 a surplus. These assessments are published per occupation group rather than per job title.
- Physicist — what does it pay in the United States?
- $166,290 a year at the median, as of 2025-05. State medians run from $82,590 to $225,390. Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is a United States figure and not a projection for Europe.
- Physicist — is it a regulated profession?
- It is listed as a regulated profession in 9 European countries: Spain, Slovakia, Netherlands, Slovenia and 5 more. The lowest qualification level required among them is EQF 6. Where a profession is regulated, a qualification earned elsewhere has to be formally recognised before you can practise. Source: EU Regulated Professions Database.