Accelerator Physicist
Role Description
As an accelerator physicist you will combine your theoretical, computational, and experimental knowledge of physics to help develop and operate particle accelerators. These instruments work by colliding the smallest, charged particles, helping to gain information about their nature as well as that of new particles created in the collisions. Working in this role you will attribute to research about the nature of the universe – or, on a smaller scale, develop a deeper understanding of quantum mechanics, chemistry or even medicine.
Specific areas of on-going research include dark matter, string theory, subatomic particles and even astrophysics, as you might be working with high energy cosmic rays coming from space.
Student Case Studies
Salary
Starting salary £25,000 to £35,000
Senior position £40,000 to £60,000+
Hours
Most positions are 9am to 5pm work schedules, sometimes overtime might be needed to complete projects.
Prospects
As an accelerator physicist you can work in many different areas and workspaces, from being a researcher, a university lecturer or even working for the NHS in cancer research.
Skills Valued by Employers
- Strong knowledge of accelerator physics
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to plan and manage the delivery of own work
- Ability to solve technical problems by applying specialist technical knowledge of scientific laboratory equipment
- Strong knowledge of programming languages is highly recommended, including the ability to make simulations
