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By Nsim Team
If you want to become a nuclear physicist, you first need to determine if this career path is a good fit for you. If the following description sounds like you, then you’re probably well suited for a career in this field:
Those who become nuclear physicists have a keen interest in fundamental scientific processes, as well as a keen interest in conducting research. They are individuals who enjoy the challenge confronting technological problems, and developing practical applications for scientific knowledge.
Those who become nuclear physicists have a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computer science. Nuclear physicists have advanced academic degrees, and have spent years studying their field and conducting independent research.
Who is a Nuclear physicist?
Nuclear physicists study the way atoms interact with each other, as well as how the characteristics of the nuclear world can be applied to human endeavors. Nuclear physicists may focus on one of several subspecialties including theoretical work, experimental examinations of nuclear particles and equipment design.
Eligibility Needed to Become a Nuclear Physicist
To become a nuclear physicist, you need to develop a strong background in physics, engineering and mathematics. It is also important to have skills in research, and skills working with various computer programs, such as mapping programs and data collection and analysis programs.
To acquire this knowledge base and skill set you typically need to pursue an undergraduate degree in science, with a major in physics, nuclear physics or a closely related field such as electrical engineering. Having an undergraduate degree in one of these areas will help qualify you to work an entry-level to medium-level nuclear physics job.
If you want to become a nuclear physicist who works as a consultant or a researcher, you will need a Master of Science degree in any of the aforementioned fields, or a closely related field. To become a nuclear physicist who works in senior research and university teaching positions a Ph.D. in physics with a focus in nuclear physics or nuclear engineering is typically needed.
Nuclear physicists study the way atoms interact with each other, as well as how the characteristics of the nuclear world can be applied to human endeavors. Nuclear physicists may focus on one of several subspecialties including theoretical work, experimental examinations of nuclear particles and equipment design.
Skills Needed to Become a Nuclear Physicist
In order to become effective in a career as a nuclear physicist, you need to possess a certain set of personality traits and skills. These skills and traits will not only allow you to perform your job with competence; they will allow you to endure the more difficult aspects of this career.
• A keen interest in physics and mathematics
• A strong academic background in physics, mathematics, and computer science.
• Willingness to keep up with the latest advances in nuclear physics
• An analytical approach to problem solving
• Approach work activities with perseverance, patience and dedication
• Excited by the idea of achieving results, both expected and unexpected
• Must not be easily discouraged; desired outcomes aren’t always, or quickly achieved
• Able to work and collaborate well with others
• Able to communicate effectively with collaborators
Who Hires Nuclear Physicists?
Nuclear physicists are employed in all aspects of the nuclear research in industry, academia, and government. Organizations that hire nuclear physicists include:
• Private research, development and quality control laboratories
• Medical research laboratories and product development companies
• Energy companies and energy research laboratories
• Government agencies
• Colleges and universities
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