A Career in Physics and Astronomy

Steven R. Spangler

University of Iowa

What is Physics?

• Greek for “The Nature of Things”• An attempt to discover the

fundamental laws of nature, and their mathematical basis

• Examples: motion of planets, the organization of electrons in atoms, the flow of electricity through matter

• Carried out through experiment, theory, and computer simulation

What is astronomy?

• The study of properties of astronomical objects and the laws that govern them

• Objects range from meteors (40 miles above your heads) to the first stars in the universe.

• Astronomy draws on physics, but also chemistry, geology, and (in future) biology.

Why study physics and do physics research?

Reason #1: The desire to understand nature (“Natural

Philosophy”)

Why study physics and do physics research?

Reason #2: Physics as the basis for technology

Carbon nanotubes in “Field Effect Transistors”

Physics and Useful Technology: Controlled Fusion

The next (very) large step in controlled fusion: ITER

Careers in physics

• Research scientist

• Engineer

• Scientific manager (aerospace, electronics)

• Medicine

• Law

• Education (high school, community college, college)

Education for a career in physics (Part I: high school)

• Take all the mathematics and science courses available to you

• Minimum: 4 years of HS math, science through chemistry

• Optimum: HS math through some calculus, science through physics

• Take the humanities seriously too!

• Don’t take a vacation your senior year

Education for a career in physics (Part II: college and

beyond)

• Undergraduate education: (4 years of physics and mathematics)

• Graduate education (Master’s or PhD): About 5 years (PhD) of advanced courses and research. PhD necessary for research or college teaching, not other career paths

How much will I make?

Conclusion

The sciences represent the exciting intellectual frontier of the future. By participating in

them, you can be a part of new discoveries and the

development of new technologies for the world of

tomorrow

Study physics and astronomy at the

University of Iowa

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Iowa offers degrees in

physics, astronomy, and applied physics. Come visit us!