Physics Jobs for theoretical physicist outside academia

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the career prospects for theoretical physicists who do not secure positions in academia after completing their PhD or postdoc, particularly in fields like high energy physics and cosmology. Participants highlight the disparity between the number of PhD graduates and available permanent academic positions, leading many to seek alternative career paths. While finance is frequently mentioned as a common avenue, there is interest in exploring other opportunities outside this sector. A significant point raised is the importance of programming skills; those who have not engaged in programming during their PhD are advised to learn these skills, as many physicists, even those focused on theoretical work, have found that programming knowledge is crucial for securing employment in various fields.
cestyx
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Hello,

I would like to know what can do theoretical physicist who don't get a job in academia, after a phd in theoretical physics or after a postdoc for example.
I am thinking about people working in theoretical high energy physics, cosmology or things like that. If we compare the number of phd and of permanent positions, it seems a lot of people have to do something else. What jobs do these people find?

I read a lot of threads about finance. Now are there any opportunities outside of finance?
What about people who have not done any programming or computer work during their phd?

Thanks.
 
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In my experience, if you didn't do any programming for your phd, you'd better learn somewhere. Most of the phds I know, including strictly pen-and-paper theorists (myself included), had to know some programming to land their current jobs.
 

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