Jobs in Nuclear physics and Particle physics.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around potential career paths for individuals with a PhD in nuclear physics or particle physics, specifically focusing on job opportunities beyond academic lecturerships. The scope includes industry applications and government roles related to nuclear physics and considerations for particle physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests various job opportunities in the nuclear physics field, including positions in nuclear power plants, design firms, nuclear fuel mining, recycling, and government licensing authorities.
  • Another participant questions the availability of jobs in particle physics, implying that opportunities may be more limited and focused on pure research.
  • A participant with a PhD in nuclear applied physics expresses uncertainty about the job market in particle physics, indicating a lack of knowledge in that area.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the job market for particle physics, with some suggesting it may be more restricted compared to nuclear physics, while others provide a range of opportunities in the latter field.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects varying levels of knowledge among participants regarding job opportunities in nuclear versus particle physics, with some assumptions about the active nature of the nuclear field and the challenges in finding roles in particle physics.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering a PhD in nuclear or particle physics, those exploring career options in physics-related fields, and professionals in academia or industry looking for insights into job markets.

PrincePhoenix
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What jobs can one get after doing a PhD in nuclear physics or particle physics except for lecturership? Where are they used?
 
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There are many fields of the private industry that are looking for physicist. I will drop the ones outside the physics field.

With a doctorship in nuclear physics, you can definitely work in a nuclear power plant. You can also work for nuclear power plant designer (Westinghouse, GE, Mitsubishi, Areva, ...). You could also find a job in the field of nuclear fuel, either in the mining for uranium, or into recycling of used fuel. To get on the other side, you could find a job at the government, for the licensing authorities.

These are the jobs that come to my mind just like that. I am sure by searchin a bit, I could find some more for you. As you can see, the nuclear field is very active. And I only talked about the nuclear fission, where there are other jobs in nuclear fusion.

Cheers
 
What about particle physics?
 
Having done my PhD in nuclear applied physics, I know less about particle physics. I believe you might be a little bit more stuck on pure research.
 

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