What physics fields having to do with space are growing?

AI Thread Summary
In exploring career options in physics, particularly with an interest in space, it's important to consider the job market for various specializations. Theoretical physics has a low job demand, leading many to consider astrophysics, though specific job prospects in this field are unclear. Competition for permanent research positions in academia is high, with many Ph.D. holders needing multiple postdoctoral roles before securing a permanent job. The number of research proposals is increasing, but funding is not keeping pace, heightening competition for grants. Despite challenges in traditional research roles, there are good prospects for physicists in applied research and technical fields. Graduates with degrees in physics or astronomy can leverage their skills in various occupations, especially given the reliance on federal funding for many research projects, particularly in astronomy. Understanding these dynamics can help in making informed decisions about pursuing a career in physics.
jhus96
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I'm in my first semester at a JC and I'm trying to figure out what kind of physics I might want to pursue as a career. I know I love space, and I want to be able to apply my math towards it. What initially sparked my interest in physics was theoretical physics, however, I soon realized the job demand was low. I've also looked into astrophysics because that sounds like something I would love but I haven't gotten any specific information on the job market. I also don't know what I'd do with an astrophysics major (I'd rather not be a professor as I dislike teaching and am bad at it). Also, don't be shy to name other fields of physics besides astrophysics that focus on space because I'm still trying to figure out what field to pursue.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You might want to look at these sites.

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/physicists-and-astronomers.htm

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/physicists-and-astronomers.htm#tab-8

Job Prospects
Competition for permanent research appointments, such as those at colleges and universities, is expected to be strong. Increasingly, those with a Ph.D. need to work through multiple postdoctoral appointments before finding a permanent position. In addition, the number of research proposals submitted for funding has been growing faster than the amount of funds available, causing more competition for research grants.

Despite competition for traditional research jobs, prospects should be good for physicists in applied research, development, and related technical fields. Graduates with any academic degree in physics or astronomy, from bachelor’s degree to doctorate, will find their knowledge of science and mathematics useful for entry into many other occupations.

A large part of physics and astronomy research depends on federal funds, so federal budgets have a large impact on job prospects from year to year. This is especially true for astronomers, who are more likely than physicists to depend on federal funding for their work.
 
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Hello, I graduated from undergrad a few years ago with a Major in Physics and minor in Electrical Engineering. I tried to get experience working on and testing circuits through my professor who studied Neutrinos, however covid caused the opportunity to go away and I graduated with no experience or internships. I have attempted to break into the engineering industry with no success. Right now I am considering going for a Masters in Electrical Engineering and I need advice on if this would be...
So lately, my interest in the realm of optics/optoelectronics/photonics engineering has grown and I have started to seriously consider pursuing a career in the field. I have done a bit of career research and also have done some learning on the side to gather more knowledge on these topics. However, I have some questions on what a career in these fields would look like, and I wanted to find out more about this area to know what I would be getting myself into if I did make the choice to pursue...

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