Physical sciences, such as chemistry, physics, and geology, are fields that involve the study of matter, energy, and the interactions between the two. STEM careers in physical sciences include scientists, engineers, technicians, and other professionals who work in research, development, and analysis in a wide range of industries, from pharmaceuticals to energy production. They investigate and apply physical principles to solve problems and improve products, processes, and services. They may work in laboratories, outdoors, or inside offices and factories.
STEM Careers in Physics
- Astronomer: Astronomers study the universe and its components, such as stars, planets, galaxies, and other celestial bodies. They use observational and theoretical physics to analyze data and make predictions about the origins, evolution, and structure of the universe.
- Particle Physicist: Particle physicists study the smallest known particles, such as quarks, neutrinos, and leptons. They investigate the structure of matter and the forces that govern the interactions of these particles.
- Optics Engineer: Optics engineers design, develop, and test optical systems, such as lenses, telescopes, microscopes, and lasers. They use physics principles to create optical components, systems, and instruments that have a variety of applications.
- Nuclear Physicist: Nuclear physicists study the structure and behavior of atomic nuclei and the particles within them. They conduct research on the properties and interactions of particles, such as protons, neutrons, and electrons.
- Acoustics Engineer: Acoustics engineers design and develop systems and components that minimize or eliminate noise. They use physics principles to analyze sound waves and develop solutions to reduce noise pollution.
- Medical Physicist: Medical physicists specialize in the use of radiation and imaging technologies to diagnose and treat diseases. They develop and test new technologies and techniques to improve patient safety and outcomes.
- Applied Physicist: Applied physicists use physics principles and experimental techniques to solve problems in a variety of fields, such as biophysics, engineering, and materials science. They often work in research and development, or in technical support roles.
STEM Careers in Chemistry
- Analytical Chemist: Analytical chemists use sophisticated methods to analyze the chemical composition of a variety of materials. They develop new methods to identify and quantify compounds, and also use existing methods to analyze samples.
- Pharmaceutical Chemist: Pharmaceutical chemists develop drugs and medicines. They often work with other scientists and clinicians to understand the properties of drugs, design the formulation of drugs, and analyze the effects of drugs on the body.
- Industrial Chemist: Industrial chemists use their knowledge of chemistry to create new materials and products used in the manufacturing process. They develop and optimize new processes, create new products, and troubleshoot existing processes.
- Forensic Chemist: Forensic chemists use their knowledge of chemistry to analyze evidence that is collected in criminal cases. They analyze blood, hair, and other samples to determine the identity of a suspect or the cause of death.
- Environmental Chemist: Environmental chemists study the effects of environmental pollutants on the environment. They analyze water, air, and soil samples to identify pollutants and their sources, and develop ways to reduce their impacts.
- Polymer Chemist: Polymer chemists develop new polymers and study their properties. They work with plastics, rubbers, and other synthetic materials to create new products and improve existing ones.
- Food Chemist: Food chemists study the chemical composition of foods and develop new ways to process and preserve them. They also investigate the effects of food additives on human health.
STEM Careers in Earth Sciences
- Geologist: Geologists study the Earth’s composition, structure, and processes to understand its history and resources.
- Geophysicist: Geophysicists use physical principles to analyze the Earth’s internal structure and processes.
- Seismologist: Seismologists use data from earthquakes and other sources to understand the Earth’s structure and processes.
- Hydrologist: Hydrologists study water systems, including the water cycle, surface water, and groundwater.
- Oceanographer: Oceanographers study the oceans, their physical and chemical properties, and the marine life that inhabits them.
- Meteorologist: Meteorologists study the atmosphere, its structure, and its processes.
- Environmental Scientist: Environmental scientists study the effect of human activities on the environment, and develop strategies to protect it.
- Atmospheric Scientist: Atmospheric scientists study the atmosphere and its processes, such as climate change.
STEM Careers in Materials Science
- Materials Scientist: Develops new materials, tests and evaluates the properties of existing materials, and researches ways to improve them.
- Materials Engineer: Designs, develops, and tests materials and products made from various materials to meet specific customer and industry requirements.
- Metallurgist: Studies metals and alloys, including their properties, structure, composition, and behavior.
- Ceramic Engineer: Designs and manufactures ceramic products such as tiles and bricks.
- Polymer Scientist: Develops and tests new polymers and plastics, and researches ways to improve existing materials.
- Textile Engineer: Develops and tests fabrics and textiles to ensure they meet industry standards.
- Paper Scientist: Develops and tests new paper products and researches ways to improve existing materials.
- Glass Scientist: Develops and tests new glass products and researches ways to improve existing materials.