Physicists

Physicists are scientists who seek to understand the fundamental principles governing matter, energy, space, and time. They formulate theories, test predictions, and develop models that describe natural phenomena across scales—from subatomic particles to the cosmos.

Physicists work in theoretical, experimental, and computational branches. Subfields include particle physics, nuclear physics, condensed matter physics, quantum information, atomic, molecular and optical physics, astrophysics and cosmology, plasma physics, biophysics, and geophysics. They use mathematics, computer simulations, and experimental methods such as detectors, spectrometry, telescopes, and accelerators. Large collaborations and interdisciplinary teams are common in modern research.

Education: Most physicists hold at least a bachelor's degree in physics or a closely related discipline; pursuing a PhD is common for research leadership. Training emphasizes mathematical methods, programming, data analysis, experimental design, and scientific communication.

Work settings and careers: They work in universities, national laboratories, industry research and development, and government agencies. Outcomes include new technologies, materials, drugs, and imaging techniques; advances in computing and data science. They also contribute to science policy and education.

History and impact: The modern physics tradition began with figures such as Galileo and Newton, matured with Einstein's theories of relativity and quantum mechanics, and expanded through developments in condensed matter, nuclear physics, and cosmology. Notable physicists include Albert Einstein, Marie Curie, Richard Feynman, and many others.

Ethics and practice: Physicists adhere to professional standards for safety, verification, and reproducibility; open communication and peer review remain central to scientific progress.