Finding a job
Physics
There will be a range of potential employers interested in physics graduates, including academic institutions, industry and/or government research organisations.
The variety of skills you have developed as a physics graduate, will provide you with a fantastic platform from which to enter a range of interesting sectors.
Which sectors employ physics graduates?
Useful websites to help you start your job search
MyCareer
Access the Careers and Employability Service's online jobs board to search the latest vacancies, save jobs and set up vacancy alerts.
Higherin
Discover grad jobs, insider advice and roles that fit you.
Bright Network
Graduate jobs advertised within the science sector, including roles in physics.
TargetJobs
Search for jobs across different sectors and gain useful information and advice to help with your job search.
- CERN - the world's largest particle laboratory offers a range of graduate programmes across entry levels, including fellowships and technical experience programmes.
- BAE Systems - as a leading global defence and aerospace company BAE Systems provides a range of early careers opportunities across its engineering and business areas.
- BuroHappold - offers a range of graduate opportunities to develop careers in engineering and consulting.
- Defence Jobs - an online jobs board which provides a full range of UK roles within a variety of industries.
- Diamond - the Diamond Light Source synchrotron facility provides employees with the opportunity to develop either engineering-focused or scientific-focused careers.
- DSTL- the government’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory offers a variety of graduate roles, including its Graduate Development Programme.
- E.ON - one of the UK's leading energy providers, has a range of opportunities looking at pioneering energy solutions and digital products for its customers.
- Experian - Experian Decision Analytics provides credit risk and fraud management consulting services and products; offering the potential for a range career opportunities.
- GCHQ - the Government Communications Headquarters for national intelligence and security provides a range of opportunities related to technology, engineering, analysis and research.
- Government Statistical Service - The GSS collects, analyses and publishes official statistics and offers a range of career development opportunities.
- Government Operational Research Service - GORS supports policy-making, strategy and operations, and employs around 500 analysts.
- IBM- offers a range of consulting, business, technology and design-based graduate roles, aiming to kick-start a career in the industry.
- Institute of Physics - a range of different employers are registered with the professional body - more information can be found through the website.
- Leonardo in the UK- as a leader in electronics and IT, international company, Leonardo offers a range of graduate opportunities in electronics, defence and security systems.
- Met Office - the UK’s national weather service offers a range of graduate opportunities across science, engineering, technology and IT and forecasting and observations.
- Office for National Statistics - The Office for National Statistics is responsible for collecting and publishing statistics related to the UK's economy, population and society and offers a range of graduate opportunities.
- Wellcome- a two year graduate development programme, offering the opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals in a range of areas, including funding, policy, investments, public engagement, communications and operations.
Further study
Some physics undergraduates will be keen to explore the potential for further study in a specialist area. An increasing number of students consider postgraduate or further study as an option. You may choose this option for many different reasons which can include:
- Developing specialist expertise in an aspect of your first degree subject;
- Changing direction into a new subject area and develop new skills;
- Entering a profession for which a postgraduate course is essential;
- Enhancing your employment prospects in areas where specialist knowledge is needed.
Some of the most popular physics-related courses at postgraduate level include astrophysics; quantum physics; particle physics; mathematical physics; thermodynamics and nanotechnology.
Some physics graduates complete a teaching qualification, while others begin a PhD to start a career in research science.
For more information on further study and to find a course that interests you, visit the sites below:
Recruitment agencis
Recruitment consultants work with individuals to help them find suitable work to match their skills. Agency Central is the UK's leading recruitment agency directory. An advanced search and filter system finds the agencies which match your needs.
- STEM Recruitment - A recruitment agency that support students and graduates from science, technology, engineering and mathematics disciplines.
- STEM Recruitment Solutions - An independent consultancy for the scientific, technology, engineering and manufacturing industries.
- Graduate Recruitment Bureau - a specialist recruitment agency placing graduates into relevant opportunities. They work with graduate recruiters across sectors, including some of the UK’s fastest growing companies.
Are you looking for a role in Hampshire? Our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy can help!
If you're in the final year of your degree, you can register for support from our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy. They work with over 3,000 employers in the local area to place our students into fantastic graduate careers.
Speculative applications
Speculative applications involve sending a CV and cover letter to an employer to ask if they have any vacancies, even if the company is not currently advertising for a role. They're a great way to access "hidden jobs" that go unadvertised.
Submitting a speculative application shows your interest in a specific company and your willingness to go above and beyond to develop your skills and understanding of the industry.
Learn how to send a speculative application
Start your own business
Freelancing is another career path for those in physics. Our Student Startup team can offer further support with freelancing and starting your own business.
