Physical Scientists
40AI USED FOR40%moving to78%
THE DOOR, NOWC
THE DOOR, 20 YRSE
STARTING PAY£25,000 - £30,000
MOAT NOT YET CLASSIFIEDA real score, but the moat is not yet classified. No claim either way.
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CAREERMASH (EN)FROM PHYSICAL SCIENCES →
Physical Scientists
Physical scientists study how the world works - from tiny atoms to huge energy systems. They do experiments and find patterns in what they discover, then use what they learn to help solve real problems like making cleaner energy or finding new medicines.
THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years
AI is used for very little of this work today
Hands-on work, caring for people and dealing with the real world are among the hardest things to automate, and this job leans on them. We have not yet formally classified its moat, so we make no claim either way, but the exposure score speaks for itself.
Career progression path
1FIRST STEPJunior Physical ScientistAs a Junior Physical Scientist, you will assist in laboratory experiments, collect data, and support senior scientists in research projects. This role is ideal for recent graduates looking to gain practical experience in the field.£25,000 - £30,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-Level Physical ScientistIn this role, you will lead specific research projects, analyse complex data sets, and mentor junior staff. You will be expected to contribute to publications and present findings at conferences.£35,000 - £45,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Physical ScientistAs a Senior Physical Scientist, you will oversee large research initiatives, secure funding, and drive strategic direction in your area of expertise. You will be a key figure in shaping the future of scientific research and innovation.£55,000+
The degree route
Real courses in this career's subject, from the live library of 35,000; every one is AI impact assessed through its actual graduate destinations.
🎓Physics with AstrophysicsUniversity of Exeter · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£35,000 median
🎓Acoustical Engineering with Industrial Placement YearUniversity of Southampton · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£32,000 median
🎓Chemistry with Cosmetic ScienceThe University of Reading · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
🎓Chemistry with Medicinal ChemistryThe University of Manchester · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£29,000 median
All Physical Sciences courses as cards →
Recommended UK degrees
Real courses that qualify you for this career, from the same register that priced the degree above.
Physics with AstrophysicsUniversity of Exeter · DegreeAcoustical Engineering with Industrial Placement YearUniversity of Southampton · DegreePhysicsQueen's University of Belfast · DegreeChemistry with Cosmetic ScienceThe University of Reading · DegreeChemistry with Medicinal ChemistryThe University of Manchester · DegreePhysicsUniversity of Aberdeen · Degree