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Plasma Physicist

Plasma physicists study plasma, a fourth state of matter (like a supercharged gas). They work in laboratories exploring how plasma behaves, which helps scientists develop new energy sources and understand space.

Plasma Physicist

28

Physical Sciences

AI IMPACT
AI USED FOR28%moving to73%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSD
STARTING PAY£30,000 - £38,000
NO MOATNo physical, legal or personal barrier protects this work from software.

THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years

AI helps here, but has not taken over
AI is already used for some of this job, but the day-to-day work still leans on a person to decide, check and take responsibility. Nothing formally protects this job though, so the safest move is to keep building the judgement AI cannot yet copy.

Career progression path

1FIRST STEPJunior Plasma PhysicistIn this entry-level role, you will assist in laboratory experiments, collect data, and support senior researchers in their projects. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop your skills in plasma physics.£30,000 - £38,000
2GAINING EXPERIENCEMid-level Plasma PhysicistAt this stage, you will lead your own research projects, mentor junior staff, and contribute to grant applications. Your expertise will be crucial in advancing the team's research objectives.£50,000 - £65,000
3PEAK CAREERSenior Plasma Physicist/Research LeadIn a senior role, you will oversee major research initiatives, secure funding, and publish influential papers. You will be recognised as a leader in the field, shaping the direction of plasma physics research.£75,000+

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
🎓PhysicsQueen's University of Belfast · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£30,000 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
🎓PhysicsUniversity of Aberdeen · the card page · will AI take its jobs?£28,500 median

All Physical Sciences courses as cards →

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