Description:

 

As over 99% of the universe is in a plasma state (which contains charged particles, positive ions and negative electrons or ions). Plasma physics is a fundamental physics which underpins many wide research areas such as astrophysics, space physics, laboratory ionised gases and controlled thermonuclear fusion. Currently plasma physics research has a strong footing in spacecraft propulsion technology (such as ion thrusters), plasma televisions and electronic ship manufacturing (such as computer processors).

 

 

Career Paths:

 

Plasma Physics...

• ...often leads to specialiased carers in specific areas of the subject.

• ...leads to many research careers which are mainly given out by Colleges and Universities, federal, provincial/state and muncipal government departments, private and public research laboratories, scientific or engineering consulting organisations, patent offices, agencies and law firms, energy companies, companies that develop residential, industrial or commercial products, such as microwaves and televisions.​

 

 

Education:

 

To become a plasma physicist, you need to develop a strong background in physics, quantum mechanics and mathematics. It is also important to have laboratory experience, skills in research and skills working with various computer programs, such as mapping programs and data collection and analysis programs.

 

Undergraduate Degree:

To acquire the knowledge base and skill set necessary to become a plasma physicist, you typically need to begin by pursuing an undergraduate degree in science, with a major in physics, or a degree in engineering. Having an undergraduate degree in physics will qualify you to work an entry-level plasma physics job, such as Research Assistant, or Laboratory Technician.

 

Master’s Degree:

Graduate students of plasma physics generally spend the first two years acquiring a foundation in the many areas that plasma physics is composed of: classical and quantum mechanics, electricity and magnetism, fluid dynamics, hydrodynamics, atomic physics, applied mathematics, statistical mechanics, and kinetic theory. Students also spend time in their first two years conducting research with the teaching faculty, and other faculty scientists. Obtaining an M.Sc. degree in plasma physics often qualifies graduates to work in responsible positions in industrial or government laboratories, as laboratory instructors at universities, as consultants.

 

Doctoral Degree:

A Ph.D. degree qualifies plasma physicists for permanent positions in industry. Some Ph.D. graduates choose to work as Post-Doctoral Fellows, typically for a period of 1-3 years, during which time their skills and reputations as independent plasma physics researchers are enhanced. After the fellowship, long-term employment as a plasma physicist is usually found in university teaching, or in academic, industrial or government research laboratories.

 

 

Average salary:

 

 The average salary for plasma physics jobs is £42,000. Average plasma physics salaries can vary greatly due to company, location, industry, experience and benefits.