Physics Graduates Get Career Guidance from Expert Panel

Determining career paths after completing a physics degree can be daunting for graduates. An expert panel shared valuable insights during an episode of Physics World Live on April 9, 2025. The discussion featured four professionals with backgrounds in physics and engineering, each offering advice on navigating career opportunities in this field.

The panel included Crystal Bailey, director of programmes and inclusive practices at the American Physical Society (APS); Tamara Clelford, a physics consultant leading a review at the Institute of Physics; Araceli Venegas-Gomez, CEO of the quantum education company QURECA; and Tushna Commissariat, features editor of Physics World. Each panelist emphasized the importance of self-assessment and exploration for physics graduates.

Identifying Personal Values and Interests

According to Crystal Bailey, the journey to a fulfilling career begins with understanding one’s values and interests. She stresses the importance of self-reflection: “Finding a fulfilling career means trying to find something that matches your values.” Graduates should consider what aspects of their work matter most—whether it is work-life balance, flexibility, or financial success.

Bailey encourages students to engage in “informational interviews” to gain insights into various professions. This approach allows graduates to ask experienced professionals about their day-to-day responsibilities, industry trends, and career advice. Building a professional network through these interactions can be invaluable in the job search process.

Tamara Clelford echoed Bailey’s sentiments, noting that understanding personal preferences is critical. “Are you a leader or do you like to be managed? Do you prefer to work in a large corporation or a start-up?” she asked. Clelford’s background in both large defense companies and freelance consulting illustrates the diverse environments physicists may choose to enter.

Developing a Strategic Career Plan

Panelist Araceli Venegas-Gomez highlighted the significance of having a strategic plan, even if it evolves over time. She advised graduates to identify their long-term goals and assess their skills accordingly. “Create a LinkedIn profile, expand your network, and attend career events,” Venegas-Gomez suggested. Engaging in mock interviews and familiarizing oneself with resume writing can also bolster job applications.

Tushna Commissariat emphasized the importance of starting the job search early, encouraging graduates to seek internships and summer jobs well ahead of graduation. She recounted the story of a physicist who secured an internship at NASA at just 15 years old, illustrating that proactive steps can lead to significant opportunities.

Skills that Set Physicists Apart

When discussing the unique attributes physicists bring to the workforce, Bailey noted that physicists often command well-paid positions that involve engineering. “What sets physicists apart is a confidence that they can teach themselves whatever they need to know to go to the next step,” she explained. This “intellectual fearlessness” is a valuable trait, allowing physicists to tackle complex problems and learn new skills as needed.

Clelford added that physicists possess a broad problem-solving capability, enabling them to address a variety of challenges, whether they are hardware or software-related. This adaptability is further enhanced by their willingness to seek expertise when needed.

Venegas-Gomez pointed out that physicists often possess multidisciplinary skills that can be applied across various sectors. “Physicists don’t only solve problems; we also want to know why they exist,” she said, highlighting a mindset that encourages inquiry and exploration.

Commissaariat noted the confidence physicists have in their ability to tackle challenges, stating, “You see physicists going into biology and saying, ‘Oh cancer, I can do that.’” This attitude fosters innovative solutions and encourages physicists to engage in diverse fields.

Reflections on Career Journeys

The panelists also shared lessons learned throughout their careers. Crystal Bailey wishes she had recognized her personal agency in shaping her career path earlier. “Don’t doubt yourself. Don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t do something,” she advised.

Clelford reflected on the fluid nature of career goals, acknowledging that priorities change over time. “Trust your instincts—and change when you need to change,” she advised.

Venegas-Gomez reassured graduates that not completing a PhD does not equate to failure. “There are millions of options, so remind yourself that everything is going to be okay,” she said.

Commissaariat cautioned that setbacks during studies may feel overwhelming but are often not as significant as they seem. “Your marks on a particular test won’t determine your entire future,” she noted, emphasizing the range of skills that develop during academic pursuits.

The insights shared by this expert panel provide physics graduates with guidance as they navigate their career paths. For further resources, interested individuals can explore the Physics World Jobs portal and the career services offered by the Institute of Physics.