Physics is a fiercely competitive industry sector, both for employers and potential employees, yet still offers a breadth of opportunities for qualified candidates almost unrivalled in any other marketplace.
Whilst traditionally a niche qualification, those possessing physics skills such as problem solving and numeracy are no longer confined to the traditional career routes of teaching and scientific research.
While engineering, aerospace and defence have also cherry-picked many of the most able candidates, technological advancements in finance services have also attracted a share of those with aptitude in physics because of the remuneration on offer. IT, particularly software design and development, also appeals to the physicians skill set.
With so many industries competing for the best candidates specialist recruitment agencies can often match individuals to the most complementary employers. In some cases recruitment can in fact occur before completion of university courses, with student sponsorships coupled with work placements an increasing trend.
Such is the demand for those with physics qualifications in the UK that businesses are often forced to scour other countries to fill roles, with the Far East a particularly popular destination. Conversely, this means British persons qualified in physics can also explore opportunities abroad to plug skills gaps.