Astrophysics is a subject of study that requires considerable effort, but if you are passionate about the stars and love to discover the mysteries of the universe, it can become an extremely rewarding career. However, you will need a very good level of education and experience in the field before you can reach a permanent position.
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Basic Education
Step 1. Learn about this science
The sooner you start studying the process, the sooner you will be on the right track. Go out of your way to know and understand astrophysics, and as you work to build a career in this field, be aware of your expectations.
- Generally speaking, astrophysicists are divided into theoretical and empirical. Theorists study the physical processes of the universe, empiricists use mathematical models and computer simulations to explain astrophysical phenomena.
- Regardless of your specialization, you will need to develop and explain theories about the mechanisms of the universe, analyze data, test hypotheses and publish scientific texts.
Step 2. Attend appropriate classes during high school
If you are still in middle school or high school, plan to attend classes whose subjects are related to the field of astrophysics. This may not be easy, but you will still have to mind taking the math and science courses you need to have the foundation you will need later in college in astrophysics.
- All science lessons can be useful, but physics and chemistry will be of particular use. You will also need to gain as much experience with advanced math as possible.
- Keep your grade point average high and, whenever you can, take advantage of advanced lessons. This will make it easier for you to be accepted into high-level astrophysics programs when you are in college.
Step 3. Join local clubs and attend events
Astronomy classes and generally clubs don't dig very deeply into the subject of astrophysics, but if you're just starting out, these resources can be a great way to learn the basics of astronomy well in advance. There is a whole host of opportunities you can consider.
- Look for an astronomy club at or near your school.
- Buy a card from the nearest astronomical observatory.
- Attend free or low-cost classes at your local library or university.
- Attend events related to astronomy and organized by planetariums, universities or other organizations.
Method 2 of 4: Advanced Education
Step 1. Get a college degree
Your best bet would be to look for a university with an astrophysics program, but since it's rare to find one, you may need to get a degree in physics or astronomy first.
- You could also major in both physics and astronomy, but this would take twice as many years. Instead, consider obtaining a diploma in one of the two studies and a certificate in the other.
- Also consider computer science courses that may help you develop the skills needed to conduct research in astrophysics.
- A degree in physics or astronomy will allow you to qualify for only the basic positions. Instead of looking for positions in the research field, you should expect to find work only as a technician, research assistant or assistant at the observatory.
Step 2. Attend a Masters
While your bachelor's degree will allow you to set foot in the industry, if you want to find a higher level job you will need a Master's in astrophysics science.
- Normally a Master's degree qualifies you to work as an assistant to a more authoritative personality, or as a consultant.
- If you want to have wider access to the field of astrophysics, instead of pursuing a Masters, consider taking a PhD, which will greatly increase your career opportunities.
Step 3. Complete your PhD
If you want to have a high level job in the field of astrophysics you will need a PhD. Look for a specific program for astrophysics rather than settle for a complementary discipline.
- You will have to complete many courses in physics, astronomy, math, computer science and statistics. You will also need to write research and a thesis on an original topic.
- A doctoral program can take up to 5 or more years of time. You will likely want to look for a job while studying for your doctoral degree.
- In principle you will need a doctorate if you want to work in university as a teacher or researcher. The same is true if you have to do research on behalf of the federal government.
- Most programs require that you focus on a sub-branch of astrophysics, such as cosmology or radio astronomy.
Method 3 of 4: Professional Training
Step 1. Do some summer internships
During his student years he looks for research programs, internships or other activities that are carried out only during the summer months.
- Find out if your university's physics or astrophysics department can help you find a place that is relevant to your program. Some schools have offices dedicated to "career services" which can help.
- See if the major organizations offer research internships. Among the possible sources it also evaluates the National Science Foundation and NASA.
Step 2. Take advantage of research programs
Even after you earn your PhD, you will need to fill temporary roles before you get to a permanent position. Most postdoctoral research positions have a duration of two or three years.
- During this time you will find yourself working alongside more experienced scientists who are themselves committed to advancing in their respective specialties.
- Initially your work will be supervised very carefully, but gradually, as you gain more experience, you will be able to work with greater independence.
Step 3. Create a large circle of contacts
The field of astrophysics is very competitive, so you will need to gain as much experience as possible and make as many contacts as possible within the industry. Always try to make a good impression on your employers and colleagues. They are contacts who can later recommend you for a permanent position and that could just be the recommendation that will make all the difference.
Consider opportunities abroad. Most of the research programs will be concentrated within your country, but if you really want to gain an edge on the competition while gaining experience in the field, don't limit yourself to national borders. Some research programs abroad may only be accessible to citizens of those countries, but they are often also open to foreign candidates
Method 4 of 4: Finding Jobs
Step 1. Choose between research and teaching
Whatever career you choose as an astrophysicist, you will always be involved in research. Some permanent positions are focused on research only, while others combine research and teaching. The former are usually easier to find, the latter are limited to university chairs.
- Research is often a self-conducted study, but it can sometimes require the collaboration of several people.
- Strictly research positions allow for flexible working hours, while teaching has set hours.
- In addition to the teaching position, you may also have opportunities to publicly speak about new developments or similar topics. If you work for an observatory or similar organization, you may occasionally need to interact with the public informally.
Step 2. Learn where to look
Astrophysics is a very specialized branch, so you have a limited scope when looking for an employer. Generally, look for organizations that carry out all kinds of activities related to astrophysics. Vacancies are limited and you may need to shop around for some time before finding an opening.
- Colleges and universities are the most common employers for astrophysicists, followed by government agencies such as NASA.
- You can also look for work in public and private companies, science centers and astronomical observatories.
Step 3. Be aware of what awaits you
You will likely spend most of your time in offices and labs. There is room for growth in this field, but it is limited to a few positions and this makes the workforce quite competitive.
- Based on statistics collected by the US Bureau of Statistics and Labor (BLS), the average pay of an astrophysicist as of May 2012 is about $ 106,360. If you work for the federal government you can earn around $ 111,020, while private organizations pay around $ 104,650 and universities pay around $ 81,180.
- Compared to other occupations, the BLS argues that the rate of growth of jobs in this field between 2012 and 2022 will be around average. In other words, jobs will increase by around 10% over the period under consideration.
Step 4. Keep up to date
If you want to keep your job or have a chance to advance a level, be prepared to have to study for a lifetime. You will always need to be aware of all the breakthroughs and new theories in astrophysics as they come to light.
