How An Education In Quantum Physics Can Launch A Successful Career

Are you someone who is obsessed with Big Bang Theory? Is Sheldon Cooper your role model? Do you enjoy learning about atomic and subatomic particles, and how they work? If you love learning physics and math, a career in Quantum Physics might just be your calling!

Be it computers, smartphones, lasers or any telecommunication devices- quantum physics is behind them all! Quantum means ‘the smallest discrete unit of a phenomenon’. It is the field of study concerned with nature at its most basic and minute scale. This includes researching how theoretical concepts affect the greater universe as well as the behaviour and characteristics of atoms and subatomic particles. This is a field with tons of opportunities and lots of promise. Let’s get to know it better!

What Exactly is Quantum Physics?

Because of their entanglement and conflicting identities, the odd world of particles and energies in our cosmos is even more fascinating. The study of this strange universe, the fascinating behaviour of atoms and other subatomic particles, and how to use this knowledge to improve our environment is what we call Quantum Physics.

It is currently one of the most fascinating subjects and many people believe it will revolutionise society as we know it. The majority of the physics and chemistry that we are familiar with today would not have been feasible without understanding the structure of the atom. In fact, we are surrounded by instances of the use of quantum physics every day, including semiconductors, MRIs and lasers. Quantum theory has numerous practical applications, and there may be infinitely more in the future. Sounds interesting? Let’s see how to get into this field!

How to Study Quantum Physics?

A bachelor’s degree in physics or a closely related subject, such mathematics or another science, is frequently the first step for aspiring quantum physicists. You must earn a PhD in Physics if you want to work in research or academia as a physicist. However, a bachelor’s degree, such as a BSc in Physics, can be used as your entry into the field of physics. You can pursue a BSc in Physics, a BSc Honours in Physics or a BSc in Applied Physics at this level. You’ll need to have Physics and Maths as compulsory subjects in Class 11-12 to be eligible for this course. The IITs also offer a B.Tech in Engineering Physics, if you’d like to take the engineering route to get into this field. Admission to the courses could either be merit-based or require you to clear specific entrance exams. Click here to know more about your options at an undergraduate level in India.

At a postgraduate level, you will have to enrol for an MSc in Physics, which allows you to pick specialisations like Classical Mechanics, Biophysics, Thermodynamics, Quantum Mechanics, Optics & Atomic & Molecular Physics, etc. Click here to know more about doing your masters in this field. Upon completing your master’s degree, you can begin working on your PhD, which can take four to eight years to complete. While you don’t need a PhD to land a job in this field, it will be essential if you plan to work in research or academia. 

Some of the top universities of world offering courses in quantum physics are: 

• California Institute of Technology 
• Stanford University 
• Harvard University 
• University of Copenhagen 
• Princeton University 

If you’re planning to study in India, here are some of the top universities you can consider for a degree in quantum physics: 

• Indian Institute of Astrophysics 
• Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) 
• Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology
•  Indian Institute of Science

Now that you know what you need to study to get into this field, let’s understand what opportunities lie in the working world of quantum physics!

Careers in Quantum Physics

There’s a lot one can predict about the future by studying the intricate details of the past and present. And that’s what Quantum Physics is all about. Let’s get to know the cool career options one can explore in quantum physics:

1. Quantum Physicist

Quantum physicists study the physical principles that control atomic and subatomic objects. They take up tasks like Instrument building, equipment running, instrument repair, data analysis, and paper authoring. Instrumental work won’t be done by theoretical quantum physicists, who will instead spend more time, well, theorising. The average salary for a Physicist in India is 7 lakhs.

2. Data Scientist

Data scientists gather and examine large groupings of data. They use this information to make judgments and provide thorough answers to challenging projects or research-related queries. Data scientists working in the quantum sector may use machine learning to create quantum computer algorithms. The average yearly income for data scientists in India is 13.0 lakhs, with salaries ranging from 5.5 lakhs to 25.0 lakhs.

3. Research Scientist

A research scientist develops a theory-based hypothesis, and then plans and performs laboratory trials and experiments to support or refute it. Research scientists may publish their findings in peer-reviewed journals or other websites. Quantum physics researchers may concentrate on comprehending, minimising, and resolving problems with quantum computing. The average yearly pay for a research scientist in India is 7.0 lakhs, with salaries ranging from 3.3 lakhs to 15.0 lakhs.

4. Medical Technologist

Medical Technologists conduct expert laboratory work while adhering to established clinic protocols. They also conduct chemical and biological testing on patient specimens in order to diagnose medical conditions. They could assist doctors by gathering information on patients and recommending diagnoses or potential therapies. Quantum physics-trained medical technicians may work with microscopic testing and employ quantum mechanics to improve the early diagnosis of diseases before they completely appear in a patient.According to data from the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), the median annual salary for a Medical Technologist in India is around INR 3,60,000 per year. 

5. Professor

Physics professors frequently teach classes in addition to conducting research. Their daily and weekly to-do lists include planning and delivering lectures, grading homework, and holding office hours. Physicists also participate in colloquia, talk at colloquia, visit conferences, apply for grants, apply for tenure, meet with university authorities and grant committees, mentor graduate students, prepare letters of reference, among other things that aren’t quite daily tasks. The salary of the Physics Faculty in India ranges between ₹ 3.0 Lakhs to ₹ 18.0 Lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 7.2 Lakhs.

6. Optical Engineer

Solving issues with light and optical technology is the main objective of optical engineering. Among many other tools, optical engineers could design and construct lasers, telescopes, consumer electronics, and fibre optic communication systems. These technologies are created, examined, and tested by optical engineers, who frequently work in industries including aerospace, agriculture, and healthcare.

An Optical Engineer’s salary in India ranges between ₹ 1.4 lakhs to ₹ 20.0 lakhs with an average annual salary of ₹ 4.6 lakhs.

The Future Looks Bright!

Learning physics can be fun. Consider contacting with an academic counsellor or browsing online job boards to find potential physics internships. Quantum physics has a wide range of applications, including quantum computers and medical nanotechnology. Explore various specialities to assist you in refining your desired job path and concentrate on your studies. 

Along with numerous colleges that are keen to engage students to undertake research, MNCs like IBM, Google, Microsoft, and Intel have been active in this field for more than ten years, with Amazon and Honeywell more recently joining the fray. It’s a terrific time to work in this industry because there are many prospects for entrepreneurs both in India and internationally.

Get #CareerReady in Quantum Physics

Both globally and in India, there is a sharp increase in demand for quantum technology specialists. If you want to ensure this field is right for you, we are here to help! 

Kick-start your career discovery journey with Mentoria and discover the right career fit for you. Feel free to call us to speak to our career mentors and choose the right career guidance plan that suits your needs.