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Welcome to the brand‑new 2026 edition of Physics World Careers, your gateway to the latest insights, opportunities and career inspiration for physicists at every stage of their journey.

We’re excited to launch the 10th edition of our annual careers guide – designed to showcase the vast, dynamic world of physics today. This year’s edition brings together an exceptional mix of real‑world stories, expert advice and sector‑specific insights to help you navigate the next steps in your career.

Inside, you’ll find an exclusive feature with two senior leaders from the UK intelligence agency GCHQ, offering a rare glimpse into how physicists are driving innovation at the heart of national security. We also shine a spotlight on the rapidly expanding world of nuclear energy, exploring the many roles physicists are stepping into as this sector evolves.

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The IOP Publishing Early Career Researcher Hub

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Whether you’re new to publishing or looking to enhance your research impact, we’ve got you covered:

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Join our community of student contributors and write for Physics World

Are you a PhD student? Share your passion for physics by writing articles about the latest research and developments in your field – and receive training and mentorship from the expert journalists at Physics World.

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Professional registration is a highly regarded peer-reviewed assessment. It provides external validation and recognition of your achievements, skills, knowledge, experience and values, as a professional in your field.

To reflect the diverse pathways of our members, we offer seven registrations for you to choose from.

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Featured employer

Life at Oxford Ionics, an IonQ company
Oxford Ionics

The future is quantum. Oxford Ionics is at the forefront of pioneering quantum computing, delivering world-leading innovation to create the most powerful, accurate, and reliable quantum systems.

Get a snapshot of what it’s like to work at Oxford Ionics and hear from the amazing team behind the work we do.

Watch their video: Life at Oxford Ionics, an IonQ company

 

Visit Oxford Ionic's profile page

Careers newsletter

Sign up today for our careers newsletter. Sent once every two months, the newsletter brings together inspiring case studies, valuable careers advice and information from leading employers you might be interested in working for. To sign up simply sign in to your account and tick the “Careers bimonthly” box.

Physics World LIVE Careers discussion

Physics World Live Careers talk on demand
What can you do with a physics degree?

The beauty of a physics degree is that it can open doors to countless careers opportunities. But sometimes the sheer breadth of options can be daunting for physics students and recent graduates. In this Physics World Live panel, careers experts will guide you through the careers maze.

Speakers:
Crystal Bailey, director of programs and inclusive practices at the American Physical Society
Tamara Clelford, leader of the Chartered Physicist review at the Institute of Physics
Araceli Venegas-Gomez, chief executive and founder of Qureca
Tushna Commissariat, features editor of Physics World and editor of the annual Physics World Careers guide

View on demand

Find even more case studies and information in our archive

Careers 2025

Careers 2024

Careers 2023

Careers 2022

Careers 2021

Careers 2020

Careers 2019

Careers 2018

Careers 2017

BSQA 2024

Grad Careers 24

IPEM Careers 25

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