Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.
U.S. Workers
21,340
Median Salary
$166,290
10-Year Growth
+4.0%
Annual Openings
1,700
Typical entry: Doctoral or professional degree
15 of 15 tasks have some AI capability
Exposure Trend
This score reflects estimated AI technical capability for tasks in this occupation. It does not predict employment changes, and it does not account for company-specific constraints, regulation, or adoption barriers.
Perform complex calculations as part of the analysis and evaluation of data, using computers.
AI: Fully automatable - Performing complex calculations for data analysis is already automated by software and AI tools that can execute and scale such computations reliably.
Analyze data from research conducted to detect and measure physical phenomena.
AI: Fully automatable - Analyzing research data to detect and measure physical phenomena is highly automatable using modern ML, statistical pipelines, and domain-specific analysis software.
Design computer simulations to model physical data so that it can be better understood.
AI: Fully automatable - By 2025 AI can design and implement computer simulations, generate code, select numerical methods, and fit models to data with minimal human guidance, though validation is advisable.
Conduct application evaluations and analyze results to determine commercial, industrial, scientific, medical, military, or other uses for electro-optical devices.
AI: Fully automatable - AI can analyze device performance data, run simulations, and identify plausible commercial, scientific, or military applications of electro-optical devices with high autonomy given adequate data.
Direct testing and monitoring of contamination of radioactive equipment, and recording of personnel and plant area radiation exposure data.
AI: Partial - AI systems can automate monitoring, data logging, and flagging of radiation exposure, but directing on-site testing and ensuring safety compliance still requires human oversight and physical action.
Describe and express observations and conclusions in mathematical terms.
AI: Partial - AI can translate observations into mathematical descriptions and fit models, but originating novel theoretical formulations and deep conceptual interpretation still largely require human insight.
Observe the structure and properties of matter, and the transformation and propagation of energy, using equipment such as masers, lasers, and telescopes to explore and identify the basic principles governing these phenomena.
AI: Partial - AI can control instruments, acquire and analyze observational data, and suggest interpretations, but full experimental exploration and novel discovery using physical apparatus remain human-led.
Develop theories and laws on the basis of observation and experiments, and apply these theories and laws to problems in areas such as nuclear energy, optics, and aerospace technology.
AI: Partial - AI can propose hypotheses, fit models, and test them against data, yet the creative leap and theoretical synthesis required to develop new physical laws are not fully automatable by 2025.
Teach physics to students.
AI: Partial - AI can deliver curriculum, tutor students, generate assessments, and personalize learning, but comprehensive teaching (mentorship, labs, classroom management) still benefits from human teachers.
Report experimental results by writing papers for scientific journals or by presenting information at scientific conferences.
AI: Partial - AI can draft papers, produce figures, and generate presentations, but human authorship, interpretation, credibility, and ethical responsibility remain necessary for formal reporting and dissemination.
Collaborate with other scientists in the design, development, and testing of experimental, industrial, or medical equipment, instrumentation, and procedures.
AI: Partial - AI can contribute to design, propose tests, and generate documentation but cannot fully replace the hands-on, interdisciplinary coordination and experimental judgment humans provide.
Develop manufacturing, assembly, and fabrication processes of lasers, masers, infrared, and other light-emitting and light-sensitive devices.
AI: Partial - AI can design and optimize manufacturing and fabrication processes via simulation and analysis, but implementing, validating, and iterating physical production processes requires human engineering and shop-floor work.
Develop standards of permissible concentrations of radioisotopes in liquids and gases.
AI: Partial - AI can model exposure-risk relationships and propose permissible concentration limits, but setting standards requires regulatory judgment, stakeholder input, and policy decisions beyond pure automation.
Conduct research pertaining to potential environmental impacts of atomic energy-related industrial development to determine licensing qualifications.
AI: Partial - AI can perform environmental modeling, analyze impacts, and support licensing recommendations, but conducting field research, stakeholder engagement, and final licensing decisions remain human responsibilities.
Advise authorities of procedures to be followed in radiation incidents or hazards, and assist in civil defense planning.
AI: Partial - AI can generate procedures, checklists, and scenario analyses to advise authorities and support civil defense planning but cannot fully assume the legal responsibility, judgment, and on-the-ground coordination required in high‑stakes radiation incidents.