Nuclear Science Career Descriptions
Nuclear science is the branch of science that studies sub-atomic particles, ways to harness them, and their applications for various purposes. Nuclear scientists are employed in a wide range of fields including medicine, research and development, fusion research, design firms and more.
Function
Nuclear scientists study sub-atomic particles, such as neutrons, electrons and protons, and the application of them in science. Some, but not all, nuclear scientists work with radioactive materials. Many of the applications of nuclear science in our day to day lives involve the use of nuclear fission, in which the nucleus of an atom is split into smaller parts. This reaction produces nuclear energy and can also be harnessed for use in nuclear weapons. Nuclear scientists study these reactions, developing safety protocols, refining methods and testing new uses for nuclear reactions.
Types
Nuclear scientists can be employed in a number of fields, and many students majoring in nuclear engineering choose to minor in a related field. The largest growing employer in the field of nuclear science is hospitals and medical research firms. According to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, there are more than 2 million applications of nuclear medical procedures in the U.S. each year. These include nuclear imaging, radiation treatments and more. Nuclear scientists are also employed by nuclear power plants and research facilities, government agencies, national defense systems contractors, among others.
Considerations
While entry-level positions such as a nuclear science technician may only require a two-year degree, the vast majority of jobs in the field of nuclear science require an advanced degree in nuclear engineering or nuclear technologies. Education for nuclear engineering will be highly science and math-focused. An undergraduate can expect to study physics, hydraulics, chemistry and basic engineering as a part of his or her program. Graduate students will study in-depth topics related to nuclear science applications such as reactor engineering, plasma physics, fusion energy and radiation, and will be expected to participate in both group and individual research and projects.
Misconceptions
It is a commonly held belief that it is dangerous to work in the field of nuclear science; however, the truth is that many nuclear scientists do not deal with radioactive materials at all. Those who do work in facilities such as nuclear power plants have extremely low radiation exposure, comparable to what ordinary people are exposed to on a regular basis. Nuclear facilities are closely monitored by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to ensure safe working conditions for all employees.
Benefits
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts steady growth in the field of nuclear science, with adequate numbers of jobs for graduates. Nuclear scientists enjoy an average salary of $84,000, and most jobs in the field offer opportunities for advancement into higher levels of project management and oversight. Because nuclear scientists work in so many different industries, a new graduate can expect some flexibility in terms of preferences for geographic location and working hours.
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