The Ph.D. Program started in the Fall of 2001 and is one of only five HBCUs that offer
a Ph.D. in Physics.
The primary objective of the doctorate program in Physics is to provide talented graduate
students with a rigorous academic environment in which to conduct research and to
develop the analytical, empirical, and leadership skills required for mathematical,
scientific, and technological careers. The Department is comprised of fifteen tenure-track/tenured
faculty members committed to excellence in research. The faculty conducts experimental,
theoretical, and computational research in the areas of:
Axion and astrophysical particle detection
Laser ablation
Laser interactions with matter
Nanomaterial growth and properties
Plasma physics and theoretical research
Atomic and molecular scattering
Electronic and structural properties of carbon nanomaterials
Numerical algorithms and optimization methods
Quantum theory on manifolds
Energy conversion and generation
Sustainable low carbon energy and fuel generation technologies
Candace Harris, Ph.D. graduate 2018
What is Physics?
Physics is the study of matter and energy and its interactions; therefore, physics
describes the fundamental nature of our reality in this existence. It is the most
basic of sciences and the foundation of many aspects of our modern civilization. Look
around, you would be hard pressed to find pieces of technology i.e., micro and nanoelectronics,
lasers, solar panels, nuclear power plants, as well as medical devices, that were
not at one time research tools of, or examples of some fundamental principles discovered
and explored by physicists. As our world continues its juggernaut of unstoppable technical
progress, sustaining economic activity will require increased numbers of individuals
educated at higher and higher levels of technical skill. There is no level higher
than that of physics, thus studying physics is great preparation for an endeavor that
you may desire or undertake. On the other hand, you may just have an insatiable curiosity
about how the universe works! Studying physics is the best way to satisfy this curiosity
and to prepare for the challenges of the life in the future.
Staci Brown, Ph.D. graduate 2015 and Dr. Codjo Akpovo
Careers in Physics
Since physics is the most basic of sciences, an undergraduate degree in physics can
take you almost anywhere. You can pursue a graduate degree in Physics or seek lucrative
employment in numerous fields.
Delonia Wiggins, first FAMU female Ph.D. in Physics graduate 2010 and Dr. Joseph A.
Johnson
Salary Expectations
The median starting Physicist salary for a State of Florida Graduate with a Ph.D is $59,800 - $125,000.
Dorian Moore, Physics graduate student and Dr. Komalavalli Thirunavukkuarasu
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.'s)
What does a Physicist do? An Entry Physicist (Physicist I) researches subjects such as mechanics, heat, light,
sound, electricity, pneumatics, magnetism, data analytics and modeling, and radiation.
Develops laws and theories of physics for their application to specific industries
and fields. A Physicist I also describes and illustrates observations and conclusions
in mathematical terms. Additionally, a Physicist I maintains equipment and experimental
facilities, conducts instrumental analyses to determine the physical properties of
materials.
What skills are needed to be a Physicist?
Research and analysis skills
Mathematical skills
Detail-Oriented
Time-management skills
Problem-solving and experimental skills
Excellent written and verbal communication
Organization
Theory Development
Modeling and Data Analyses
Report Writing
Critical Thinking
Collaborative Research
What can I do with a Physics Degree?
Analysis: Financial, business, economic and scientific analysis are all options for
physicists and other professionals with physics degrees, as many of these roles apply
predictive modeling, statistical research and data analysis.
Mechanics and Engineering Design: Many physicists work in the engineering sector,
where they help engineers and designers develop and test machines, systems and individual
components, including aircraft, propellant systems and various mechanical parts that
support chemical and physical processes.
Medical and Health Care: Physicists can also specialize in the medical and pharmaceutical
sectors, where they may work with researchers and clinicians to develop medicines,
health care treatments or medical equipment.
Academics: Physics graduates with doctorate degrees can often find opportunities
teaching in universities and educational institutions.
IT and Computer Science: A physics degree can also prepare you for a role in technology,
where you can pursue careers in fields like quantum computing, artificial intelligence,
or machine learning.
Research and Development: Physics graduates can also work in research and development
across many industries, including astronomical and planetary science, pharmaceuticals,
energy and natural resources and technology.
Dorian Moore, Physics graduate student
Thinking of Studying Physics?
Do you have an insatiable curiosity about how the universe works? Studying physics
is the best way to satisfy this curiosity and to prepare for the challenges of life
in the future. Physics is the study of matter and energy and its interactions and
describes the fundamental nature of our existence. It is the most basic of sciences
and the foundation of many aspects of our modern civilization. Most modern technology,
such as micro- and nano-electronics, lasers, solar panels, nuclear power plants as
well as medical devices were at one time research tools of, or examples of some fundamental
principles discovered and explored by physicists. Studying physics is a great preparation
for any endeavor you may desire to undertake!
Contact Us
CST Department of Physics
Florida A&M University
1530 S. Martin Luther King Blvd | Jones Hall 111
Tallahassee, Florida 32307
