Space & Defence
Research & Development
Postgraduate
Astrophysicist / Space Scientist
Use physics and observations to explore stars, galaxies, planets and the origins of the universe.
A day in the life
Analyse telescope or spacecraft data, run simulations, write research papers, and present findings at conferences.
Entry routes
- A-level Physics + Maths + Further Maths
- Physics or Astrophysics degree
- PhD and postdoctoral research positions
Typical salary
£28,000-£35,000 to £70,000+
Mid-career: £40,000-£55,000
Academic salaries vary; space industry and data-heavy roles can pay more.
UK employers
- Royal Observatory Edinburgh
- UK Space Agency
- RAL Space
- Universities
Worldwide employers
- NASA
- ESA
- CERN
- Space Telescope Science Institute
Useful route links
These links are good starting points for courses, apprenticeships, graduate routes and professional training. They open the official or specialist sites rather than another summary page.
UCAS course search: astrophysics
Compare degree prospectuses, entry requirements, open days and course structures.
ucas.com
UK Space Agency recruitment
Official recruitment information for the UK Space Agency.
gov.uk
UKRI studentships and research funding
Explore UK research councils and postgraduate research funding routes.
ukri.org
UCAS Physics and astronomy courses
Search UK undergraduate physics, astrophysics and related degree options.
ucas.com
Prospects: what can I do with a physics degree?
Independent overview of careers that physics graduates enter.
prospects.ac.uk
Find an apprenticeship on GOV.UK
Search current apprenticeship and degree apprenticeship vacancies in England.
gov.uk
Key skills
Explore related careers
Sources and further reading
External links open in a new tab.