Astronomer

An astronomer studies the universe, stars and planets using maths and physics.
Astronomy is a small field, with about 6000 jobs in North America.

Tasks

• Developing and testing scientific theories relating to outer space
• Gathering and analysing data obtained from spacecraft and expeditions
• Writing research proposals
• Writing scientific papers and presenting findings

Observational astronomers (those working in academia) spend 10 to 30 nights a year observing and collecting data and the rest of the time analysing it.

Education

To be able to work in a research position, you need to have a Ph.D. in astronomy, which means that starting from high school (or secondary school), you need to have good grades in maths and sciences so that you can continue with a scientific course in college (or CEGEP) and then a bachelor and master’s degree in astronomy.

Salary

Average salary in the U.S.A. in 2015, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: $104 100

Connected Jobs

Astronomers can work in planetariums and museums, in the aerospace sector, or as science journalists.

Astrophysicist

Astrophysicist apply the laws of physics to explain the birth, life and death of stars, planets and other cosmic objects in the universe.

Tasks

• Observing the radiation emitted by astral objects and deducing ways to extract information from it
• Gathering and analyzing data
• Deducing the properties and nature of various phenomena like black holes
• Developing and testing scientific theories relating to outer space

Education

This job requires a Ph.D. in astrophysics, which means that astrophysicists must have a strong grasp on mathematics, classical physics, quantum mechanics and optical physics. As with most of these jobs, high school or secondary school students should have good grades in maths and sciences to move towards a science degree in college or CEGEP.

Salary

Average salary in the U.S.A. in 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: $114 870

Connected Jobs

Astrophysicists can also work for private organization doing various research.

Astrochemist

Astrochemists use chemistry, planetary science, and astronomy to understand celestial bodies.

Tasks

• Performing studies to generate data to interpret and explain astronomical observations
• Testing theories about the formation or evolution of molecules in astrophysical environments
• Gather data by using telescopes, satellites and space vehicles
• Studying the chemical processes by which planets may have gained their current form
• Examining the chemical composition of celestial bodies
• Observe the way molecules act outside of Earth’s atmosphere

Education

Any research position requires a Ph.D. in chemistry and a solid understanding of astronomical data collection. Chemists with bachelor’s or master’s degrees can be support staff for astrochemical researchers. They can maintain instruments and other equipment.

Salary

Average salary in the U.S.A. in 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: $114 870

Connected Jobs

Astrochemists can also work for private organization doing various research.

Planetary Geologist

Planetary geologists analyze the physical makeups of planets and satellites to find clues about their evolution.

Tasks

• Mapping out the topography of a planet
• Extrapolate information from samples
• Operate robotic exploration missions
• Conduct computer analysis and lab-based research
• Compare the geology on Earth to that of other planets

Education

Jobs in geology are available with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, but higher paying jobs on advanced research or teaching require a Ph.D. in planetary geology.

Salary

Average salary in the U.S.A. in 2011: $97 700

Connected Jobs

Planetary geologists can also work for private organization doing various research.

Radio Astronomer

Radio astronomers collect and analyze radio waves originating in space.

Tasks

• Developing scientific theories to explain various phenomenon
• Planning and conducting experimentations
• Analyzing data related to celestial bodies
• Designing new scientific equipment like lasers and telescopes
• Developing computer software to make analysis easier
• Presenting their findings in papers or at conferences

Education

As most jobs in research, it necessitates a Ph.D. in physics, astronomy or a related field. They also need a Ph.D. for management positions in that field.

Salary

Average salary in the U.S.A. in 2015, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: $104 100

Connected Jobs

Radio astronomers can work for defense contractors and in planetariums conducting tours or assisting other astronomers (this is available to radio astronomers with bachelor’s or master’s degrees).