World of Astrophysics: Explore Career Options

Astrophysics, the study of the physical properties of stars and galaxies, is a rapidly growing field with many mysteries that remain to be solved.

With a strong foundation in physics and mathematics, students can embark on a successful career in this exciting field.

From Kerala to James Web Telescope!

One such example is Dr. Jessy James, a Keralite astrophysicist who was awarded a scholarship from NASA to use the James Webb Mission telescope in 2022. This was a proud moment for India as it was the first time an Indian scientist received support from NASA for further research.

Dr. Jessy James obtained her PhD in Astrophysics from the Aryabhatta Research Institute in Nainital and went on to pursue a doctoral fellowship in astronomy and astrophysics at Beijing University, China.

This is just one example of the many opportunities available for students interested in pursuing a career in astrophysics and astronomy.

Courses and Institutes

For students who wish to study astrophysics and astronomy, there are many options available in India and abroad.

After completing Plus Two, students can choose to study BSc Physics and then go on to pursue an MSc in National Institutes or IITs, or even an integrated PhD in some institutes.

Top Institutions in India

Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) and National Institute of Science Education and Research(NISER) campuses offer BS-MS programs with the option for PhD in India or abroad.

NISER in Bhubaneshwar is an excellent center for integrated MSc and research.

The University of Mumbai - Department of Atomic Energy offers 5 year Integrated MSc in Physics.

The School of Pure and Applied Physics of MG University, Kottayam, Kerala offers MSc in Physics with Astrophysics as an Elective subject.

In India, other top centers for astrophysics and astronomy include:

• National Physical Laboratory, New Delhi
• Inter University of Astronomy and Astrophysics, Pune
• Osmania University, Hyderabad
• Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bangalore
• Raman Research Institute, Bangalore
• Harish Chandra Research Institute, Allahabad

Institutions abroad

For students interested in studying abroad, top universities include:

• Harvard University
• Stanford University
• Cambridge University
• Oxford University
• University of California
• Berkeley University
• Princeton University
• Yale University
• Columbia University
• National University of Singapore

Conclusion

If you love physics and math, and you want to solve mysteries of the stars, astrophysics is definitely for you!

To know more about what courses to study and how to go about admissions, please contact us. We would be thrilled to send your career into orbit!