AIP Research Updates
July 2026

More US Trained Physics PhDs are Leaving the US

AUG 04, 2026


The most recent data show a record increase in proportion of physics PhD recipients leaving the US.

Physics Bachelor’s Degree Recipients : Recent Trends, Educational Characteristics, and Influences

AUG 03, 2026


After four years of decline, the number of physics bachelor’s degrees awarded increased in the latest academic year.
Two sides of the same story
The two reports featured in this issue tell different parts of the same story. One points to encouraging signs that the recent decline in physics bachelor’s degrees may be leveling off, while the other highlights the growing number of newly trained physics PhDs choosing careers outside the United States. It may feel, in some ways, like both the best of times and the most challenging of times for the physics community. Understanding these trends—and the forces shaping them—is essential if we are to strengthen the education and workforce pipeline. As always, we remain committed to providing the timely, objective data the community needs to make informed decisions.
If someone forwarded this message to you, you can join the list by signing up for AIP Research Updates.

Support Our Work

This message is sent to you because you signed up for one of our newsletters. To manage your AIP email preferences and newsletter subscriptions ( add or remove ), please click here. Or to automatically unsubscribe from all AIP emails, click here.

As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, AIP is a federation that advances the success of our Member Societies and an institute that engages in research and analysis to empower positive change in the physical sciences. The mission of AIP (American Institute of Physics) is to advance, promote, and serve the physical sciences for the benefit of humanity.

© 2026 American Institute of Physics. AIP, 1 Physics Ellipse, College Park, MD 20740-3841
301.209.3100 - newsletters@aipcomm.org