The Big Bang Theory is easily one of the most intelligent sitcoms in recent years, and not just because of all the clever jokes. The main characters themselves all work at Caltech (California Institute of Technology) in a myriad of complex sounding jobs. So, what is it each character actually does? And what do you need to study to become just like one of them?
Sheldon Cooper
Sheldon is a senior theoretical particle physicist, which is someone who studies the way in which energy and matter interact. Other famous theoretical particle physicists include Richard Feynman, Steven Weinberg, and Lisa Randall. If you want to become just like Sheldon Cooper, then you’ll want to Major in physics, get yourself some research experience, then earn a Ph.D. Phew!
Leonard Hofstadter
If you fancy something a bit more weird and wonderful, you should probably follow in Leonard’s footsteps instead. He’s an experimental physicist, which basically means he studies physical phenomena and experiments. It’s certainly a bit more kooky than being a theoretical particle physicist. If you want to get into this industry, then it’s best to Major in a physics or mathematics-related subject. You’ll then have to work your way up to earn a Ph.D.
Howard Wolowitz
Wolowitz is the only one out of the male main characters that doesn’t have a doctorate! He’s an Aerospace Engineer who has worked his way up throughout the seasons. These are the guys (and girls) who design and build both aircraft and spacecraft, so it’s a pretty fun job. You’ll need at least a Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering to progress like Howard, and you may even need a professional license too. Then you can be just like Howard Wolowitz if you want!
Rajesh Koothrappali
Rajesh is an astrophysicist at Caltech, which basically means he looks at both the physics and chemistry of stars, planets, galaxies, and everything else in the universe. You don’t need a doctorate to become an astrophysicist, however, Raj does have one, because he’s one of the best! As long as it doesn’t involve talking to women, he’s got it. You can become an astrophysicist with just a Bachelor’s degree and plenty of research experience.
Amy Farrah Fowler
Amy Farrah Fowler is an interesting character because she is actually a neuroscientist – very different from anything the boys do. Her research focus is on addiction in primates and invertebrates, and she has a Ph.D. in neurobiology, which is what you’d need if you wanted to follow in her footsteps. What is even more interesting is that Mayim Bialik, who plays Amy, actually has a Ph.D. in neuroscience in real life.
Want to become a scientist just like one of the main characters in The Big Bang Theory? Well, all you need to do is pick what kind of science you want to study, and then follow your dreams. We can see ourselves as neurobiologists, personally.
