British Science Week

Science Pathways That Can Lead You to a Career in Formula 1

Published

10 MAR 2026

Est. reading time

3 min

At Atlassian Williams F1 Team, science powers everything we do, from composite design to software, simulation and strategy.

Every day, hundreds of engineers, designers, and aerodynamicists work together to push the limits of performance – seeing how they can use science to find those crucial milliseconds on track.

But how does what they do link with what you learn in the classroom? This British Science Week, we’re taking a closer look at how your afternoon Biology class could ladder up to a career in Formula 1.

The Science Behind Speed

Physics is at the heart of every Formula 1 car. If forces, motion and energy interest you, then you could explore careers like:

Aerodynamics - Applying fluid dynamics to shape wings and bodywork

Vehicle Dynamics Engineer - understanding how the car behaves on track

Physics is essential for anyone who wants to understand why an F1 car performs the way it does.

Credit: The Goodwood Group

Creating the Building Blocks of F1

Chemistry plays a huge role in the design and construction of our Formula 1 cars. Studying chemistry could open careers like:

Materials Engineer – analysing strength, durability and heat resistance of different materials on the car

Composite Specialist – working with carbon fibre structures

Formula 1 depends on materials that are lighter, stronger and smarter, and chemistry makes that possible.

Enhancing Driver Performance

Biology is vital in motorsport and can make the difference between a good driver and a great driver. Roles which use biology skills include:

Sports Scientist – improving driver reaction times and endurance

Performance Coach – using human physiology to support race preparation

Nutritionist – ensuring drivers stay healthy and fuelled for competition

Human science keeps our drivers, and our race team, performing at their peak.

Powering Performance Through Technology

Computer science plays a key role in how we design, test and run our Formula 1 cars. If you’re interested in coding, problem-solving and technology, you could explore careers such as:

Software Engineer – developing the tools our engineers use every day

Simulation Developer – building virtual models of the car and race scenarios

Systems Engineer – helping program the electronics that keep the car running

Computer science helps Williams make faster, smarter decisions on and off the track.

Explore Science Careers Firsthand at Williams

Through our free STEM Experience Days at Grove, students can find out more about what these science pathways look like – and how school lessons could shape their future careers.

“I believe that my trip to Williams opened doors, and endless possibilities and careers in the field of science.” – Year 8 student

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