Workers in this unit group perform auxiliary technical tasks, normally under the direction and supervision of physical scientists, in connection with research in the physical sciences and the development of industrial, medical, military and other practical applications. Their functions include: preparing materials and equipment for experiments, tests and analyses; assisting with or - under supervision - performing experiments, tests and analyses in such fields as physics, chemistry, geology, geophysics, meteorology and astronomy; applying knowledge of scientific principles to suggest solutions to problems encountered; taking records, making calculations, preparing charts and graphs and writing reports.