In Israel, as well as in most other places, the term "theoretical" in the context of job titles, descriptions, or educational purposes refers to a branch of a particular field of study or profession that focuses on developing and exploring theories, models, and concepts. It typically involves abstract reasoning, mathematical or computational modeling, and analytical thinking to understand and explain the fundamental principles, laws, and phenomena of a specific discipline.
For instance, theoretical physics involves the study of physical phenomena, laws, and principles using mathematical and theoretical frameworks, aiming to develop models and explanations for the behavior of the universe. Theoretical chemistry focuses on understanding chemical properties, reactions, and structures through mathematical and computational methods. Similarly, other fields like theoretical biology, theoretical computer science, or theoretical economics emphasize theoretical frameworks, mathematical models, and abstract concepts to analyze and interpret their respective subjects.
By using the term "theoretical" in a job title or description, it signifies that the individual or position primarily engages in research, analysis, and theoretical exploration within the given field, rather than focusing on practical applications or experimental work. These theoretical professionals often contribute to advancing knowledge, developing new theories, formulating hypotheses, and providing a deeper understanding of the subject matter.