Can You Transition Between Chemistry and Physics Careers?

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Pursuing a career in chemistry research while having an interest in physics raises several questions about educational pathways. A physics undergraduate degree can lead to a transition into chemistry, and a Ph.D. in quantum chemistry can facilitate research opportunities in physics. Students with a background in chemical engineering can also move into graduate programs in both chemistry and physics. The overlap between physical chemistry and physics makes it a suitable field for those interested in both disciplines. Additionally, a B.S. in Chemical Engineering followed by a Master's in Materials Science may enhance prospects for entering theoretical chemistry or physics graduate programs, particularly in condensed matter research.
samjiyon23
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Hi everyone! A couple of questions for you.

So, I'm thinking about pursuing a career in chemistry research BUT I also really like physics, so I'm not really sure which to choose...
-If I were to get a physics undergrad degree, could I move into chemistry?
-If I were to get a chemistry Ph.D. in, say, quantum chemistry, would I be able to do research in physics?
-Is it possible to go from a chemical engineering undergrad to a chemistry grad? How about to a physics grad?

Thanks in advance ^^
 
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Oh, one more thing. The uni I hope to go to has an option for a B.S. in ChemE and then a fifth-year Master's in Materials Science. Would this perhaps help me get into a theoretical chemistry or physics (esp. condensed matter in this case) grad school?
 
I actually know people who have done that. I think the easiest thing would be to get a physics undergraduate degree and a physics or chemistry Ph.D. My research advisor is in theoretical physical chemistry and we work with theoretical physicists in condensed matter. He did his undergrad in physics and chemistry and his Ph.D in physics I believe. A grad student I know did his undergrad in chemical engineering, is finishing his Ph.D in physical chemistry and is looking for physics postdocs.
 
samjiyon23 said:
Hi everyone! A couple of questions for you.

So, I'm thinking about pursuing a career in chemistry research BUT I also really like physics, so I'm not really sure which to choose...
-If I were to get a physics undergrad degree, could I move into chemistry?
-If I were to get a chemistry Ph.D. in, say, quantum chemistry, would I be able to do research in physics?
-Is it possible to go from a chemical engineering undergrad to a chemistry grad? How about to a physics grad?

Thanks in advance ^^

In Physical Chemistry there is a lot of overlap with Physics. If your interests are chemistry and physics, that would probably be a good match for you.

If you're considering grad school in physics, check out this thread:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=64966
 

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