Advice for PhD Choice in Physics - 4 Points to Consider

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around choosing a suitable research field for a PhD in physics, particularly for someone with a background in theoretical physics and cosmology. The participant is seeking advice on fields that are theoretical, have open conceptual problems, require mathematical skills, involve experimental contact, and offer good career opportunities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that every area with active research has open problems, implying that the choice of field may not be as critical as the specific problems addressed.
  • Another participant notes that all theoretical physics problems require mathematics but emphasizes the need for clarity on what is meant by "skillness in math."
  • It is mentioned that the connection to experiments depends more on the specific problem rather than the broader area of research.
  • A postdoc in theoretical physics expresses the view that theoretical positions may have fewer job opportunities compared to experimental ones, recommending applied or computational work, particularly in condensed matter physics.
  • One participant indicates a personal interest in condensed matter physics, seeking further information on it.
  • Another participant comments on the mathematical demands of condensed matter research compared to their own experience in particle astrophysics, suggesting a diversity of mathematical engagement across fields.
  • A brief mention of interest in LHC phenomenology is made, highlighting a specific area of enthusiasm among participants.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between theoretical and experimental physics regarding career opportunities, with some suggesting that theoretical fields may have fewer job prospects. There is no consensus on the best field for the original poster, as multiple perspectives on suitable areas are presented.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the specificity of mathematical skills required and the definitions of "conceptual problems." The relationship between theory and experiment is noted to be dependent on the specific research problems rather than the broader field.

trustinlust
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Hi guys,

I need an advise. I would like to start a Phd in physics, but I have not decided in which field yet. My curriculum is in theoretical physics, and my thesis was in cosmology, but I want to change the research field.
I am looking for something theoretical that:

1)Still has conceptual problems open,
2)Requires skillness in math,
3)Has an effective contact with experiments,
4)Gives good chance to find career opportunities.

What do you think could be suitable for me?
Thanks!

p.s.
Excuse me for my atrocious english!
 
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Ok I will take a stab.

1.) I think every area that has active research has open problems.
2.) Every theoretical physics problem requires math... you will have to be a little more exact with what you mean.
3.) This is much more about the exact problem you are working on then the area (in my opinion) and is strongly tied to how you approach the problem.
4.) Now this can be tough. In my opinion and experience, theory has much less opportunity than experiment for job prospects. I am a postdoc in theoretical physics, so I think I have a decent handle on what is happening in the job arena.

But if you stick with theory, I would suggest trying to do something that is more applied or computational. As far as sheer numbers of jobs, you should be looking at something in the realm of condensed matter. I think I heard a statistic that about half of all physics researchers are considered to be in the field of condensed matter. That may somewhat have to do with the broad definition of the field, but I sure see a lot of postdocs and tenure track openings with the title.

Good luck.
 
Thanks for the reply, Norman. I am looking for something interesting about condensed matter physics.

Bye
 
Most of the condensed matter people I know do way more math than I do (I do particle astrophysics). I've never had to actually do a physics problem as part of my research, but most of these guys have to do E&M or quantum calculations all the time.
 
LHC phenomenology.

I don't understand how anyone could be interested in anything else :)
 

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