Is Freelance Computational Physics Consulting Realistic?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the feasibility of pursuing a freelance career in computational physics consulting, particularly in the field of computational material science. Participants explore the challenges and considerations involved in transitioning from academia to private sector consulting, including potential pathways and funding opportunities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Gabriele expresses interest in becoming a freelance computational physics consultant, questioning the realism of this career path given the limited number of companies in the field.
  • One participant suggests that prior experience in government or private industry is crucial for establishing a consulting career, emphasizing the importance of connections.
  • Another participant agrees, noting the prevalence of familiar names in SBIR applications and suggesting that while there is a small industry for SBIR funding, it may be a challenging way to earn a living.
  • A different viewpoint introduces the idea that Gabriele's proposal resembles a post-doctoral position, and mentions potential advantages for minorities in securing SBIR funding.
  • One participant highlights the importance of specifying geographic location, indicating that the SBIR funding routes may not be applicable if Gabriele is not based in the US.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the challenges of entering the consulting field without prior industry experience and connections. However, there are differing views on the applicability of SBIR funding and the importance of geographic context, indicating unresolved aspects of the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note limitations regarding the applicability of certain funding routes based on geographic location and the need for specific information about Gabriele's situation, which remains unclear.

g_mogni
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Hello,

I have a PhD in computational material science and experience using such computational techniques as Density Functional Theory and classical Molecular Dynamics. I would like to pursue a career in the private sector rather than in academia, however I found out the hard way that the companies that work in computational material science are few and tend to be very small. My question therefore is: do you think it's a realistic plan to try and become a freelance computational physics "consultant" and ask companies or universities to assign me individual projects on various material science topics which are relevant to my expertise? Do you know of other people who have tried a similar career path?

Thanks,

Gabriele
 
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yes, but only after working either for the government or private industry for many years. without connections, the consulting business is kinda slim. you might be better off forming a company and going after SBIR (small business innovative research) money
 
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I review a lot of SBIR applications as part of my work and I agree 100% with Dr. Transport. I keep seeing the same names and small firms popping up. There is obviously a small SBIR industry out there that primarily exists to do small research projects. Seems to me a tough way to make a living, though.
 
What the OP originally threw out is called a post-doc.

to add on to my original statement, if your a minority, you'll get a leg up in SBIR funding, if not get a significant other to form a corporation or LLC then apply. It isn't easy and if I remember correctly, you're limited in how many times you can get that type of contract work.
 
This is why, if you don't specify where you are in the world, you'll get a series of responses that are completely useless to you. The SBIR routes that were mentioned appear to not be applicable to you since my guess is that you are not in the US and is not a US permanent resident/citizen.

We have people from all over the world in this forum. You need to be quite clear and quite specific on your situation.

Zz.
 
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