Careers paths of fundamental vs. applied physics

[Mindscrape]

I have a decision to make in my physics PhD of where to start my research between physics, applied physics, or even ECE/physics. I know that I could always switch fields part way in, but I really don't want to be set back and I want to make the right decision to start with. Anyway, as I am interested in both fields it's not a matter of interest for me, rather a matter of what options I will have when I finish my PhD. I'll be studying optics/photonics, and as I'm not really interested in academia I'd mostly be looking for work in industry after I graduate.

I hear of people being able to go from fundamental physics backgrounds into industry, but I wonder how much more limited the job opportunities really are. Of course, academia is very limited, so most PhD students do eventually make their way to industry, but what I'm not so sure about is if taking applied physics would limit any path to a national laboratory that studies more fundamental; as well as vice versa, whether fundamental physics would limit the possibilities of more applied work.

What are the general opinions on careers for fundamental physics versus applied physics?

 

[edgepflow]

There is no right answer and opinions differ. But my opinion is take the applied route.