Chances in applying for a PhD in Physics (DFT)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges and considerations of applying for a PhD in physics, specifically in the context of Density Functional Theory (DFT). Participants explore the implications of lacking publications and references, as well as the variability of application requirements across different institutions.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about their lack of publications and references, questioning their chances of being accepted into a PhD program.
  • Another participant suggests that having a master's degree and research experience should be sufficient for most PhD applications, indicating that publication is not a strict requirement.
  • A participant notes that in their country, having published articles is often seen as essential for PhD applications, highlighting regional differences in expectations.
  • There is a query about the selection criteria for applicants, with an implication that the reputation of the applicant's university may influence their chances.
  • One participant mentions their intention to apply to IMEC but acknowledges the need to gather necessary materials, including passing the GRE and obtaining references.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity of publications for PhD applications, with some believing it is not a critical factor while others emphasize its importance, particularly in certain regions. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific selection criteria used by universities.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference varying standards for PhD applications based on geographical location and institutional expectations, indicating that assumptions about requirements may not be universally applicable.

QuantumReg
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Hi All!

I was wondering what are my chances in applying for a PhD in physics...
I have a master's degree, I was involved in some computational stuff in Density Functional Theory, I also graduated in this field. My problem is, that I have not been some eager-beaver guy with my studies, therefore I have no articles with my name on them, no references...
How can a guy like me apply for some PhD in physics? As far as I know, I have no chance, for example, to write an article, if I am not a student of a university, and I have almost no chance to apply for a PhD without some references, even I would be some genious... I looked after some opportunities at some universities tho. They don't say anything about what references do I need to succeed with my application, but only two things :
- GRE General English exam has to be passed,
- At least two references have to be presented from some of my professors.
These two things I can deal with...

Is there a place, where it is enough?

Please cheer me up... :smile:
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Getting published before graduate school is very difficult to do, and most students applying for a PhD program probably have not been published in a peer-reviewed journal. The fact that you have your masters and (I assume) a significant amount of research experience makes me think you should be fine. I doubt any school will discount your application on the sole basis of having never been published.
 
Thanks t!m!

It's just good to hear things go different from place to place. In my country you have almost no chance to apply for a PhD without any published articles.
Anyway... about what "properties" are the applicants selected then? No university can just say it would give a position for all the students who have just applied for one... Does it matter where one comes from?
(Guess it does, but that's not good for me, I think.)
 
But didn't you already ask about this in the "How to continue my studies" thread ? Have you already tried applying to IMEC ?

Marlon
 
Hey marlon!

Good to "see" you again! :)

I haven't tried applying to IMEC yet, because some stuff have to be collected first. I have to pass the GRE general, get some references...
I already have written some letters, tho.
I'm just curious about my opportunities. IMEC looks fine, PhD research areas are more then fine, but the fact is, that I come from a somewhat nonename university from a little country. I think that does matter and it shortens my chances, so I decided to look around a bit.
 

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