Choosing a Postdoc: University Reputation or Supervisor Prestige?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the decision-making process for choosing a postdoctoral position, weighing the importance of university reputation against supervisor prestige. The individual has a GRE score of 880 and is considering offers from a new European university with renowned professors in string theory. The consensus indicates that working with a prestigious supervisor can significantly enhance research opportunities and publication potential, even if the university lacks a long-standing reputation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of postdoctoral application processes
  • Familiarity with GRE scoring and its impact on university admissions
  • Knowledge of string theory and its significance in theoretical physics
  • Awareness of academic networking and collaboration importance
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the impact of supervisor reputation on academic career advancement
  • Explore strategies for maximizing publication opportunities during a postdoc
  • Learn about the differences in academic cultures between US and European universities
  • Investigate networking strategies in theoretical physics, particularly in string theory
USEFUL FOR

Graduate students, aspiring postdoctoral researchers, and anyone navigating academic career choices in theoretical physics.

Go for famous university name or famous supervisor?

  • University

    Votes: 1 50.0%

  • Supervisor

    Votes: 1 50.0%
  • Total voters
    2
  • Poll closed .
llorgos
Messages
18
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0
Hello,

I am facing a difficult dilemma. I am between taking the GRE exams and go study in USA and at the same time I am holding an offer in studying in Europe at a relatively new university but with two very famous and kind professors.

On one hand, holding a master in theoretical physics, and after having taken various practice tests I score around 880 in GRE. This does not guarantee enrollment in a good university or even working with such a famous and nice supervisor nor working in the specific field of interest.

On the other hand I have already been doing research the past 1+ year and going to work with these two guys would set me in a publication course immediately. Furthermore these guys are very very famous in the field (string theory) with collaborations with also very very famous people. They are also very helpful and kind and work exactly in what I am interested on working. Furthermore this place is close to home.

My question is for Postdoc what matters most? Famous University or Famous Supervisor?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
(C) famous applicant
 
I guess there are not too many of us being famous enough ;)
 

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