The discussion revolves around the decision-making process for an undergraduate materials engineering student contemplating whether to pursue a PhD in Condensed Matter Physics (CMP) or delve deeper into Materials Science and Engineering (MSE). The conversation explores the relevance of semiconductors in both fields and the implications of choosing one path over the other.
Participants do not reach a consensus on the best path forward for the student. There are competing views regarding the relevance of semiconductors in CMP versus MSE, and the appropriateness of the comparison being made between the two fields.
The discussion reflects differing opinions on the significance of program orientation (metallurgy vs. semiconductor focus) and the implications of pursuing a degree in physics versus engineering. There is also an acknowledgment of the broader scope of CMP compared to semiconductor physics.
Joaco said:Hi, I'm an undergrad materials engineering student. I am thinking of studying all the way to a PhD as I'm interested on working in research. Right now I work with Semiconductors and I like the field a lot. However, considering what I'm studying, I want to know if it's a good Idea to look for a PhD. on CM Physucs or go deeper on MSE?. I'll be thankful to read your opinion.
I have been looking thru schools, and found that some have MSE research programs with a metallurgy orientation, and when I look for CMP the relevance of semiconductors is higher. I know I will do research in both areas but I understand approach is different, and I want to know how relevant is that on selecting the subject.ZapperZ said:You have not given any compelling reason to switch to condensed matter physics other than the statement "... considering what I'm studying...", and I'm not even sure what that means. Semiconductors are as relevant in Material Science as it is in CMP. It is not a sufficient reason to switch.
Similarly, you WILL do research, and a lot of it, if you go on to do your PhD in Material Science. So that also isn't a valid reason to switch.
If you wish to try again and list out why you are considering such a switch, I'd like to see it.
Zz.
Joaco said:I have been looking thru schools, and found that some have MSE research programs with a metallurgy orientation, and when I look for CMP the relevance of semiconductors is higher. I know I will do research in both areas but I understand approach is different, and I want to know how relevant is that on selecting the subject.
You are not doing a correct A-B comparison. You are comparing the field of materials science and engineering (MSE) with condensed matter physics (CMP), which is a subfield of physics. If we're talking about US grad schools, typically (as always, there may be outliers lurking somewhere), you will apply for a PhD program in MSE or a PhD program in physics. Yes, some MSE programs are stronger in traditional metallurgy than semiconductor materials. But, so too, some physics programs are stronger in high-energy physics than semiconductor physics. So what? You pick MSE depts with strong programs in semiconductor materials or physics depts with strong programs in semiconductor physics [note that CMP has a much broader scope than semiconductor physics]. As a follow-up to Zz's post #4, have you looked at MSE PhD programs at UIUC, MIT, Cornell, Northwestern, and U of Mich Ann Arbor (just to name a few that I'm familiar with)?Joaco said:I have been looking thru schools, and found that some have MSE research programs with a metallurgy orientation, and when I look for CMP the relevance of semiconductors is higher. I know I will do research in both areas but I understand approach is different, and I want to know how relevant is that on selecting the subject.