Admissions Do I have a chance at doing a physics Ph.D. in quantum ML?

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The discussion centers around the challenges of transitioning into Quantum Machine Learning (QML) after graduating with a low GPA in Physics and Applied Math, despite having strong credentials in Electrical Engineering and a Master's in Artificial Intelligence. The individual expresses concern about their past academic performance and lack of recent physics experience, feeling it may hinder their chances of entering a competitive field with limited educational opportunities. However, it is suggested that QML programs are often housed within computer science departments, which may favor their engineering background. The advice given emphasizes the importance of applying to programs regardless of perceived disadvantages, as the application process involves minimal risk and could lead to valuable opportunities.
Gandor481
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I graduated with Physics and Applied math degrees ~4 years ago with a really low gpa ~2.7 with research experience on CMS.

I then completed a B.S. in Electrical Engineering last year with a 3.7 and a MS in Artificial Intelligence with a 4.0.

Over the past 4 years I've been working as a machine learning engineer making ~200k. I really want to get into Quantum Machine Learning but I feel like my weak physics gpa and the fact that I haven't really done physics for a few years puts me at a severe disadvantage. There also aren't too many schools doing quantum ML and the ones that are tend to be very competitive making that 2.7 feel like an really tough barrier to the field. Do I have a chance or should I just stay in industry.

Thanks for the advice.
 
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It’s more likely that Quantum ML would be hosted by a computer science department rather than the physics department at any university. Your credentials in that case would work in your favor.

Heres one such course at MIT

https://qmlsys.mit.edu/

and some stuff on wikipedia

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quantum_machine_learning

and other resources

https://towardsdatascience.com/unde...sing-tensorflow-quantum-examples-5a59133e8930



and some old info on the Univ of Waterloo

https://www.quora.com/Where-can-you-get-a-PhD-in-quantum-machine-learning
 
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Gandor481 said:
Do I have a chance or should I just stay in industry.
In your scenario, you have nothing to lose other than the application fees and the time spent preparing the applications. So why not simply apply and see what responses you get? If you do get admitted, then the harder choice is deciding whether to do a PhD program or just stay in industry.
 
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Given the current funding situation, you should contact potential departments or research groups before you apply and pay any application fees. Many programs are not taking new graduate students at all this cycle because of funding uncertainty, unless a specific advisor can show they already have money to support you for five years. This is what I’ve heard directly from 20–30 programs. Do not waste money applying blindly.

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