Do I Need a PhD to Work in R&D for Polymers?

[mrund3rd09]

Chemical engineering topics like heat transfer, transport, separations etc. never really appealed to me. But I really like research, and I think R&D is the place for me in industry. In order to work in R&D, I need an advanced degree. But I'm currently trying to decide what's the best way to get to my destination (eg. MS or Phd).

Can I get into R&D positions I like if I have a MS and work my way up in industry? Or do I need a PhD in order to have a decent position? The thing with PhD's is that there's like a dichotomy of perspectives that splits between "PhD is a rewarding experience" and "PhD is underpaid labor and it narrows your opportunities for jobs".

advice?

 

[chill_factor]

do you have a job already lined up? i heard twofish quant say this before: don't make choices until you have a choice.