What Academic Path Leads to a Career in Quantum Mechanics?

[Quantum3700]

Over the past few weeks I have been attempting to research opportunities for specializing in quantum mechanics/quantum field theory or a related field such as particle physics. I was wondering what the best academic path would be for this field of study and what my chances are of finding a specialization involving quantum mechanics. If not, I would feel grateful if you also mentioned any related possible career choices.

Thank you!

 

[UltrafastPED]

How about quantum computers - ideal for experimentalists and theoreticians!

 

[nil1996]

welcome to forum
Accelerator physics is a good one.

 

[lasymphonie]

Much of modern physics research uses quantum mechanics! So you have plenty of options.

 

[Physics_UG]

welcome to forum
Accelerator physics is a good one.

actually, accelerator physics uses very little quantum mechanics...mostly classical EM and mechanics.

 

[AxiomOfChoice]

As a soon-to-be math Ph.D. who's been working in non-relativistic mathematical quantum scattering theory, the dearth of responses to this question is a little disheartening What are we to do if we don't go into academia? What industries would be looking for someone with our skills? Are there any?

 

[jasonRF]

As a soon-to-be math Ph.D. who's been working in non-relativistic mathematical quantum scattering theory, the dearth of responses to this question is a little disheartening What are we to do if we don't go into academia? What industries would be looking for someone with our skills? Are there any?

By definition a lot of academic research is ... academic. I am an electrical engineering PhD and I don't work in my graduate specialization at all either, so it isn't just mathematicians and physicists. You are learning how to attack hard problems, be self-guided and independent, as well as getting a deep understanding of some branch(es) of math (and in your case, some physics).

jason

 

[ParticleGrl]

As a soon-to-be math Ph.D. who's been working in non-relativistic mathematical quantum scattering theory, the dearth of responses to this question is a little disheartening What are we to do if we don't go into academia? What industries would be looking for someone with our skills? Are there any?

In my experience, the places looking for your skills are mostly insurance and finance companies (like most math and physics phds). Its a tough sell to engineering companies.

 

[Integral]

Quantum3700, .
Please let us know your level of school.

If as I expect you are a high school student then the best thing you can do to prepare for a future in science or engineering is to become proficient in math. Take every class you can and strive to learn.

I am locking this. When you return, hit the report button to have a mod re-open the thread.