Physics How easy/common is it to move from one branch of physics research to another?

AI Thread Summary
A PhD student in high energy particle physics is exploring career options post-graduation, particularly the feasibility of transitioning to other areas of physics beyond HEP. The student expresses interest in various physics fields and desires the flexibility to work in locations where HEP is not prevalent. The discussion raises questions about the potential for physicists to shift their career focus, including whether additional qualifications like another master's or PhD are necessary, or if they can demonstrate their competency through job applications. The conversation also touches on the possibility of moving into fields such as particle astrophysics, nuclear physics, or condensed matter physics. Additionally, the student reflects on a previous interest in fusion physics and inquires about the challenges of transitioning from HEP to fusion research.
Doofy
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I'm currently a phd student and am doing high energy particle physics. I am unsure about what I will do when I graduate, but I suspect I willl apply for postdoc positions. What I'm wondering is, let's say I do decide to stay in physics. Am I completely limited to a career in HEP physics, or could other options be open to me?

It's not that I don't like HEP physics, but there are other areas that I quite like, and I'd like the option to work in certain places in the world where HEP physics is not being done but other types of physics are.

If the answer is no, then what can a PhD-holding physicist do if he wishes to change his career path? How can they prove they have the relevant knowledge to findemployment in a different branch of physics? Do they have to do another masters or even another PhD? Or can they apply to jobs and demonstrate their competency in other ways?
 
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What do you mean by "another branch"? Particle astro? Nuclear? Or condensed matter?
 
Vanadium 50 said:
What do you mean by "another branch"? Particle astro? Nuclear? Or condensed matter?

well, when I was applying for PhD's, fusion appealed to me, but I never got any offers for that. Is it much of a leap for a HEP physicist to get into fusion?
 

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