Is AMO the Right Fit for My Physics Research Career?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the dilemma faced by a physics graduate with a Master's in condensed matter physics who is considering a shift to Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics. The individual expresses concerns about the lack of creativity in condensed matter research, which primarily involves data analysis and the use of established instruments. In contrast, AMO physics offers a broader range of technical skills, including vacuum techniques, electronics, and programming. The participant is uncertain about the applicability of AMO research to industry and whether the transition is worthwhile for acquiring transferable skills.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of condensed matter physics principles
  • Familiarity with data analysis techniques in physics research
  • Basic knowledge of optics and programming
  • Awareness of vacuum techniques used in experimental physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore AMO physics research topics and current trends
  • Investigate transferable skills gained from AMO physics, such as electronics and programming
  • Research potential career paths and industry applications for AMO physicists
  • Consider enrolling in an introductory course on AMO physics to gain foundational knowledge
USEFUL FOR

Graduate students in physics, particularly those in condensed matter, researchers considering a shift to AMO physics, and individuals interested in developing transferable skills applicable to various scientific and industrial fields.

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I got into a top PHD institution for condensed matter physics. I already have a MS in physics doing condensed matter. Now after a few years of actual research, I'm not sure if condensed matter is for me anymore. I feel like a lot of condensed matter physics right now is just pressing a button on an instrument then going through a lot of data analysis. The creative part doesn't seem to be actually designing the experiment since you are using known instruments.

I visited a lower ranked school and was amazed by some AMO professors who wanted to talk to me, which I didn't expect. I was very interested in the amount of technical skills that I get to learn and apply, ranging from vacuum techniques to electronics to programming. However, I'm not sure if I like the research in AMO or not, since I have little experience in it. I am also not sure about careers in AMO, since the actual science of AMO isn't as industrially applicable.

What should I do?
 
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It would be great if there were any suggestions. I have a decision to make coming up in a week, and don't know what is right. I have significant experience in condensed matter, but don't think the type of research I want to do will allow me to learn too many transferable skills. I had experience in optics and programming, but not serious AMO physics, and never took a serious course on it beyond molecular spectroscopy. However I'm interested in the transferable skills.

Is it worth learning an entirely new area of physics for the transferable skills?
 

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