Is Programming Experience Necessary for a PhD in Theoretical Particle Physics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the necessity of programming experience for pursuing a PhD in theoretical particle physics, particularly in relation to numerical algorithms and Monte Carlo simulations. Participants share their experiences and insights regarding the relevance of programming skills in theoretical high-energy physics (HEP) versus experimental HEP.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about their lack of programming experience in physical calculations, despite having knowledge of Java and basic C++.
  • Another participant notes that theoretical HEP is generally less programming-intensive than experimental HEP, but suggests that programming knowledge is still important depending on the specific area of interest.
  • A participant shares their experience of needing to relearn C++ for a research project involving Monte Carlo simulations, implying that similar challenges may arise during a PhD.
  • One participant mentions successfully obtaining a position with similar experience, advising the original poster to read up on relevant programming topics and suggesting that they could numerically solve some of their master's problems as practice.
  • There is a recommendation for a specific book on numerical methods in Java, indicating that familiarity with programming can be beneficial, though the participant does not currently need to apply these skills professionally.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether programming experience is strictly necessary for starting a PhD in theoretical particle physics, with varying opinions on the importance of programming skills and the potential for acquiring them during the PhD.

Contextual Notes

Some participants highlight the differences in programming requirements between theoretical and experimental HEP, suggesting that the necessity of programming skills may depend on the specific focus within the field.

parton
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Hi!

I'd like to do a PhD in theoretical particle physics, but I have the following problem. I found an advertisement, where I should work on numerical algorithms for the calculation of
some certain integrals. Furthermore, I should work on Monte Carlo simulations.

During my master thesis I worked on analytic computations and I was never really confronted with "programming tasks" during my studies.

I have good knowledge of Java and I know the basics of C++, which I acquired during my school time and I already used them in different projects. But there, I was confronted with the integration of
sql-databases, game development etc., but never with physical calculations.

Now I just like to know if such knowledge and practical experience with physical problems is necessary to start a PhD or if I can acquire this skills during the PhD. What do you know about that? Was anyone already in a similar situation?

I would be very glad if someone could help me. Thanks!
 
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Theoretical HEP is less programming-intensive than Experimental HEP, but you're probably still going to need to know how to do it. Depends on what exactly you're looking to get into.
 
for my undergrad research project that involved MC simulations, I had to relearn a lot of stuff I forgot from my c++ class I had taken 2 years ago. I'd imagine its similar for the phD
 
I had no problem getting a post like you describe with about the same kind of experience that you describe. The one difference was that it was in a "non-sexy" area - magnetohydrodynamics rather than particle physics. You don't want to go in blind, try reading up on some of this stuff. I keep on meaning to read "Object-Oriented Implementation of Numerical Methods: An Introduction with Java & Smalltalk: An Introduction with Java and Smalltalk (The Morgan Kaufmann Series in Software Engineering and Programming) by Didier H. Besset", but I don't have to do this stuff for a living anymore :) As it's Java-based then you may be able to develop 'something' quickly, maybe before interview. Can you solve some of your MSc problems numerically? (Also - Smalltalk really rocks. It's a nice language to have on your CV, the "object cognoscenti" will rate you for knowing about it...)
 

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