Learn What You Need to Know for Cosmology Research

[arierreF]

Hello,

I don't know if this is the right place to post this topic, I could not figure out the right one.
I have recently finished my Masters in Condensed Matter. Now I want to follow a PhD where I can work/research on the dynamics of the Universe especially on dark energy, modified gravity models, gravitation and black holes.

For what I understood, there are many pre requisites that I need before diving in such subjects.
I think the main ones are General Relativity and Quantum Field theory. But those topics also have pre requisites. Like differential geometry and classical field theory.

I have already studied tensor calculus (not so applied to physics) and second quantization.
Can you give a guide or list of what topics should I study before going to cosmology?

Thank you.

 

[kimbyd]

One of the difficulties here is that it really depends upon the school you're studying at. At higher levels, there's very little standardization, so it's hard to say in detail.

My thinking is that you shouldn't need to take a separate classical field theory or differential geometry class before starting in on GR and QFT. This was the case when I was studying for my Ph.D.. But your school may be different.

I think you should plan for diving right into GR and QFT, but confirm with the professors at your school just in case they really think another prerequisite is important.

Edit: And yes, GR and QFT are the big ones that you should study straight away. If a general cosmology class is offered, that would also be good to take.

 

[arierreF]

Ok, I think I will follow your suggestion. I will try to find introductory books of GR and QFT.

If I find them very difficult, then I will study easier topic.

Thank you.