Looking for interdisciplinary institutes/groups (Europe preferred)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding interdisciplinary research institutes or groups in Europe that focus on physics-related topics. Participants explore potential PhD opportunities that balance theoretical and experimental research, with a particular interest in various fields such as Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, and Informatics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks suggestions for interdisciplinary groups in Europe related to physics, expressing openness to various topics and a preference for a balance of theory and experiment.
  • Another participant questions the feasibility of pursuing an interdisciplinary PhD without a specific research topic in mind, suggesting that this approach may be challenging.
  • Several participants express willingness to engage with topics in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, and Informatics, with some openness to biology or chemistry-related research, although these areas are not their strong suits.
  • A participant shares a link to a listing of physics-related PhD openings in Europe, indicating that many interdisciplinary projects are available in the fields mentioned.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the interest in interdisciplinary research and the potential fields of study. However, there is disagreement regarding the approach of seeking interdisciplinary opportunities without a specific topic, with some expressing concerns about its viability.

Contextual Notes

Participants have varying levels of experience and comfort with different disciplines, which may influence their perspectives on interdisciplinary research opportunities. The discussion reflects a range of interests and uncertainties regarding the application process for PhD programs.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in pursuing interdisciplinary PhD research in physics and related fields, particularly those looking for opportunities in Europe.

Sangunity
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Hi everyone, first time posting here! ;)

Does anyone have good suggestions for interdisciplinary groups (preferably based in Europe), focusing on a physics topic/problem? I am considering doing a PhD, and currently, I am doing the broadest research for places. I don't mind if the research is theoretical or experimental, and my best-case scenario would be a position with a good balance of theory-experiment. Currently, the areas of physics in which I have experience (student) of doing research are Semiconductors, and Cold atoms/Condensed matter (theoretical), but I am super open to other topics. Besides my BSc in Theoretical Physics and my MSc in General Physics, I have experience with EDA chip design, informatics, and a strong math background.

DIEP is an excellent example of what I am looking for, but I was wondering if there are similar places. For example, this PhD https://www.d-iep.org/phdtopoinfo they offer is in the ballpark of what I am looking for.
 
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Besides physics and math, what other disciplines are you interested in for your PhD research?
 
I am more than willing (plus comfortable and curious) to engage with topics in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or Informatics. Potentially something connected with biology/chemistry would be fine too (in the line of devices for biology or biophysical topics), but these are not my strong suit. ;)
 
Usually the way this works is someone has a research topic in mind that crosses the boundaries between disciplines. This is different - you want to do something interdisciplinary but don;t have a strong preference as to what it is. I think this will be a hard sell, not least because its "backwards" compared to most applications.
 
Sangunity said:
I am more than willing (plus comfortable and curious) to engage with topics in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or Informatics. Potentially something connected with biology/chemistry would be fine too (in the line of devices for biology or biophysical topics), but these are not my strong suit. ;)
Here's one listing of physics-related PhD openings in Europe;

https://www.findaphd.com/phds/physics/?10M7W0&Keywords=europe

A quick glance indicates many interdisciplinary projects involving the fields you've listed..
 

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