Metrics on fields in physics with funding/activity?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on identifying metrics that indicate funding and activity levels in various physics fields, particularly in Europe. The user expresses interest in Quantum Information and Quantum Computing, questioning whether these areas are viable for specialization. Key considerations include funding per researcher and growth trends over time, emphasizing that personal interest and contribution to the field are crucial for career success rather than merely following current trends.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Quantum Information and Quantum Computing concepts
  • Familiarity with funding metrics in research fields
  • Knowledge of regional economic factors affecting research funding
  • Awareness of trends in theoretical physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research funding agencies and their focus areas in Quantum Computing
  • Analyze growth trends in Quantum Information research over the past decade
  • Investigate regional funding differences in physics across Europe
  • Explore career paths and opportunities in theoretical physics fields
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in physics, particularly those considering specialization in Quantum Information or Quantum Computing, as well as professionals seeking to understand funding dynamics in theoretical physics.

YellowBiro
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Are there any metrics that show which areas in physics have lots of funding and activity at this present moment? Of course it would vary by location as well. I'm mainly interested in Europe.

I am basically trying to figure out if Quantum Information/Quantum Computing is a good field to specialise in. Also want to see if there are other theoretical physics fields which are also "trending".
 
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The absolute amount of money is not the right question. More total money in a field simply means more researchers but not better career chances.
Funding per researcher? Variations will mainly come from other costs (experiments, travel, ...) or the regional distribution: Incomes are higher in San Francisco than in the middle of nowhere, Montana - but living costs are higher as well.
Growth over time? This is getting more interesting, but also often hard to predict. You want future growth - but that means anticipating what will be interesting in the future before funding agencies do so. What is trending now doesn't have to be trending in a few years when it might be relevant for you. Do you expect to make better decisions than funding agencies?
YellowBiro said:
I am basically trying to figure out if Quantum Information/Quantum Computing is a good field to specialise in.
If and only if you are interested in it.
The main thing you can influence is your performance in the field. The best career chances in a field are useless if you can't be bothered contributing a lot to it. Better become the leading expert in whatever you are interested in.
 
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