Physics PhD Student from Africa Seeking Advice

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the considerations and implications of pursuing a second PhD in physics after completing an initial PhD in Africa. Participants explore the feasibility, potential alternatives, and personal experiences related to academic advancement in different regions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses concern about the value of obtaining a second PhD in physics and questions whether it is permissible under U.S. law.
  • Another suggests that pursuing a post-doc might be more beneficial than obtaining a second PhD.
  • A participant shares their dissatisfaction with their current PhD experience, citing limited research opportunities in Africa and a low probability of securing a post-doc position due to their background.
  • One participant mentions the existence of individuals, like Malcolm Ludvigsen, who have successfully obtained multiple PhDs, implying that it is possible to do so.
  • Another participant notes that admission policies may vary by institution, suggesting that many programs might not accept applicants who already hold a PhD.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the appropriateness or feasibility of pursuing a second PhD. There are competing views regarding the value of a second PhD versus a post-doc, as well as differing opinions on institutional policies regarding admissions for individuals with existing PhDs.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the implications of U.S. law on pursuing multiple PhDs and highlight the variability in admission policies across different institutions.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to current or prospective PhD students considering their academic paths, particularly those from regions with limited research opportunities, as well as those exploring options for further education in physics.

AnotherPhD
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Hi,
I am a physics PhD student from Africa, and about to finish my PhD within a year, also in Africa, where the science is poor.
I could have applied for the PhD programs in physics in the states but because of family reasons I had to do it here.
Since such family reasons are gone I am seriously considering applying for the physics PhD programs in the states after getting my PhD to get another PhD in physics

Is it okay to get another PhD in physics or is it forbidden by the USA law? If it is not allowed to apply for another PhD, then I might drop my current program to be able to apply for a decent program in the states then

Any suggestions and advice are welcome


Anoka
 
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Rather than doing another PhD in the same field, perhaps doing a post-doc would be of somewhat more value to you.
 
I didn't think I learned much during my PhD, 1 publication and another in the way. Taking into account the weak scientific research in Africa, The probability of getting a post doc having a PhD from here is practically 0. I care about learning well and do good quality research and that's is not available anywhere but in europe and usa and Canada. My GRE physics is 850 taken a few years ago, It could be higher by now if I take it again.
 
I'm no suggesting that you should do it or that you shouldn't do it, but it certainly is possible, as relativist and painter Malcolm Ludvigsen has two Ph.D.s.

From the blurb on the back cover of Ludvigsen's deceptively sophisticated general relativity book:

"Dr. Ludvigsen received his first Ph.D. from Newcastle University and his second from the University of Pittsburgh. His research at the University of Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland led to an Andrew Mellon Fellowship in Pittsburgh, where he worked the renowned relativist Ted Newman on problems connected with H-space and non-linear gravitons."

http://www.malcolmludvigsen.org.uk/artist.htm
 
You would have to look at specific schools. But I would say most would not admit you into their program if you already have a phd.
 

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