Possible to Specialize in General Relativity?

In summary, the conversation discusses the speaker's interest in specializing in GR (General Relativity) for graduate school, despite the lack of demand for research in this area compared to other topics in physics. The speaker asks if it is feasible to specialize in GR and if there are any universities with a strong focus on this subject. They mention their university's research group on gravitational waves and a few GR theorists, suggesting that it is possible to specialize in GR at certain schools.
  • #1
Driggers
6
1
I'm about to start my senior year at university pursuing a double major in physics and electrical engineering. I decided recently that I wanted to go to graduate school for physics so I started thinking about the area I would like to specialize in. My current university does most of its research in condensed matter physics and high energy particle physics; however, GR has always fascinated me, and if I could pick one topic to be an expert in, that would definitely be it (not that other areas don't interest me). The problem is, demand for research in GR is nonexistent compared with that of the topics mentioned above. This is reflected in the fact that there are only 1 or 2 graduate courses in the subject at my university.

So my question is this: is it possible/feasible to specialize in GR? And if so, are there any particular universities where the department staffs a few physicists who specialize in it themselves? Or is teaching the basics of GR just an obligation for universities and no one really cares to study it beyond that?
 
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  • #2
At my university, there's a fairly large experimental research group working on gravitational waves, and a couple of GR theorists. I don't think it's totally impossible to specialise in GR at all, but you've just got to pick the school.
 

FAQ: Possible to Specialize in General Relativity?

1. Is it possible to specialize in general relativity as a scientist?

Yes, it is possible to specialize in general relativity as a scientist. General relativity is a branch of physics that focuses on the study of gravity and its effects on the universe. Many scientists have dedicated their careers to studying and conducting research in this field.

2. What qualifications are required to specialize in general relativity?

To specialize in general relativity, one typically needs to have a strong background in mathematics and physics. A bachelor's degree in physics or a related field is usually required, followed by a master's degree and a Ph.D. in a specialized area of general relativity.

3. What are the potential career options for someone who specializes in general relativity?

There are various career options for someone who specializes in general relativity. Some may choose to work as a researcher or professor in a university or research institution, while others may work in the private sector, such as in aerospace or engineering companies. Some may also pursue careers in data analysis or computational modeling.

4. What are some current research areas in general relativity?

Some current research areas in general relativity include gravitational waves, black holes, cosmology, and the search for a unified theory of physics. Scientists are also exploring new applications of general relativity, such as in quantum gravity and the study of dark energy.

5. How can I get involved in the field of general relativity?

If you are interested in specializing in general relativity, you can start by taking courses in mathematics and physics in high school and college. You can also attend conferences and seminars related to the field, join research groups or intern at research institutions. Pursuing a graduate degree in general relativity is also a great way to get involved and make connections in the field.

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