Preparing for UnderGraduate Research

AI Thread Summary
To prepare for undergraduate research starting in 2014, focus on studying undergraduate quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, and classical mechanics, while considering topics in particle physics. Learning Python is recommended as a programming language due to its accessibility and relevance in research. It is crucial to identify and join a research group early to understand their specific needs and weaknesses. Tailoring your studies to fill those gaps will enhance your contribution to the project. Engaging with a research group will provide clarity on the necessary skills and knowledge required for successful participation.
Astrum
Messages
269
Reaction score
5
I'm interested in getting some research under my belt starting during the 2014 academic year.

What should I study over the next year, so I can try and get some research in right away? The obvious ones: Undergrad QM, EM (in the process), Class Mech (doing Morin now, the questions are much better than Taylor), perhaps something in particle physics?

I need to learn a programming language, and it seems like it would be easiest to start off with Python? Any suggestions are welcomed (not trying to start a war between different programming languages).

Any math topics that would be of particular interest?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It really depends on what your group needs. I would try to get attached to a group first, then you will have an idea of what you need to do to complete a project.
 
Agreed, find out what your research is in, and what areas the group is weak on. Then prepare yourself to cover their weaknesses.
 

Thread 'Self Learning Math/Physics'

Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
View full post »

Thread 'Applied Math PhD candidate but I hate group theory'

TL;DR Summary: I want to do a PhD in applied math but I hate group theory, is this a big problem? Hello, I am a second-year math and physics double major with a minor in data science. I just finished group theory (today actually), and it was my least favorite class in all of university so far. It doesn't interest me, and I am also very bad at it compared to other math courses I have done. The other courses I have done are calculus I-III, ODEs, Linear Algebra, and Prob/Stats. Is it a...
View full post »

Similar threads

Other Extra Year of Study for Graduate Physics Research: A Possibility?
Replies
9
Views
2K
Is Spending an Extra Semester in Undergraduate Research Worth It?
Replies
7
Views
2K
Programs Take a 5th year to do more research?
Replies
3
Views
2K
Admissions Applying for PhD despite very weak undergraduate GPA
2
Replies
53
Views
7K
Other How much does one's undergraduate field of research matter?
Replies
10
Views
3K
Programs REU Opportunities for International Students in Theoretical Physics
Replies
2
Views
2K
Admissions Admission into Princeton Grad School
Replies
9
Views
2K
Other Looking for advice about my career....
Replies
26
Views
3K
Admissions Do I have a good shot at CalTech/MIT's graduate program for physics?
Replies
8
Views
5K
Schools Which University should I go to for my undergrad in physics?
2
Replies
82
Views
7K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top