Semiconductor Physics: Definition & Relation to Material Sci

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around defining "Semiconductor Physics" and exploring its relationship with Material Science. Participants express interest in both academic and career perspectives related to these fields.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that Semiconductor Physics is a subset of Material Science, although they note that most Material Science graduates may not specialize in Semiconductor Physics.
  • There is acknowledgment of significant overlap between Semiconductor Physics and Material Science, leading to confusion for those considering studies in these areas.
  • One participant emphasizes that Material Science covers a broad range of materials and properties, while Semiconductor Physics focuses on specific device physics and applications.
  • Participants discuss the importance of understanding both fields for academic and career choices, suggesting that both areas are rapidly advancing with many opportunities.
  • Questions are raised about the participant's background and interests to better guide their exploration of these fields.
  • Links to academic resources and programs are shared, highlighting the interconnectedness of physics, materials science, and electrical engineering.
  • There is a suggestion to consider device fabrication as a potential area of interest.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the overlap between Semiconductor Physics and Material Science, but there is no consensus on how to clearly define the boundaries or implications of this relationship. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to navigate these fields.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the definitions and distinctions between Semiconductor Physics and Material Science, indicating that further exploration and clarification are needed.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals considering a major in Physics or Material Science, as well as those exploring career paths in semiconductor technology or related fields, may find this discussion relevant.

MOKHTAR
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how you can define the term "Semiconductor Physics" and what is the relation between semiconductor Physics and Material Science?
 
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Semiconductor Physics would be a subset of Material Science, no? Although most Material Science graduates will not be specialists in Semiconductor Physics. Which are you most interested in? Is your question more academic-specific or career-specific or science-specific? We can help you better if you ask a more detailed question. :smile:
 
berkeman said:
Semiconductor Physics would be a subset of Material Science, no? Although most Material Science graduates will not be specialists in Semiconductor Physics. Which are you most interested in? Is your question more academic-specific or career-specific or science-specific? We can help you better if you ask a more detailed question. :smile:
Both of academic-specific and career-specific.
 
MOKHTAR said:
Both of academic-specific and career-specific.
Fair enough. I've moved your question to the Academic Guidance forum for now to get you more focused replies.

Your Profile page says that you have completed high school, but not yet entered undergrad. Are you thinking about what major you would like to pursue?

What are your main interests in looking at majors to pursue in undergrad? Material Science is a wonderful and broad field, with lots of possible directions to head in career choices. Likewise, Semiconductor Physics is a very technical field that has practical implications and uses. Both fields are advancing rapidly with lots of opportunities for bright students to contribute in school and in their careers after graduation.

Can you tell us more about your background so far and your interests going forward? What reading have you been doing about these two career paths? I have taken courses in both disciplines in Undergrad and Graduate school, and I enjoyed them both a lot. :smile:
 
I am interesting in studying B.Sc in Physics/Semiconductor Physics, but I am a bit confused since their is enormous overlapping between Semiconductor Physics and Material Science, actually I found difficult to resolve this complication.
 
That is very understandable. There is a lot of overlap between those two courses of study and careers.

So if we start off saying that Material Science is the more general subject, and Semiconductors is a sub-category under Material Science, that is a good starting point.

Material Science encompasses many different types of materials, including semiconductors, conductors, organic materials, crystal structures of all kinds, the strength of materials, viscosity, and lots of other properties of materials that are important to understand well in order to use those materials in the best ways.

Semiconductor Physics encompasses basic device physics involved in the periodic table material combinations that produce semiconductor action, intrinsic versus extrinsic semiconductors, optimizations for various applications and economic advantages (IC geometry considerations, process considerations, etc.), and so on.

Can you post a few of the links that you have been reading about these two academic/career paths? Maybe we can suggest some more reading to help you understand them better. Also, are you considering applying to university? If so, can you say which universities are on your short list? :smile:
 
MOKHTAR said:
Great!

Semiconductor Physics Group
at Universität Leipzig
https://research.uni-leipzig.de/hlp/
Not sure whether it is still in operation, but wasn't there a company near Dresden that produced wavers? Should be not so difficult to figure out and eventually visit them. Not sure how far Leipzig is for you, but Dresden and Leipzig is a matter of an hour.
 
Global foundries
 
  • #10
MOKHTAR said:
Great!

Semiconductor Physics Group
at Universität Leipzig
https://research.uni-leipzig.de/hlp/
(1) That's an example of a physics program. Do you have an example of a materials science program? At major US universities, most (not all) materials programs are combined materials science and engineering (MS&E) programs. To re-emphasize previous info, semiconductor physics is a subset of physics, and semiconductor materials is a subset of materials science and engineering. Semiconductor devices and materials are also covered in many electrical engineering departments. There is considerable overlap between the three; emphasis and approaches, as well as knowledge applicable beyond semiconductors, vary.

(2) Do you have an interest in device fabrication?
 

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